Meet in Stresa, the splendid “pearl of Lake Maggiore,” where your skipper will welcome you aboard for an unforgettable day. At 10:15 am or 11:15 am, set off on a relaxing and scenic shared boat transfer (hop-on/hop-off service) across the shimmering waters of the lake, offering breathtaking views over the Borromean Gulf and its enchanting islands.
Your first stop will be Isola Madre, the largest of the Borromean Islands, a true Eden covered by a lush botanical garden where rare plants and exotic flowers create a vibrant tapestry of colors and scents. Graceful peacocks, lively parrots, and curious pheasants roam freely, adding to the fairytale atmosphere.
Continue to the picturesque Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen’s Island), with its narrow lanes and houses set right on the water, where time seems to have stood still. Between artisan workshops and small market stalls, you’ll soak up the authentic soul of the lake. Lunch is at leisure in one of the island’s typical restaurants, serving local specialties with spectacular lake views.
The final stop is the magnificent Isola Bella, a Baroque jewel created between the 16th and 17th centuries by the Borromeo family. The grand palace, dedicated by Carlo III to his wife Isabella D’Adda, houses elegant historic rooms of rare beauty. Outside, the Italian-style gardens with ten terraced levels delight the eye with sparkling fountains, theatrical statues, and perfect architectural perspectives, surrounded by stunning seasonal blooms.
Return to Stresa in the afternoon, bringing to a close a day suspended between nature, art, and timeless charm.