Stresa is the elegant gateway to the Borromean Islands on the western shore of Lake Maggiore. Once a fishing village, it blossomed into a fashionable resort in the 19th century when English tourists discovered its mild climate and spectacular position on the slopes of Monte Mottarone. The lakefront promenade, lined with Liberty-style hotels and grand villas set among gardens, remains the town's most alluring feature, with views across the water to the islands and the mountains beyond.
The main draws are the Borromean Islands, reached by regular ferries from the waterfront. Isola Bella, with its Baroque Palazzo Borromeo and terraced gardens, is the showpiece, while Isola dei Pescatori retains the charm of a working fishing village, and Isola Madre — the largest island — is almost entirely given over to botanical gardens full of exotic plants and white peacocks. Back in town, narrow alleys lead past hidden villas, and the main avenue opens onto Piazza Marconi and the neo-classical church of Sant'Ambrogio. The Villa Ducale, once home to philosopher Antonio Rosmini, sits in a beautiful park just south of the centre. The road to Monte Mottarone passes the Giardino Alpinia and climbs to panoramic views across the lake and as far as the Monte Rosa massif.