“For however fanciful and fantastic the Isola Bella may be, and is, it still is beautiful.” – Charles Dickens

I can’t think of a better quote for Isola Bella…it is absolutely beautiful and should be on everyone’s “must do” list whilst visiting the north of Italy 🇮🇹; and the fact that Charles Dickens was so taken by it is pretty darn cool 😎.  So, if you’re already visiting Lake Como and already in Northern Italy, then it’s a no brainer!  You have to make time in your itinerary to see this amazing Island, palace 🏰 and gardens 🌺!

Isola Bella and the Palazzo Borromeo are the realization and evolution of a 400 year long dream of the Borromeo family beginning around 1630.   The family also owned Isola Madre with Giulio Caesar III and Carlo III from around 1501, but  beginning in the 17th century they focused their efforts into transforming this small fisherman’s 🎣 island with 2 little, churches ⛪️ and vegetable 🍅 garden into what it is today.  The driving force behind all this was Vitaliano VI, who is considered the founder of Isola Bella.  The work and family dream continued on thru the 18th and 19th centuries until 1948, when Vitaliano IX Borromeo had the great pier, the Salone Nuovo, and the northern façade built.  Talk about family dedication, perseverance, determination…that’s amazing!

The Baroque Italian-style garden of Isola Bella is famous all over the world 🌍, and since 2002 along with Isola Madre, are both now part of the prestigious Royal Horticultural Society.

The weather was the only disappointing part of my visit…it was overcast, and drizzling 🌧 so the epic views and blue skies are something I longed to see and personally missed.  Regardless, I know that I would want to go back even, if I had better weather; that’s how beautiful Isola Bella 🌹 is.  I guess that’s why they named it “Beautiful Island ”, the name is perfect.

There’s so much to see 👀, I recommend you taking your time and lean in; this is not a place you want to rush through.  Just out of respect…something that took 400 years to finish should warrants at least half your day – don’t you think 🤔?  In fact, a private tour is the best way to really dig in…with so much history , love and dedication you don’t want to miss anything on Isola 🏝 Bella.

So remember, next time you’re in the North of Italy, make sure you add Isola Bella to your itinerary.  It’s a must do, and should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Stay safe, and remember, if you leave your place, cover your face 😷.

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