Which Italian lake contains the Borromean Islands?

The Borromean Islands are in Lake Maggiore, the Italian-Swiss lake famed for its elegant islands, gardens, and palaces.

The group lies in the lake’s western arm, around the Borromean Gulf between Stresa and Verbania. Its best-known islands are Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori; the smaller Isolino di San Giovanni and rock of Malghera are also associated with the archipelago.

The islands take their name from the Borromeo family, which began acquiring them in the early 16th century. Isola Bella was transformed from a rocky outcrop into a grand Baroque retreat, while Isola Madre became celebrated for its landscaped gardens. Isola dei Pescatori remains the only permanently inhabited island in the group.

A common mix-up is Lake Como, another famous northern Italian lake with historic villas and islands. Como’s best-known island is Isola Comacina; the Borromean Islands belong specifically to Lake Maggiore.