Lake Maggiore Private Boat Tour Borromean Heritage & Scenic Views

A whole 1987 Italian vintage cruiser to yourselves: ten metres of classic lines, teak decks and white leather in the cockpit, refitted to run quiet. No shared departures, no crowds — just your group (up to 8) and a local skipper who knows where the light falls at six, which bay is out of the wind, and which island stories are true. Leave from whichever pier suits you — Stresa, Baveno, Pallanza, Feriolo or Laveno — at the hour you choose: no fixed timetable. From the baroque terraces of Isola Bella to the clifftop hermitage of Santa Caterina, the medieval Cannero castles and the quiet villa shores of the Verbano, this is Lake Maggiore the way it’s meant to be seen — from the water, glass in hand. Wine (18+), chilled water and soft drinks on board, towels ready for a swim.

1. 1

   Stresa

   5 min

   We’ll board the boat and set off across the Borromean Gulf, enjoying views of the mountains and the elegant villas along the shore.

2. 2

   Isola Bella

   10 min

   We’ll sail slowly around the jewel of the Borromeo family, admiring from the water the Baroque Borromeo Palace and its famous Italian gardens, with ten terraces rising like a pyramid towards the Borromeo Unicorn. With a bit of luck you’ll spot the white peacocks among the statues.

3. 3

   Isola dei Pescatori

   10 min

   We’ll continue past the Fishermen’s Island, the only one still inhabited all year round, with its narrow lanes, lakeside houses, the bell tower of the 11th-century Church of San Vittore and the fishing boats moored along the shore.

4. 4

   Isola Madre

   10 min

   We’ll then cruise around the largest and most peaceful of the islands, famous for its English-style botanical garden, where azaleas, camellias, rhododendrons and the monumental Kashmir cypress rise above the water, framing the Borromeo Palace.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   5 min

   On our way we’ll pass this tiny island, once the residence of the conductor Arturo Toscanini, still privately owned and not open to visitors.

6. 6

   Giardini Botanici Di Villa Taranto

   5 min

   Along the way we’ll enjoy views of the Pallanza lakefront and the famous Villa Taranto gardens, as well as the Rocca di Angera on the opposite shore.

7. 7

   Stresa

   5 min

   We’ll head back across the gulf, with one last look at the three islands and the mountains surrounding Lake Maggiore.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.