Isola Madre
Isola Madre: A tranquil island sanctuary on Lake Maggiore, famed for its breathtaking botanical gardens and historic palace.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak blooms, fewer crowds
Isola Madre
Best Time
Peak blooms, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Isola Madre: A tranquil island sanctuary on Lake Maggiore, famed for its breathtaking botanical gardens and historic palace.
"A garden straight out of a fairytale, with peacocks strutting freely!"
🎯 Arrive early for peace
Beat the crowds by taking the first ferry. Enjoy the gardens and palace in quiet serenity.
🎟️ Book ferry tickets ahead
Save time by purchasing your Isola Madre ferry tickets online or at the dock in advance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Enchanting Botanical Gardens
The entire island
Wander through a world of exotic plants, ancient trees, and vibrant blooms. Spot peacocks strutting freely!
Palazzo Borromeo
Central palace
Explore the historic palace with its opulent rooms, antique furnishings, and impressive art collection.
The Majestic Japanese Cypress
Gardens
Marvel at the ancient, sprawling Japanese cypress, a truly breathtaking specimen in the gardens.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Tranquility
Island Hopping Logistics
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive early for peace
Beat the crowds by taking the first ferry. Enjoy the gardens and palace in quiet serenity.
🎟️ Book ferry tickets ahead
Save time by purchasing your Isola Madre ferry tickets online or at the dock in advance.
👟 Comfortable walking shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking through the gardens, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Peacock photo ops
Keep an eye out for the resident peacocks; they often pose for photos! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive early for peace
Beat the crowds by taking the first ferry. Enjoy the gardens and palace in quiet serenity.
🎟️ Book ferry tickets ahead
Save time by purchasing your Isola Madre ferry tickets online or at the dock in advance.
👟 Comfortable walking shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking through the gardens, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Peacock photo ops
Keep an eye out for the resident peacocks; they often pose for photos! :camerawithflash:
💧 Bring water & snacks
While there's a cafe, having your own refreshments is handy for exploring the gardens. :water_wave:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Isola Madre is widely praised for its stunning botanical gardens and the serene atmosphere created by its lush greenery and roaming peacocks. Visitors appreciate the historical charm of the Palazzo Borromeo and the tranquil escape it offers from busier tourist spots. While the gardens are the main draw, some find the palace interiors less captivating than expected.
"Isola Madre, part of the Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore, is celebrated for its lush botanical gardens and charming historic villas. The island is home to the elegant Palazzo Borromeo, which features beautifully decorated interiors and a rich collection of art and antiques. The expansive gardens are a highlight, boasting exotic plants, vibrant flowers, and even peacocks roaming freely. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks through the serene pathways while taking in stunning views of the lake. Isola Madre offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring the region."
E Scott Parks
"Isola Madre is absolutely stunning and worth visiting. It offers a peaceful atmosphere with its historic palace, beautiful gardens full of rare plants and Indian peacocks. The experience was relaxing and enjoyable, perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. Highly recommended, especially in the morning for the best views and weather."
our_discoveries5
"It was the first island that we went to in our day-trip. The weather was nice and the environment was really pleasant.
The view was really nice and the air was fresh. It is a small island and it takes you little time to run through all the island. The gardens were pretty nice and the birds and peacocks gave a nice touch to it. The only thing that was a bit of a disappointment was the palace, which was kind of meh (not that interesting). We later sat down and sunbathed while chit-chatting, a good company makes everything much better :)"
ZiYing Wang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach Isola Madre is by ferry from towns like Stresa, Baveno, or Pallanza on Lake Maggiore. Ferries run regularly, and you can purchase tickets at the port. Consider a multi-island pass if you plan to visit other Borromean Islands.
Stresa is a popular and convenient departure point for ferries to Isola Madre, offering frequent services.
Yes, ferries operate directly to Isola Madre from various lakeside towns. Check local schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The ferry ride duration varies depending on your departure point, but it's generally a short and scenic journey, typically around 10-20 minutes from Stresa.
Most lakeside towns with ferry ports are accessible by local buses or trains, making it easy to reach your departure point for Isola Madre.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for Isola Madre can vary, but typically include access to the botanical gardens and palace. It's advisable to check the official Borromeo website for current Isola Madre tickets pricing and potential package deals.
