It’s a small lake town situated in Lake Maggiore easily reachable from Milan.This
historical town has transport to three islands called as Borromean Islands
situated in this big lake. During summer this city hosts a music festival. In
July there is Midsummer Jazz Festival and in mid-August there are Musical
Meditation Concerts and Open Saturday concerts. The concerts take place in the
city as well as in the islands.
1)
Enjoy the panoramic view of Alps and the lake
2)
Go to the beach and swim. Although the beach is
pebbly the water is clean.
3)
Walk in the small city center; try Fior di
Gelato for gelato. I recommend lemon and pistachio flavors if you like them.
4)
Take the boat to reach the islands
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| View of Isola Bella from the shore of Stresa |
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| The dock of the boats |
5)
Isola Bella: Before transforming to a beautiful
island with its palace and small town it was only a rocky island. The Borreomeo
family bought the island and Carlo 3 started building the palace for his wife,
Isabella d’Arda from whom the island takes its name. The palace has also a
breathtaking gardens decorated with statues, different trees and flowers. The
entrance fee to the palace and the gardens is 15€.
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| Gardens of Isola Bella |
6)
Isola dei Pescatori: This small fishing island
has only 32 residents but it is a very attractive tourist spot. The small
island about 375 meters long and 100 meters wide has a hotel, gift shops and
many fish restaurants. The ancient church of San Vittore is one of the oldest
churches and built during 9th century. The small island has one
narrow street and many small paths joining this narrow street. The island is a
good spot to have lunch, enjoy fresh fish and the view. There are some small
pebbly beach spots where it’s also possible to swim.
7)
Isola Madre: Although it’s the biggest island
there is less to see. This island is popular for its “English Garden”
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| Isola Madre |
