Lake Maggiore: Isola Bella and Pescatori Tour from Feriolo

Lake Maggiore: Isola Bella and Pescatori Tour from Feriolo

This boat tour of Lake Maggiore offers an affordable way to explore two of the most iconic Borromean Islands, Isola Bella and Isola Pescatori, all for just $17 per person. With a duration of around 5 hours, it suits travelers looking for a relaxed yet comprehensive experience of the lake’s highlights. The tour departs from Feriolo at Via Giuseppe Mazzini, 3, making it accessible for visitors staying nearby. The tour includes visits to the Borromeo Palace and its impressive baroque Italian Gardens, offering a mix of natural beauty and historical architecture.

While the tour provides a well-rounded glimpse of the islands with guided explorations and cruises through the Borromean Gulf, it does not include the entrance fees to the attractions. This means visitors should be prepared for some additional costs and bring cash for the landing tax of €0.50 per person over 6 years old. This tour is ideal for those seeking an affordable, guided boat experience with an emphasis on picturesque villages and historical sites.

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Key Points

• Affordable price of $17 per person for a 5-hour excursion
• Visits to Isola Bella and Isola Pescatori, including time on each island
• Includes a visit to the Borromeo Palace and Italian Gardens
• Cruise through the Borromean Gulf with scenic water views
• Stops at Isola dei Pescatori, allowing for exploration and local shopping
• Minimum group size of 10 people ensures a lively, shared experience

Starting Point at Feriolo and the Tour Schedule

The journey begins at Via Giuseppe Mazzini, 3, where travelers gather for the boat excursion. The tour features hop-on hop-off stops at Isola Bella, with a 2-hour visit to explore its Palace and gardens, and at Isola Pescatori, also allocated 2 hours to wander through its picturesque fishing village. After the visits, the boat cruise continues to showcase the beauty of the lake and its surrounding scenery before returning to the starting point.

Exploring Isola Bella’s Grand Borromeo Palace

Isola Bella is renowned for the Borromeo Palace, a fine example of baroque architecture. Visitors experience a guided visit to the palace interiors and Italian Gardens, which are notable for their grandeur. The gardens are described as grandiose, offering sweeping views of the lake and a chance to see beautifully maintained baroque landscaping. The 2-hour stop allows enough time to absorb the elegance of the palace and stroll through the gardens, capturing plenty of photos.

Discovering the Charm of Isola Pescatori

Isola Pescatori, often called the “fishermen’s island,” is characterized by its ancient village and picturesque streets. The tour includes a stop here for exploration, giving visitors a feel for the local history and fishing traditions. The village’s charm lies in its small shops, narrow alleys, and seaside atmosphere. Tour participants can shop for local products and enjoy the scenic views of the lake from this quaint island.

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Navigating the Borromean Gulf by Boat

The cruise through the Borromean Gulf offers breathtaking water views and a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of Lake Maggiore. The boat ride provides a relaxed pace to view the islands and surroundings, with photo opportunities along the way. The scenic cruise also offers insights into the geography and history of the lake region, making it a highlight of the tour.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes the boat excursion to both islands, a visit to Borromeo Palace and gardens, and an exploration of Isola Pescatori. The entrance fee to the Borromean Islands and landing taxes are not included and must be paid onboard in cash—the landing tax is €0.50 per person over 6 years old. The tour also features multilingual hosts speaking English, German, Italian, Faeroese, and French.

Important Tips for Participants

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes for walking, a camera to capture the scenic views, sunscreen for protection, and water to stay hydrated. The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the nature of island exploration and boat accessibility. Maxi strollers are not allowed onboard, and up to 3 dogs are permitted, making it manageable for pet owners.

Weather, Cancellation, and Flexibility

The excursion depends on weather conditions and minimum bookings of 10 adults. If the minimum is not met or bad weather occurs, the tour company will reimburse the ticket cost. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, or reserve now and pay later to keep travel plans flexible.

Comparing Similar Lake Maggiore Tours

This Feriolo departure tour offers a cost-effective alternative to other boat excursions in the Lake Maggiore area. Similar experiences explore multiple islands, including Isola Madre and Baveno, with hop-on hop-off options. However, this specific tour focuses on Isola Bella and Pescatori, providing more time at each location and a guided visit to the Borromeo Palace.

Final Thoughts on the Feriolo Borromean Islands Tour

This 5-hour boat tour from Feriolo provides great value for travelers interested in history, scenery, and charming villages. The cost is attractive, and the guided visits add depth to the experience. The scenic cruise showcases the natural beauty of Lake Maggiore, while the stops allow for personal exploration.

The tour suits those looking for a relaxing day with guided highlights in a beautiful setting. It’s less suited for travelers requiring full accessibility or those preferring to skip additional entrance fees. For a budget-friendly introduction to the Borromean Islands, this tour offers a balanced mix of culture, nature, and leisure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, with about 2 hours at each island.

What is included in the price?
The boat excursion, visit to Borromeo Palace and gardens, and exploration of Isola Pescatori are included. Entrance fees and landing taxes are not included.

How do I pay the landing tax?
The €0.50 per person tax must be paid cash onboard.

Are there any restrictions for children or pets?
Maxi strollers are not allowed onboard, and up to 3 dogs are permitted.

What language support is available during the tour?
Guides speak English, German, Italian, Faeroese, and French.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

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