Italian Lakes – Gardens & Villas of Lakes Como & Maggiore

Isola Bella

Isola Bella

A picturesque island in Lake Maggiore offers stunning baroque architecture, lush terraced gardens with exotic plants, peacocks, and breathtaking lake views.
Isola Bella is a picturesque island situated in Lake Maggiore, part of the Borromean Islands in northern Italy. Known for its stunning baroque architecture and lush gardens, the island is dominated by the grand Palazzo Borromeo, a 17th-century palace that showcases opulent interiors and an impressive art collection. The terraced gardens are a highlight, featuring ornate statues, exotic plants, and peacocks roaming freely, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding lake and mountains. Historically, the island was transformed from a rocky crag into a lavish retreat by the Borromeo family, who have owned it since the 16th century, making it a testament to their wealth and influence.