In the middle of Lago Maggiore there are a cluster of islands that are still owned by the Borromean Family. They are famous for their history and incredible gardens and their celebrated white peacocks.
The islands are accessible via ferry from several ports around the lake and opened between March and October. They are very crowded on weekends and during peak tourist seasons. Isola Bela is free to walk around but you have to purchase tickets to visit the Palace and Gardens. This is a must see! I wish somebody had told me to get tickets online for Isola Madre. You must pay to enter the island. There is a ticket booth just as you get off the ferry. We waited for close to an hour on a Sunday in May. It was well worth the wait.
Isola Bela
Isola Madre
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