Italy 2026 - Day 3, Stresa Lago Maggiore
Day 3 | Monday, 7 September 2026
Weather: Beautiful blue skies, a few passing clouds and plenty of sunshine. Occasionally hot enough to remind us that summer was not quite over!
Three islands, three completely different personalities. That was our plan for the day.
Less than an hour's drive from Orta San Giulio brought us to Stresa, where we hopped on a boat to explore the beautiful Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore. With the mountains rising behind the lake and little islands appearing on the horizon, even the boat rides were a treat.
Our first stop was Isola Bella, and what a grand introduction! The magnificent Palazzo Borromeo was filled with lavish rooms, glittering chandeliers, elaborate furnishings, paintings and tapestries. Every room seemed determined to outdo the previous one.
But the real showstopper was outside. The spectacular Italian Baroque gardens rose in terraces, with statues, fountains, perfectly trimmed hedges and breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore. Even the white peacocks seemed to know they belonged somewhere rather special. We certainly took enough photographs to justify their confidence!
Next was Isola dei Pescatori, the fishermen's island. What a lovely contrast! Gone were the palatial rooms and manicured gardens, replaced by narrow cobbled lanes, rustic houses, little shops and cosy restaurants. Much more intimate and down to earth. We wandered around, soaking up the atmosphere and enjoying a slower pace.
Our final stop was Isola Madre, the largest of the three islands. This one felt like stepping into a peaceful botanical paradise. Beautiful gardens, towering old trees, exotic plants and peacocks roaming freely across the lawns. We even spotted a white peacock relaxing on the grass, completely unbothered by the visitors.
The palace here was lovely too, but it was the gardens and their tranquillity that stayed with me. After the grandeur of Isola Bella and the rustic charm of Isola dei Pescatori, Isola Madre offered a wonderfully relaxing finale.
By the time we finished, our feet were tired, our cameras had worked overtime and we had certainly enjoyed our fair share of sunshine.
Three islands on the same lake, yet each had its own story to tell. A full day of island hopping, beautiful scenery and wonderful company.
