Brissago Islands - Ticino

Stunning subtropical gardens in an idyllic setting

Brissago Islands, Lake Maggiore
 
About Brissago Islands

Available: April-October.

Example travel costs

Ticino Ticket: 20% discount on a 1 day lake pass. Gardens entry 7 Sfr

Half Fare Card: 19 Sfr for a day pass covering the Swiss part of the lake (Locarno, Ascona and Brissago).  Gardens entry 10 Sfrs

Over 1,500 species of plants grow in the wonderful botanical gardens of the Brissago Islands. This makes for a wonderful day out - a cruise to the islands, lunch in a beautiful setting and the chance to immerse yourself in this subtropical paradise with stunning blooms.

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Contact us to book your holiday

Call us on 0800 619 1200 or email us at info@swissholidayco.com


Highlights

Botanical park

In 1885 the baroness Antoinette Saint Leger transformed the islands into a residence where painters, sculptors, musicians and writers could meet.

The smaller island (Isola Piccola or St. Apollinaire) is covered with indigenous vegetation and is kept in its natural state. The big island (Isola Grande or St. Pancrazio) features the botanical park and was opened to the public in 1950. It features a wonderful array of subtropical plants including azaleas, rhododendrons, palm trees, camellias, magnolia, agaves, cypress and many more.

Lunch on the island

The elegant restaurant has an attractive terrace set amongst the lush subtropical vegetation and with a view over the lake. Both the atmosphere and the menu have a Mediterranean influence. There are plenty of picnic spots if you prefer a more informal lunch.

Children's scavenger hunt

Children will enjoy exploring the island on this treasure hunt.

Ask for a map at the entrance and follow the pirates' trail with clues taking you through mysterious locations in amongst the exotic plants.


Directions

You can board a lake boat at the Locarno or Ascona pier for the short journey to the Brissago Islands.

Please check before travel for maintenance closures. 

 

Request your holiday quotation

Call us on 0800 619 1200 or email us at info@swissholidayco.com

Brissago Islands, Lake Maggiore

More excursions in the region

The Ticino has a distinct Italian influence and it is a joy to cruise to an idyllic village for a lakeside lunch. As well as any number of cruises, there's subtropical gardens and an array of funiculars and cable cars to take you up to mountains which offer panoramic views over the region.

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Your choice of resorts

Morcote village on Lake Lugano

The Italian speaking canton of Ticino occupies the balmy lakelands of the southern foothills of the Alps. There are a choice of lakeside resorts such as Ascona, Lugano, Locarno, all offering cruises, mountain visits, walking opportunities and excellent cuisine.

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