Villas and Gardens of Lake Como and Lake Maggiore Small Group Escorted Tour

Upon arrival, you will be greeted and have a private transfer to your hotel in Stresa where you will stay for the first 2 nights.  Later, in the early evening, you will have the opportunity to meet with your Tour leader. Details regarding the meeting time will be available at reception when you check-in.

After settling in, get to know your surroundings by exploring Stresa and admire the beautiful views towards the Borromean Islands or simply relax by the pool.

Dinner to be enjoyed at leisure.

After breakfast, begin your journey to explore the charming villas and gardens of Lake Maggiore and Lake Como. Today will certainly be a highlight as you visit the stunning Borromean Islands of Isola Bella and Isola Madre by private boat. The islands are renowned for their immaculate gardens, beautiful architecture and elaborate sculptures. Isola Bella offers stunning Baroque architecture and is famous across the world for its Italian gardens, home to exotic plants and white peacocks that roam freely. The palace is richly decorated with artworks, tapestries, and period furniture.

More peaceful Isola Madre was first cultivated at the beginning of the 16th century, when the Borromeo family, impressed by the exceptionally mild climate on the island, began to introduce citrus trees and vines. During the nineteenth century, the orchard gradually evolved into landscaped lush botanical gardens which include rare plants and exotic birds. After, you will return to Stresa by private boat where you can enjoy your last evening on Lake Maggiore.

Meals included:

• Breakfast
• Dinner

Arrive on beautiful Lake Como and check into Hotel Royal Victoria in Varenna on the eastern shore of the lake.
Spend the afternoon at leisure to explore this charming town and perhaps consider a visit to the nearby Villa Cipressi, renowned for its stunning lake views, terraced botanical gardens, and elegant architecture that blends medieval, Renaissance, and 19th-century elements.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at the Royal Victoria.

Meals included:

• Breakfast
• Dinner

With your guide you will board a public boat to Villa Carlotta and visit its world-famous gardens and villa. Built in the late 17th century by the Milanese Marquis Giorgio Clerici it features an impressive botanical garden with over 500 species of plants, including azaleas, rhododendrons, camellias, and exotic plants.

Once you have admired its beauty you will board a private boat for your onward journey along the lake where you will arrive at the stunning Villa Balbianello. Located on a wooded promontory in Lenno the villa offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Explore its immaculate gardens, terraces and interiors which have featured in several movies, including James Bond's "Casino Royale" whilst on your guided tour.

Return to Varenna by private boat and enjoy dinner at leisure.

Meals included:

• Breakfast

After breakfast, your guide will meet you at the hotel to board the public boat to Bellagio. The true beauty of the lake can be appreciated as you take the short journey to this stunning promontory, Bellagio is often described as the "Pearl of Lake Como" with its cobbled streets and lake front restaurants.

Visit the 18th-century Villa Melzi, an elegant example of Neoclassical architecture, and its stunning gardens which feature rare and exotic plants, a Japanese pond, sculptures, and tree-lined walkways with breathtaking views of the lake. Later, free time to explore the charming town of Bellagio, the perfect time for a spot of lunch.
After, board the public boat back to Varenna and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Meals included:

• Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before being transferred to the airport for your return flight to the UK, or onto your next destination in Italy!

Meals included:

• Breakfast