Monte Isola

The mountain on the lake

Looking at that mountain rising majestically from the placid waters, you’d almost think you were in a Norwegian fjord. Instead, you’re in the heart of Lombardy and what you see in the middle of Lake Iseo is Monte Isola, declared one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Tiny, at just 4 square kilometres in area and 600 metres in height, yet incredibly full of activities and places to visit. On foot or, perhaps, by bicycle.

Starting with the Olive Walk, certainly the most picturesque route on the island, which winds along the shores of the lake among centuries-old trees and the old wooden docks of the fishermen, for centuries the real engine of the local economy.

In the alleys and lanes of the main town of Siviano, you can then wander in search of traces of the island's medieval past, before strolling along the Peschiera Maraglio lakefront for an aperitif or to sample local gastronomic delicacies. Art lovers can’t miss a visit to the 14th-century Rocca Martinengo or the Madonna della Ceriola sanctuary, which offers a unique 360-degree view of the lake.