Lago Maggiore: Islands, Gardens and Fortresses

Isola Bella lies in Lago Maggiore and was transformed from a barren rock into an architectural and cultural ensemble in the 17th century. Isola Madre offers a different experience: the lush, eight-hectare island lies in the Gulf of Borromeo. Impressive blossoms and brightly coloured birds define its garden landscape. On the lake’s islands, built cultural heritage and botanical diversity come together.

Botanical tours of the plant collections are offered on Isola Madre, led by expert gardeners. If you would like to learn more about the plants, this tour offers a distinctive perspective on the island. Tour details may change.

Fortresses and historic rooms

Rocca di Angera is a remarkably well-preserved medieval fortress with historic rooms, towers and courtyards. The complex also includes a museum and a period-style garden. The medieval garden covers 2,000 square metres and lies between a vineyard and the crenellated walls facing the lake.

Admission to the Rocca includes a guided tour of the historic rooms and a visit to the Doll and Toy Museum and the medieval garden. Check the current admission inclusions before your visit.

The Castelli di Cannero are situated on two rocky islands in Lago Maggiore. In the northern part of the lake, they form a fortified complex with a main fortress and a former prison building. Cannero Walking Tales presents the history of the Castelli in an immersive museum experience that combines technology and tradition. The presentation may evolve.

Gardens and boat connections

The Botanical Gardens of Villa Taranto combine greenhouses with exotic plants, flower-filled avenues, water features and views of Lago Maggiore. Victoria Cruziana is also cultivated in the greenhouses. Check before your visit whether it is on seasonal display. The “VILLA TARANTO” boat stop for services on Lago Maggiore is right in front of the main entrance; check the transport connection for your visit.

The Eremo di Santa Caterina del Sasso can be reached by boat from Arona or Stresa; there are several departures per day. As boat timetables may change seasonally, check the connection for your visit. The access information therefore provides a specific starting point for planning, without implying a particular journey time.

Nature trails and nearby destinations

Nature trails for hiking, mountain biking and horse riding start on the shores of Lago Maggiore. Nearby, the Sacro Monte della SS. Trinità di Ghiffa features a sanctuary, three chapels and a covered Way of the Cross. The nature reserve also includes woodland paths, setting the religious buildings within a forested landscape.

The Villa Pallavicino zoological park, near Lago Maggiore, is home to more than 40 animal species that roam freely there. There is also a neoclassical villa overlooking the lake. Also nearby, visitors can climb the Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo via an internal staircase; a panorama can be seen through the statue’s eyes.

A protected area on Lago Maggiore includes about 30 hectares of reed marsh and narrow strips of shoreline with willows and diverse flora. During bird migration, it is an internationally important stopover for numerous bird species. The wetland and migratory bird stopover thus complement the island gardens and historic sites with a natural area whose distinctive character varies with the season.

Discover more destinations: Emilia-Romagna, Umbria, Liguria, Latium, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Apulia, Campania, Calabria

Back to the main travel overview: Italy.