Isola Bella Botanical Garden hotels in Verbania, Italy

Along with the other Borromean islands, Isola Bella is one of the jewels of Lake Maggiore. The island is tiny – less than half-a-mile – but it has one of the most beautiful gardens in northern Italy.

Visiting Isola Bella

Isola Bella was just a barren rock until it was transformed into a luxurious playground by the Borromeo family in the 17th century. They built a sumptuous villa with an astonishing ten tiers of elaborately landscaped gardens. The Baroque palace is the stuff of dreams, with ornate interiors and cobbled shell grottoes.

You can take guided tours of the villa and the gardens, or you can just wander on your own to take in all the splendour. It’s one of the venues for Stresa’s annual music festival, and is a suitably magical setting for classical concerts. It’s easy to reach thanks to regular ferries from Stresa.

What to See near Isola Bella

Lose yourself in the old-world elegance of Stresa, which has an alluring waterfront promenade lined with cafe terraces. The views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains are captivating. When the weather gets warm, head to the beaches south of the town.

The other Borromean islands are also served by regular ferries. Not to be outdone by Isola Bella, Isola Madre has an opulent villa and extravagant gardens, too, as well as an enchanting doll museum. Isola Superiore – also called Isola dei Pescatori – is relatively low key in comparison. Although it lacks any grandiose palaces, its village is a charming place for a relaxing stroll. Ernest Hemingway had called it his favourite island.

Where to Stay near Isola Bella

Stresa’s grand hotels are full of romance, as many are on the lake and have restaurant terraces with panoramic views. There’s also the option of staying on Isola Superiore, as well as the town of Verbania just north of Stresa, which also has ferry terminals for Lake Maggiore boat trips. Choose a stately spa hotel with an outdoor pool, or an intimate lodging in the historic centre of Verbania and its surrounding villages for your stay near Isola Bella Botanical Garden.