The Borromean Islands of Bella, Superiore and Madre are one of the main reasons people visit Lake Maggiore. Leger were offering a private escorted visit to Bella & Superiore but preferring to go at our own pace, we decided to be independent and visited the islands on another day using the public boats.

They’re well worth a visit. There’s a palace and gardens on Bella, and Superiore has narrow streets and lovely lake views. We thoroughly enjoyed our slow paced exploring. 

Isola Madre is largely gardens and as we’re planning to visit Villa Taranto this time, we’re saving Madre for our return to Maggiore in 2026.