Forming Lago Maggiore’s most beautiful corner, the Borromean Islands (Isole Borromee) are named after the wealthy family that created their own idyllic paradise here back in the 16th century. Three of the four islands – Bella, Madre and Isola dei Pescatori – can all be visited, but if time is limited focus on Isola Bella, with a grand palazzo dating to the 17th century.
Palazzo Borromeo
Presiding over 10 tiers of spectacular terraced gardens roamed by peacocks, this baroque palace is arguably Lago Maggiore's finest Palazzo Borromeo (isoleborromee.it; adult/child €21/12). The gloriously decorated halls are filled with artwork, which has dazzled many notable visitors over the years: kings and queens, artists and composers, and giants of literature. The trove of masterpieces includes works by Rubens, Titian and Van Dyck, along with Flemish tapestries and sculptures by Antonio Canova.
The garden overflows with exotic flowers and plants, such as a centuries-old camphor tree and giant rhubarb plants with plate-sized leaves. There are also white peacocks, whose fanned feathers resemble bridal gowns as they strut about the manicured lawns.
Palazzo Madre
The closest of the three islands to Verbania, Isola Madre is entirely taken up by the Palazzo Madre (isoleborromee.it; adult/child €18/10.50) and the lovely gardens that surround it. The 16th- to 18th-century palazzo is a wonderfully decadent structure crammed full of all manner of antique furnishings and adornments.
Outside the palazzo, the English-style botanic gardens are dazzling with colorful azaleas, rhododendrons, camellias, eucalypts, banana trees, hibiscus, fruit orchards, an olive grove and much more.
