Lake Maggiore is one of the 'Lombardy lakes' of northern Italy and the second largest lake in Italy, after Lake Garda. Formed from a glacier, the lake is surrounded by hills in the south and mountains to the north. It's a long and narrow lake. Stresa is an excellent base to discover Lake Maggiore. There is so much to see and do from palaces, villas and gardens to markets, local festivals and concerts. There are walks for every ability and excursions that depart from Stresa to see the best of the Italian Lake District. You will reach the Borromean Islands by boat. Your guide will introduce you to the sumptuous Baroque palace and terraced gardens of Isola Bella, the charming villas, gardens and theatres on Isola Madre, and the traditional fishing village of Isola Pescatori. Isola Bella will surprise you with its sumptuous baroque palace and its terraced Italian-style gardens.