Landmark

Grand Hotel des Iles Borromées

Check tickets & tours

Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.

The Grand Hotel des Iles Borromées is a five-star hotel that has been a symbol of Stresa's belle époque since 1863. Set in a sprawling park on the lakefront, the hotel boasts opulent interiors with frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and antique furnishings. Its grand lobby and restaurant evoke the golden age of travel, when aristocrats and celebrities flocked here. The hotel's private beach, outdoor pool, and lush gardens offer a serene escape, while the views of the Borromean Islands are breathtaking. Even if you're not a guest, you can visit for afternoon tea, a cocktail on the terrace, or a meal at the restaurant. What makes it distinctive is its rich history: it hosted the Stresa Conference in 1935 and has welcomed figures like Ernest Hemingway. The architecture is a blend of neoclassical and Liberty style, making it a landmark in its own right.

Don't miss

  • Admire the frescoed ceilings in the main hall and dining room
  • Stroll through the English-style park with century-old trees
  • Enjoy a drink on the terrace overlooking Lake Maggiore
  • Visit the private beach and outdoor pool (for guests)
  • Dine at the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Grand Hotel des Iles Borromées

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

More attractions in Stresa

Planning your trip to Stresa? See where to eat, more attractions, or build a Stresa itinerary.