A Special Late Afternoon Tour of Borromean Islands Isola Bella

Isola Bella, the jewel of the Borromean Islands, offers a captivating late afternoon tour that allows visitors to explore its stunning Baroque palace and enchanting Italian gardens. Led by an experienced guide, this exclusive experience avoids the crowds and provides breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore from the terraced landscapes adorned with peacocks. For those seeking a unique and intimate encounter with the island’s timeless allure, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

Key Points

1. A private guided tour of Isola Bella that showcases the grand 17th-century Baroque palace, exquisite Italian-style gardens, and breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore.

2. Opportunity to explore the charming fishing village of Isola dei Pescatori, with its colorful houses, quaint shops, and authentic Italian culture.

3. Flexible tour schedule that starts at 4:00 PM to avoid larger crowds and provide a more personalized experience.

4. Pricing details, including a tour cost of $291.51 per group (up to 5 people) and optional services like private boat cruises and whisper systems.

5. Tour logistics, such as the meeting point, accessibility, and the expertise of the local guide, Micaela Lucini.

Exploring the Borromean Islands

Why visit the captivating Borromean Islands? These picturesque islands on Lake Maggiore offer a unique and enchanting experience.

Explore the grand Baroque palace on Isola Bella, with its stunning architecture and lush Italian gardens filled with peacocks.

Wander through the charming streets of Isola dei Pescatori, a traditional fishing village frozen in time.

Enjoy a private guided tour to avoid the crowds and soak in the serene beauty of these islands.

Opt for a private boat cruise on the shimmering lake for an even more immersive experience.

Prepare to be captivated by the Borromean Islands’ timeless allure.

Isola Bella: A Baroque Masterpiece

At the heart of the captivating Borromean Islands stands the magnificent Isola Bella, a Baroque masterpiece that captivates visitors with its grandeur.

Home to a grand palace built in the 17th century, the island showcases exquisite Italian-style gardens adorned with peacocks.

Guests can explore the lavish halls and rooms of the palace, marveling at the intricate frescoes, chandeliers, and lavish furnishings.

The lush gardens, terraced in a pyramid shape, offer breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore.

This late afternoon tour provides an opportunity to experience the island’s beauty while avoiding the crowds of the day.

Lush Italian Gardens and Peacocks

Visitors to Isola Bella are captivated by the lush Italian gardens that adorn the island’s terraced landscape.

These verdant gardens feature an array of colorful flowers, meticulously trimmed hedges, and towering cypress trees. The centerpiece is a stunning 17th-century Baroque palace, which serves as the backdrop for the impeccably maintained gardens.

Peacocks roam freely, adding to the serene and picturesque ambiance. Pathways wind through the gardens, allowing visitors to explore the diverse plant life and take in the panoramic views of Lake Maggiore.

The gardens are a true testament to the island’s rich history and natural beauty.

Picturesque Isola Dei Pescatori

The picturesque Isola dei Pescatori, also known as Fishermen’s Island, offers a charming respite from the grand Baroque splendor of Isola Bella. Visitors can stroll through the island’s narrow, winding streets, lined with colorful houses and quaint shops. The tranquil atmosphere and traditional fishing village ambiance provide a glimpse into the local way of life.

Sights	Experiences	Highlights
Charming houses	Sampling local cuisine	Peaceful atmosphere
Quaint shops	Interacting with residents	Traditional architecture
Narrow streets	Exploring the harbor	Authentic Italian culture
Historic churches	Witnessing fishing activities	Scenic views of Lake Maggiore

This intimate island provides a serene and authentic counterpoint to the grandeur of Isola Bella, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the traditional life of the Borromean Islands.

Pricing and Ticket Information

Although the tour of the Borromean Islands can be priced at $291.51 per group (up to 5 people), there are additional costs visitors should be aware of.

Entrance to Isola Bella’s palace requires a €23 per person fee. For groups larger than 5, a whisper system is available for €3 per person.

Plus, a private boat service is offered for €180, payable on the day.

The tour is not wheelchair accessible but is located near public transportation. A moderate level of physical fitness is required, and the tour has a non-refundable cancellation policy.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The meeting point for the tour is located at 28838 Stresa, Province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, Italy, and the tour ends at the same location.

The tour starts at 4:00 PM, allowing visitors to explore the Borromean Islands in the late afternoon and avoid the larger crowds.

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it is near public transportation. Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness.

The tour operator, Micaela Lucini, provides a non-refundable cancellation policy, and visitors will receive confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Moderate Physical Fitness Required

Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness for this tour. Much of the experience involves walking on uneven terrain and climbing steps, particularly on the islands.

While the pace is leisurely, visitors must be able to comfortably traverse cobblestone streets and navigate uphill pathways. The tour is not recommended for those with mobility issues or physical limitations.

A good degree of stamina is required to fully enjoy exploring the palaces, gardens, and charming fishing village on Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori. Travelers should wear appropriate shoes and be prepared for some moderate physical activity.

Operated by Micaela Lucini

This tour is operated by Micaela Lucini, an experienced local guide with a deep passion for the Borromean Islands. Her extensive knowledge of the region and ability to provide personalized attention to guests make her an ideal choice for this excursion.

Qualification	Experience
Tour Guide License	8+ years
Multilingual	Italian, English, French
Borromean Islands Expert	Lifetime resident

Micaela’s commitment to excellence ensures guests receive a memorable and enriching experience on the Borromean Islands. Her attention to detail and focus on customer satisfaction have earned her consistently positive reviews from previous tour participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour focuses on exploring the historic Borromean islands and visiting the grand Baroque palace and gardens, which are not suitable environments for animals. The tour operator does not accommodate pets.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no formal dress code for this tour. However, visitors are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather and outdoor activities. Formal attire is not required.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Palace?

Visitors are generally permitted to take photographs inside the palace on Isola Bella, though some restrictions may apply. It is recommended to check with the tour guide or staff upon arrival for any specific photography guidelines.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. The tour is a set itinerary and timing, providing a late afternoon exploration of the Borromean islands. Any additional time would need to be arranged separately.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. The price of €23 per person for entrance to Isola Bella’s palace applies to all visitors, regardless of age or student status.

The Sum Up

Discover the enchanting beauty of Isola Bella during a late afternoon tour led by experienced guide Micaela Lucini. Explore the 17th-century Baroque palace and its exquisite Italian-style gardens, adorned with peacocks, while enjoying breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore. This unique tour allows you to avoid the crowds and learn about the timeless allure of the Borromean Islands.