Isole di Brissago - A botanical garden on the water

GardenHotelPrimavera
Jul 4
2 min read

🏝️ Discovering the Brissago Islands

The Brissago Islands, located in the heart of Lake Maggiore (Municipality of Brissago, Ticino), consist of two fascinating islands: the Isola Grande (San Pancrazio) and the smaller Sant’Apollinare (also known as the "Isolino"). They are reachable by boat in 20–60 minutes from Brissago, Ascona, Locarno, Porto Ronco, and San Nazzaro.

📜 Historical Overview

Ancient and Medieval Eras: Roman remains and a 13th-century monastery were discovered on the islands.
1885–1927: Russian Baroness Antoinette de Saint-Léger acquired the island and created the first botanical garden, hosting artists like Ranzoni, Franzoni, and Leoncavallo.
1927–1940: German merchant Max Emden purchased the island, demolished the existing villa, and built the neoclassical Villa Emden, with an orangery, Roman bath, and boat dock.
Since 1949: A public consortium (Canton of Ticino, the municipalities of Ascona, Brissago, and Ronco) opened the islands to the public in 1950 as the “Botanical Park of the Canton of Ticino.” Since 2020, the Canton of Ticino has been the sole owner.

🌺 The Botanical Garden

Located on the Isola Grande: 2.5 hectares with over 2,000 exotic plant species from the Mediterranean, South Africa, Chile, Australia, California, Asia, and Oceania – all grown outdoors thanks to the mild microclimate.
The garden is divided into five thematic zones, including bamboo forest, scenic overlook, reed area, small beach, orangery, and Roman bath.
Scientifically managed following BGCI and IPEN standards, promoting conservation, education, and research.
Partially accessible for strollers and wheelchairs (especially the villa and restaurant); some paths have slopes or steps.
The smaller island (Sant’Apollinare) is not open to the public and is preserved for native flora and historical ruins.

⏰ Boat Timetable from Brissago

Boats operated by Navigazione Lago Maggiore run regularly from Brissago pier (also from Ascona, Locarno, etc.) to Isola Grande (San Pancrazio).
The trip from Brissago takes around 15–20 minutes; in spring and summer, departures run every 30–60 minutes.
2025 season: from March 19 to November 9, with the botanical garden open daily during this period.
It is recommended to check the current schedule online or at the pier before visiting.

ℹ️ Practical Information

Garden opening dates: daily from March 19 to November 9, 2025.
Ticket prices (2025): Free for children under 16; adults CHF 10.
Food & Drink: Restaurant Villa Emden on Isola Grande.
Activities: Guided botanical tours, exhibitions, jazz concerts, treasure hunts, and thematic events.

✅ Tips for Visiting

Arrive early to enjoy the peaceful morning ambiance.
Explore the botanical trails – from bamboo forest to scenic viewpoints.
Relax at Restaurant Villa Emden and enjoy the lake views.
For children: fun and educational treasure hunt across the island.
Don’t forget your camera – the views are stunning!

🌿 Conclusion

The Brissago Islands offer a unique combination of history, exotic nature, and Mediterranean charm – a magical destination in the heart of Ticino.auberhaftes Ausflugsziel im Herzen des Tessins.