The palm-lined town of Stresa is one of the most beautiful in the Italian Lakes, cascading from the hills to the glistening water in a terracotta jumble. Dating back to the 1st century, Stresa is now a town full of splendid villas and magnificent gardens. It has a very attractive lakeside promenade, from where you can see across to the famous Borromean Islands of Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola Superiore dei Pescatori.
Lake Maggiore is home to plenty of opulent palaces and gardens, but Isola Bella’s Palazzo Borromeo is surely at the top of the list. Dating from the 17th century, this incredible ducal palace is best known for its terraced gardens, which rise 10 levels from the lake to form a raised plateau with commanding views. Elsewhere, you’ll find numerous churches, villas and gardens in or around Stresa, as well as an assortment of dining venues.
Add a spot of city sightseeing to your stay with a day in Milan – it's just over an hour away by train or car.
Isola Bella Lakeside View
If you would like to pre-book one of our excursions, please call our Italy Experts on 01293 762410*.
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