Borromean Islands from Stresa

At 212 meters above sea level and dotted with 11 islands, Lake Maggiore reveals a refined microcosm from Stresa: Isola Bella with its 17th‑century Palazzo Borromeo and tiered gardens patrolled by white peacocks, and—just 700 meters away—Isola dei Pescatori, a fishing hamlet whose 18th‑century street grid still frames trattorie serving fritto misto by the quay. Boats shuttle between islands while the Lepontine Alps and the Mottarone ridge, 13 km off, shape the horizon.

Collected from your Milan hotel, you cruise to Stresa in about 1 h 15 in a Mercedes van reserved for the day: coffee stop on the A8 if you wish, chilled water, flexible timing. On arrival, your driver handles boat tickets, locks in a Palazzo Borromeo time slot, then steps back while you savor lake perch risotto on Isola dei Pescatori—he takes care of waiting. Back in Milan, our private chauffeur knows the fast exits off the Tangenziale and meets you at the dock for a smooth return, even if you extend time on Isola Madre.