Isola Madre: The Secret Garden of Lake Maggiore

Often overshadowed by its more famous sister, Isola Bella, the serene and lush Isola Madre is the largest of the Borromean Islands and a true haven of peace and botanical beauty. Floating in the calm waters of Lake Maggiore, this island is a dream for garden lovers, history buffs, and anyone looking for a quieter, less crowded escape in northern Italy. 🌿 A Botanical Wonderland Isola Madre is renowned for its exotic gardens, considered among the most beautiful in Italy. Originally planted in the 16th century and transformed into an English-style botanical park in the 1800s, the gardens are home to: • Rare plants and ancient trees: Camellias, rhododendrons, magnolias, azaleas, and century-old cypress trees. • Peacocks and exotic birds: White peacocks, golden pheasants, and parrots roam freely among the trees. • Romantic pathways and shaded corners ideal for a slow, peaceful stroll. 🏛️ The Palazzo Borromeo At the heart of the island lies the 16th-century Palazzo Borromeo, a refined summer residence once used by the noble Borromeo family. Highlights include: • Elegant frescoed rooms and antique furniture. • A unique puppet theater collection with 19th-century marionettes and miniature sets. • A peaceful loggia overlooking the gardens and lake. 🛥️ How to Get There Isola Madre is only accessible by boat: • Ferries run frequently from Stresa, Baveno, or Verbania (especially from spring to autumn). • It’s often included in Borromean Islands tours, together with Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori. 📅 When to Visit • Best time: April to June, when the gardens are in full bloom. • Season: The island is open to the public from late March to late October. • Early mornings or late afternoons are quieter and offer great photo light. 🍴 Dining & Nearby Tips While Isola Madre doesn’t have restaurants like Isola dei Pescatori, you can: • Enjoy a snack or espresso at the small café near the entrance. • Plan lunch in Stresa or Isola dei Pescatori, just a short ferry ride away. Combine your visit with: • A stop at Isola Bella for baroque art and gardens. • A stroll along the Stresa lakeside promenade. • A ride up to Mottarone Mountain for stunning lake views. 🌟 Why Visit Isola Madre? • Less crowded and more tranquil than Isola Bella • A paradise for garden and nature lovers • Rich with history, but without the tourist buzz • Ideal for romantic getaways, slow travel, and botanical photography Final Thought 💭 Isola Madre offers a moment of stillness in a world that moves too fast. It’s not about checking off sights — it’s about breathing deeply, walking slowly, and soaking in the beauty of nature and time. If you’re looking for the soul of Lake Maggiore, you might just find it here. #mediterranean