The Brissago Islands (Italian: Isole di Brissago) are a picturesque pair of islands located in the Swiss part of Lake Maggiore, near the villages of Brissago and Ascona. The larger island, Isola Grande, is renowned for its beautiful botanical garden, which boasts over 2,000 plant species from subtropical regions around the world. The smaller island, Isola di Sant’Apollinare, remains largely untouched and is not open to the public.

The islands have a rich history, including being a refuge for early Christians and home to a monastery built by nuns in the thirteenth century. Over the years, the islands were owned by notable figures like Baroness Antoinette de Saint Léger and Max Emden before being purchased by the public in 1949. Today, the islands are open to visitors, with San Pancrazio's botanical garden attracting over 90,000 people annually.

You can reach the Brissago Islands by boat from several nearby locations, including Locarno and Ascona. The journey across the lake offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a delightful start to your visit. Once on Isola Grande, you can explore well-maintained paths that lead through diverse plant collections, including Mediterranean and tropical species.

Seraina’s Tip: To make the most of your visit, consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the lush gardens. Arriving by boat not only adds to the experience but also allows you to soak in the stunning lake views. If you can, aim for a visit during weekdays or later in the afternoon when crowds thin out—this way, you can enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere as you wander through this botanical paradise.