Stresa: Madre & Bella Borromean Islands Boat Trip

Stresa’s Madre & Bella Borromean Islands Boat Trip offers a chance to explore the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. For just $14.14 per person, visitors can embark on a scenic journey across Lake Maggiore, discovering the enchanting botanical gardens and puppet collection of Isola Madre, as well as the opulent Borromean Palace and Italian-style gardens of Isola Bella. With hop-on hop-off access and entrance fees included, this tour promises a day filled with remarkable sights and insights. What lies in store for those who choose to…

Key Points

• A boat trip to the Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore near Stresa, including visits to Isola Madre and Isola Bella.
• Cost of $14.14 per person, valid for one day, with a full refund available up to 24 hours in advance.
• Isola Madre offers enchanting botanical gardens, a puppet collection, and views of Lake Maggiore and the Alps.
• Isola Bella features the Borromean Palace and Italian-style gardens with vibrant flowers, sculptures, and stunning lake views.
• Positive customer ratings with an overall score of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on over 145 reviews.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

Visitors can embark on a boat trip to the Borromean Islands, located on Lake Maggiore near the town of Stresa. The tour costs $14.14 per person and is valid for one day.

Travelers can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour includes a hop-on hop-off boat ticket to Isola Madre and Isola Bella, as well as entrance fees to the Borromean Palaces and gardens.

Passengers should note that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and the meeting point is at the Lake Tours pier, recognizable by a large yellow sail.

Pricing and Inclusions

The boat trip to the Borromean Islands costs $14.14 per person and is valid for one day.

The price includes a hop-on hop-off boat ticket to Isola Madre and Isola Bella, as well as entrance fees to the Borromean Palaces and gardens.

However, there’s a landing fee of €0.50 for each island, payable locally.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and the meeting point is at the Lake Tours pier, recognizable by a large yellow sail.

The ticket is valid from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Isola Madre: Botanical Gardens and Puppet Collection

Isola Madre, the largest of the Borromean Islands, is famous for its enchanting botanical gardens and unique collections.

The island’s lush gardens showcase a diverse array of plants, including the rare Cashmere tree.

Visitors can explore three highlights:

1. Free-living birdlife roaming the gardens

2. The villa’s impressive puppet collection

3. Spectacular views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding Alps

These captivating features make Isola Madre a must-see destination on the Borromean Islands boat tour, offering a glimpse into the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Isola Bella: Borromean Palace and Italian-Style Gardens

Situated adjacent to Isola Madre, Isola Bella is renowned for its Borromean Palace and magnificent Italian-style gardens.

Visitors can explore the palace’s splendid caves and browse the boutique shops on the island. The palace’s lavish interiors and intricate architectural details impress, while the terraced gardens boast vibrant flowers, sculptures, and stunning lake views.

The palace’s splendid caves and boutique shops await visitors, while its lavish interiors and terraced gardens offer breathtaking sights.

Guests can wander through the meticulously landscaped pathways, taking in the serene beauty of this island gem.

With its historical significance and natural splendor, Isola Bella offers a captivating glimpse into the Borromean Islands’ rich cultural heritage.

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Accessibility and Meeting Point

Although the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, the meeting point is easily accessible.

Passengers can locate the Lake Tours pier, easily recognizable by its large yellow sail. The tour is valid from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, allowing flexibility in scheduling.

To reach the meeting point, visitors can:

1. Take a short walk from the Stresa town center.

2. Use public transportation, with the pier just a short distance from the nearest bus stop.

3. Drive and park nearby, with ample parking options available in the area.

Customer Ratings and Feedback

Based on over 145 reviews, the Stresa: Madre & Bella Borromean Islands Boat Trip enjoys an impressive overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Travelers highlight the high quality of the transportation, rating it 4.5/5. Value for money is also strong at 4.3/5.

Customers across different travel groups, including couples, friends, solo travelers, and families, rave about their experiences.

However, the tour may be canceled due to inclement weather, in which case a full refund or date change is available.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

The Stresa: Madre & Bella Borromean Islands Boat Trip allows travelers to book their spot and pay nothing upfront, as it’s a "reserve now & pay later" offering.

This tour also offers a generous cancellation policy – you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The key details on booking and cancellation are:

1. Reserve your spot without paying anything today.

2. Cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.

3. This flexibility makes it easy to plan your Borromean Islands adventure.

Weather Considerations

The tour may be canceled due to inclement weather, so it’s important to check the forecast before your trip.

Be sure to check the weather forecast before your trip, as inclement conditions may lead to tour cancellations.

While the islands are beautiful year-round, extreme conditions like heavy rain, strong winds, or storms could lead to the cancellation of your boat tour.

In the event of cancellation, you’ll receive a full refund or have the option to reschedule.

Be sure to arrive at the meeting point early, as the tour may depart promptly.

Monitor the weather and stay flexible, as the experience is weather-dependent.

This will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to the Borromean Islands.

Common Questions

What Language Is the Tour Guide Commentary Provided In?

The tour guide commentary is provided in the language of the tour participants. Most likely, it is available in multiple languages, such as English, Italian, or other common languages, to accommodate the diverse backgrounds of the travelers.

Are Children and Infants Allowed on the Tour?

Children and infants are allowed on the tour. The tour is suitable for families, though it’s not wheelchair accessible. Guests should check the tour’s accessibility details before booking to ensure it meets their needs.

Is Food And/Or Drinks Included During the Boat Trip?

No, food and drinks are not included in the boat trip. Travelers are responsible for bringing their own refreshments. The tour only covers the boat ticket, entrance fees to the islands, and the landing fee.

Can I Bring My Own Camera and Take Photos on the Islands?

Yes, visitors can bring their own cameras to take photos on the islands. The tour information notes that the islands offer scenic landscapes, gardens, and attractions suitable for photography. Visitors are encouraged to capture the beauty of the Borromean Islands during the boat trip.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

There aren’t any discounts specifically mentioned for seniors or students on this tour. However, travelers should check with the tour provider to see if any discounts are available at the time of booking.

The Sum Up

The Madre & Bella Borromean Islands Boat Trip offers a captivating way to experience the beauty of Stresa. At just $14.14 per person, the tour provides access to the enchanting Isola Madre and Isola Bella, showcasing their lush gardens, historic palaces, and stunning natural scenery. With hop-on hop-off convenience and included entrance fees, it’s an excellent value for a day filled with natural wonders and cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: