Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Palazzo Madre
The fabulous
Palazzo Madre
(adult/reduced €10/5.50)
is
the island of Madre. White
peacocks with bristling feathers resembling extravagant bridal gowns strut around
English-style gardens that easily rival those of Isola Bella, although they retain a
more romantic atmosphere. Inside the 16th- to 18th-century palace you'll find the
Countess Borromeo's doll collection and a neoclassical puppet theatre care of a La
Scala set designer, complete with a cast of devilish marionettes.
Isola Superiore
Tiny 'Fisherman's Island' retains much of its original fishing village atmosphere,
and remains a picturesque spot for lunch. Apart from an 11th-century apse and a
16th-century fresco in the Chiesa di San Vittore, there isn't anything to see; so take
a seat at one of the portside restaurants and order some grilled lemon perch or
char and a glass of Soave.
Top Tips
›
Give yourself at least half a day to enjoy each palace.
›
To access the Palazzo Borromeo's fine art collection you need to purchase a separ-
ate ticket for the Galleria dei Quadri (€4).
›
Don't miss the 3000-year-old fossilised boat in the grotto of Palazzo Borromeo.
Take a Break
There's only one cafe on Isola Madre for drinks and snacks. For authentic lake cook-
0323 3 00 43; meals €30-35;
Tue-Sun
Mar-Oct, Fri-Sun Nov-Feb)
. Book ahead out of season.
Isola Superiore has dozens of fish restaurants near the port.
Albergo Verbano
0323 3 04 08;
www.hotelverbano.it
; Via Ugo Ara 2, Isola Superiore; s €100-120, d
€150-185;
Mar-Dec)
has accommodation and a restaurant overlooking the lake.
