The tiny yet opulent islands with amazing gardens in the Italian Lakes
While you might know and love Lake Como, well-acquainted with its charming towns and its magnificent gardens, it's quite possible that you've never heard of the Borromean Islands. This enchanting archipelago is set on the hypnotically beautiful waters of Lake Maggiore, consisting of three small islands and two even smaller islets: Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Madre, plus Isola San Giovanni and the Rock of Malghera.
The Borromean Islands are best known for their glorious gardens, and one of the best ways to discover them is by jetting off on Good Housekeeping's escorted eight-day tour. During this unique and unforgettable trip, you'll stay in two lakefront hotels and discover the exquisite gardens of Isolas Bella, Madre and Pescatori with horticultural expert Christine Walkden, as well as taking in the most beautiful gardens and villas on Lake Como.
EXPLORE THE BORROMEAN ISLANDS WITH GH
Though they fly elegantly under the radar on the international travel scene, somewhat eclipsed by Lake Como, Lake Lugano and Lake Orta, the Borromean Islands have in fact drawn fascinated visitors for centuries, including Ernest Hemingway and members of the British royal family. It was back in the 14th century that these beautiful islands were transformed with grand, ornate residences and blooming gardens by their owners, the Borromeos.
To this day, this prestigious family from Florence still owns Isolas Bella and Madre. Known as the 'sisters', these two are the best known of the Borromean Islands, famous for their grand palazzos and lush landscaped gardens.
Reportedly, it took almost 400 hundred years – and a fleet of architects, painters and engineers – to transform Isola Bella from a humble, barely inhabited island into a treasure trove of Baroque and horticultural delights. The Teatro Massimo is the most famous monument among its sprawling gardens, filled with statues and fountains that appear amid the flourishing plants of 10 artfully integrated terraces, crowned with a rising statue of a unicorn.
White peacocks roam around and rare flowers and plants abound in the Italianate garden, including a centuries-old camphor tree, snowdrop-like Halesia diptera and headily perfumed sweet Osmanthus. And there's just as much intrigue inside Palazzo Borromeo, where 20 rooms of mosaics and masterpieces (from Raphael to Titian) await visitors.
You can visit Isola Bella on GH's tour of the Borromean Islands, with the added bonus of being joined by gardening expert Christine Walkden, who will give an exclusive talk and join you for a day exploring. Another stop on the tour is Isola Madre, a magical island with further sprawling ornamental gardens, manicured lawns and expertly tended trees that cover eight hectares, making this the largest of the Borromean Islands.
Here in this tropical-style wonderland, you'll find pergolas covered in ancient wisteria, immense collections of citrus trees and the colourful spectacle of azaleas, rhododendrons and camellias in flower. The island's palazzo is sumptuously furnished with historic pieces from the Borromeo dynasty, with beautiful rooms filled with scenic tapestries, centuries-old portraits and other fascinating objets.
The final stop on GH's magical Borromean Island tour is Isola dei Pescatori, which means 'fishermen's island' and is the only one to be permanently inhabited, with a population of just over 50. Fishing is still a large part of life here, and when you explore the narrow lanes and archetypal two-storey houses, you might notice long balconies that were traditionally used for drying fish.
The spire of the Church of San Vittore stands out above the roofs of houses, and inside you'll find a 16th century fresco of Sant’Agata along with some 17th century art. The shore is dotted with classic fishing boats and as you might imagine, there are a number of renowned restaurants here that specialise in freshly caught fish, which makes for a meal to remember.
The islet of San Giovanni and its palazzo are not open to visitors, but you can gaze upon it during your tour of the larger Borromean Islands. Similarly, Malghera Rock is a tiny, uninhabited islet, which is home to a small beach and plenty of wild birds.
All in all, the Borromean Islands should be firmly on your travel bucket list, filled with other-worldly delights and timeless sights that you'll remember forever.
EXPLORE THE BORROMEAN ISLANDS WITH GH
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