Arrival in Baveno - Arrive at the airport for your flight to Milan. We transfer by coach to either Baveno or neighbouring Stresa on the peaceful shores of Lake Maggiore. The delightful promenade affords superb views of the nearby Borromean Islands, while the palatial villas lining the shore have played host to eminent visitors from Queen Victoria to Winston Churchill, who honeymooned here.
Borromean Islands - Unmistakably Mediterranean in character, Lake Maggiore’s shores are lined with oleanders, palms and aromatic verbena, with its tranquil waters reflecting the azure sky. Just offshore are the fascinating Borromean Islands, which take their name from a Milanese family who once owned the four rocky outcrops and, in the 17th century, commissioned the finest architects and landscape gardeners to craft luxurious residences on them. Pride of place goes to the amazing Baroque palazzo on Isola Bella, which we visit on a fascinating morning guided tour. Its resplendent rooms feature refined furniture, sculptures and paintings, with intricate parquet flooring and pastel-coloured plasterwork; underground you’ll find elaborate shell-adorned grottoes. Even more impressive are the exquisite grounds featuring terraces imaginatively planted with orange and lemon trees, magnolias and a host of other fragrant and colourful shrubs and plants. Marble statues and unique white peacocks add the final touches to this dramatic display. Previous distinguished visitors to the palace include Napoleon and Josephine, as well as Prince Charles and Princess Diana. The second island we visit, Isola dei Pescatori, is a complete contrast. Its cobbled streets, picturesque harbour and charming buildings, which are ideal for strolling around, reflect its 10th-century origins and the ancient fishing tradition after which it is named. This is the perfect place for a relaxing fish lunch in one of the excellent lakeside restaurants – many with enchanting, secluded terraces – before we cruise back to Baveno this afternoon.