The Borromean islands form the archipelago in the centre of the Borromeo Gulf, all easily reachable by means of an efficient public navigation service or by means of the characteristic “taxi boats”.

The Isola Bella, with its Borromeo Palace (XVII century) surprises those arriving from the lake for its majestic baroque setting. The island is a place of splendor thanks to the recurrent blooming and the priceless architectural treasures that blends into a wonderful microcosm. Since when it was transformed from barren rock to a blooming garden, the island appears as a galleon floating on the blue waters of the Lago Maggiore.
Its Italian garden with a baroque taste spreads on parterres and terraces placed at different heights and sprinkled with statues, obelisks, ageless stone stairs and balustrades. This results in an impressive view, displaying the power and magnificence of the noble house.

The Isola dei Pescatori is a picturesque village inhabited by a small community that still make a living by fishing. A maze of narrow alleys will lead the visitor to discover the typical restaurants and the traditional open-air market.

The last island, the Isola Madre, is a botanical garden on water, abounding in rare plants, exotic flowers and free-roaming animals. The favourable microclimate has created on the island the enchantment of a tropical green house. Of great interest is the visit to the Palace (XVI century) where settings of the past time have been reconstructed and where paintings and marionette theatres are on display.