The Borromean Islands
Isola Bella

Isola Bella is undoubtedly the most famous of the Borromean Islands and when you see it today you can hardly imagine it as the tiny fishing village it once was. The Palace itself is full of ornate rooms which remind you of a past full of grand receptions and sumptuous feasts. The most curious part of the Palace are the grottoes; the walls are adorned with a mosaic of shells and pebbles and are a welcome retreat on a hot day!! After visiting the Palace, you exit into the magnificent gardens which are made up of no less than 10 terraces which slope down towards the lake. As well as the rare and exotic plants which provide the gardens with colour from March to October, there are interesting features such as the open-air theatre and the "Piano della Canfora" which houses a 150 year old laurel tree.

Isola Madre

Isola Madre is the largest of the Borromean Islands and boasts a tranquil and enchanted atmosphere. Its gardens are a pleasure to explore: filled with azaleas, camellias, rhododendrons, ancient wisteria they are truly beautiful. The gardens are also home to the largest Cashmere Cyprus in Europe and pheasants and peacocks roam freely around. The 16th century villa houses a collection of period rooms, dolls and porcelain. There is also an exhibition of small puppet theatres dating back to the 17th and 19th centuries. Read about one of our visits to Isola Madre on our blog

Isola Pescatori

In contrast to the other Islands, Isola Pescatori (also known as Isola Superiore) has retained it's original charm. The Island has remained a quaint, picturesque fishing village with the traditional fishing boats anchored along the shore. The ancient Church of S. Vittore is definitely worth a visit whilst you are there, as are the artists house and the fishermen's museum. Then there is nothing better than taking a seat in one of the many excellent fish restaurants for lunch or dinner.

Opening Times Isola Bella and Isola Madre are open every day (including public holidays) from 19/03/21 - 01/11/21.
Opening times 19/03/21 - 31/03/21 and 01/10/21 - 22/10/21 from 09.00 - 16.00 last entry (Palace closes 16.30, garden closes 17.00)
Opening times 01/04/21 - 30/09/21 from 09.00 - 17.30 last entry (Palace closes 18.00, garden closes 18.30)
Opening times 23/10/21 - 01/11/21 from 09.00 - 15.30 last entry (Palace closes 16.00, garden closes 16.30)
Prices Isola Bella: Adults €18 and children 6-15 years €11 (under 6's and RHS members free).
Isola Madre: Adults €15 and children 6-15 years €8.50 (under 6's and RHS members free).
Special Offers Isola Bella + Isola Madre: joint ticket adults €25 and children 6-15 years €13 (under 6's and RHS members free). Can be used on one day or any two days
Families: 2 adults + 2 children, the second child is free.
Isola Pescatori Isola Pescatori is a village so is accessible all year round and has no entrance fee. Please note that out of season you will find very few, if any, restaurants and bars open.
Optional App audio guide for Isola Bella and Isola Madre €2.99
Covid19 Rules Entry to the palaces and gardens on Isola Bella and Isola Madre will be regulated according to the flow of people. Entry will not be permitted to anyone with a temperature of over 37.5° or to anyone who has been in contact with an infected person within the last 14 days. It is obligatory to wear a face mask and there are hand gel dispensers throughout the properrties and in the toilets. Always keep at least 1 metre distance from other visitors and staff.