Lake Maggiore straddles both Italy and Switzerland, it offers a peaceful and serene location is known as the ‘aristocrat of the Italian lakes’. 
A glacial basin fed by rivers on the Italian side of the Alps and enjoys a mild Mediterranean micro-climate where beautiful gardens and exotic plants flourish. Visit some of these glorious green lands, many of them attached to lavish villas.

Stresa is, without doubt, the jewel of the lake, this is most evident in the string of belle-époque confections along the waterfront, a legacy of the town’s easy access from Milan, which has made it a favourite for artists and writers since the late 19th century.
Its stunning lakeside promenade overlooking the beautiful Borromean islands and charismatic historic centre provides a perfect base. 
This is most evident in the string of belle-époque confections along the waterfront, a legacy of the town’s easy access from Milan, which has made it a favourite for artists and writers since the late 19th century.

The Borromean Islands are located just offshore from the centre of Stresa. Take a boat trip out to Isola Bella, which houses a beautiful stately home and elegant Italianate gardens, and Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen’s Island), the only island which is currently inhabited.
The islands take their name from the aristocratic Borromean family, who took ownership of the land in the 16th and 17th centuries. Only the best architects and gardeners were called on by the famous members of the family. The islands of Bella and Madre were transformed into grand, luxurious residences, while the third island, named “dei Pescatori” after its age-old fishing community, was left to continue its traditional way of life.