Nestled in the sparkling waters of Lake Maggiore, the Isole di Brissago are two lush islands just a short boat ride from Brissago, Switzerland. Perfect for a half-day family outing, we spent about three hours exploring Isola Grande—the only island open to the public—soaking up both the natural beauty and the unique experiences it offers.
A Storied Past: From Baroness to Botanical Gem
The islands’ fascinating history begins with Baroness Antoinette Fleming, who moved here in the late 1800s. She poured her energy into transforming the abandoned land into a thriving botanical garden. In 1927, the islands were sold to Max Emden, a wealthy merchant from Hamburg, who built the elegant villa that still stands today. Now, Villa Emden is open to the public as a boutique hotel and restaurant, and it is a sought-after venue for weddings thanks to its romantic gardens and stunning lake views.
Exploring Microclimates and Family Highlights
Touring the island feels like a botanical world tour: Mediterranean herbs, towering Australian eucalyptus, South African proteas, and American cacti thrive in different microclimates, thanks to the island’s unique position and mild weather. Our kids loved spotting the spiky cacti, swinging on the sandy beach’s infinity swing, and wandering through the misty bamboo forest. My personal favorite was the impressive King Protea flower from South Africa. There are stairs on the island, but if you stick to the main path, a stroller is accessible.
Treasure Hunt Adventure
Upon arrival, we spotted a sign for a treasure hunt for kids. We picked up a map at the gift shop near the ferry dock for 2 CHF. The children’s mission: find 10 stations around the island to collect stamps, each revealing a new plant and a fun fact. The signs were in English, German, Italian, and French, making the activity accessible for everyone. After collecting all 10 stamps, we returned to the shop, and our son was thrilled to receive cookies as a reward. This activity kept the kids engaged and excited as we explored.
Dining at Villa Emden
For lunch, we reserved a table at the Villa Emden restaurant, located in the historic villa. We chose to sit inside to escape the midday warmth, though the patio offers beautiful lake views. The menu featured delicious dishes like salmon ceviche and burgers, while the kids enjoyed pasta. The staff were friendly and attentive, and the villa’s architecture added to the charm. Families are well catered for, with baby chairs, a changing table, and an elevator for easy access. For a quick snack, the gift shop by the dock offers drinks, ice cream, cookies, and chips.
Getting There and Tickets
The Isole di Brissago are only accessible by boat. We bought our ferry and island tickets at the Brissago terminal, but you can also purchase them at the island’s gift shop. Discounts are available with the Swiss Travel Pass, Half Fare Card, and Junior Card. Be sure to check the boat timetables online before your trip.
Our half-day on the Isole di Brissago was a perfect blend of nature, history, and family fun. The treasure hunt, diverse gardens, and welcoming restaurant made it a memorable outing for all ages. If you’re looking for a unique, family-friendly adventure on Lake Maggiore, the Brissago Islands are a must-visit.