Stresa

The plan today was to visit the three Borromeo islands on the Lake which is a day on its own but only a ten minute boat ride from Stresa.

First of the Islands was Isola Bella with it's Palace & garden.

This island took the longest to explore. It was teaming with lovely shops through all its narrow alleyways. On approaching the island you could see this amazing looking garden but of course you couldn't reach the garden without buying a ticket which we purchased  and found that it lead you through a famous Palace going back to Napoleons days. It was loaded with huge dark original artworks, furnishings, tapestrys & theatres. All very overwhelming to think that one family could be so wealthy away back then. The Borromeo family still own the three islands. We finally reached the garden outside with its ten terraces an open air theatre & statues.

The second island was Pescatori where we took a walk around and had a quick snack. I found a pair of copy Birkenstock sandals..... not quite as comfortable as the real thing however they will take me through the trip. 

The third Island Madre. Home to a very elegant villa which to me was like another Palace and surrounded by extensive botanic gardens which all began from rock. It had a great selection of azaleas,rhodys, camellias, magnolias and ancient wisteria and have all exceeded their maximum height. 

By the time we had finished exploring these three islands and took the boat back to Stresa we were ready for some relaxation & refreshment before heading out for our dinner.