You can purchase Isola Madre tickets online through the official Borromeo website or directly at the ticket offices located at the ferry ports.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for the Isola Madre botanical gardens and the palace. This fee covers access to both attractions.
Often, combined tickets are available that allow access to multiple Borromean Islands, including Isola Madre, Isola Bella, and Isola dei Pescatori. This can be a cost-effective option.
Opening hours for Isola Madre typically vary by season. It's best to consult the official Borromeo website for the most accurate and up-to-date opening times.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the Isola Madre gardens and public areas of the palace. However, flash photography might be restricted inside certain rooms of the palace to protect the artifacts.
The botanical gardens offer countless picturesque spots, especially with the peacocks and diverse flora. The views of Lake Maggiore from the island's edge are also stunning.
Absolutely! The white peacocks are a highlight and are quite accustomed to visitors, making them excellent subjects for photos.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in protected natural areas and around historical sites like Isola Madre to ensure the safety and tranquility of visitors and the environment.
A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a dedicated camera, is ideal. Consider a lens that can capture both wide-angle garden landscapes and closer shots of the flora and fauna.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The main activities on Isola Madre are exploring the magnificent botanical gardens and touring the historic Palazzo Borromeo. It's a place for leisurely walks and enjoying the natural beauty.
A typical visit to Isola Madre can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on how much time you spend admiring the gardens and the palace interiors.
Yes, there is a cafe on Isola Madre where you can get refreshments and light snacks. It's a pleasant spot to relax amidst the gardens.
Yes, children often enjoy the open spaces of the gardens and the presence of peacocks. The palace might be less engaging for very young children.
While both are Borromean Islands, Isola Madre is primarily known for its extensive, tranquil botanical gardens and a less crowded atmosphere compared to the more elaborate Baroque gardens of Isola Bella.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The peacocks are quite used to people, making for fun and memorable photo opportunities. While the palace might hold less interest for very young children, the gardens offer enough natural wonder to keep them engaged. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as options on the island are limited to a cafe. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
The Palazzo Borromeo offers a touch of history and culture without being overwhelming. Arriving early in the morning or on a weekday can ensure a more intimate experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the serene beauty of the island. 🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Garden Lovers
+1 Spend hours wandering the pathways, discovering unique species, and enjoying the meticulously maintained landscapes. The chance to see peacocks roaming freely adds an extra layer of natural wonder to the experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Isola Madre's Botanical Gardens
+1The gardens are meticulously maintained, offering a serene and peaceful escape. Key highlights include the imposing Japanese cypress, a specimen of immense age and scale, and the diverse collection of camellias and azaleas that burst into color during spring. The layout encourages leisurely exploration, allowing visitors to discover hidden corners and enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore that frame the lush greenery.
+1Many visitors find the gardens to be the primary draw of Isola Madre, offering a tranquil contrast to the more bustling Isola Bella. The emphasis here is on natural beauty and the quiet enjoyment of a meticulously curated landscape. It’s a place where one can truly connect with nature and appreciate the artistry of landscape design.
Exploring the Palazzo Borromeo
Visitors can explore various rooms, each with its own character and story. A particular highlight is the Hall of the Ten Rooms, which showcases a remarkable collection of marionettes and miniature theatrical sets, offering a unique and whimsical insight into aristocratic pastimes. This collection is often cited as a surprising and delightful discovery for many visitors.
While some reviews suggest the palace might be 'meh' compared to the gardens, it's important to appreciate it as a historical residence rather than a grand museum. It provides a more intimate and personal connection to the Borromeo family's heritage and complements the natural beauty of the island.
The Isola Madre Ferry Experience
When purchasing Isola Madre tickets, consider multi-island passes. These passes often provide access to Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of the Borromean Islands. Booking tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season, is highly recommended to avoid long queues and ensure your preferred departure time.
The ferry ride itself is a scenic prelude to the island's beauty. As you approach Isola Madre, the lush greenery of its gardens becomes increasingly apparent, building anticipation for the tranquil escape that awaits. The journey is typically short, making it easy to incorporate into a day trip.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit