My trip to the Lake District of Northern Italy last April/May had its share of WOW! moments (which have been the subject of many blogs), but this post is about the simple-in-their-beauty images that invoke a sense of peace and harmony when I look at them. Like when you turn a corner, and a sigh escapes you…
It helps, too, that this is a different climate than I’m accustomed to so there is discovery down every path. This district of Italy is known for its mild Mediterranean weather, inspiring a number of magnificent gardens; these on the Borromeo family’s Isola Madre are considered exceptional botanical collections, a little floating Eden in Lake Maggiore. Wandering through this tranquil oasis of nature is like taking a journey across the globe, with subtropical and evergreen plants, and rare and exotic species flourishing, their fragrances filling the air at the height of blooming season.
And throughout the year, the many resident white peacocks present “photo ops” for visitors.
The private courtyard of the Borromeo’s simple Palazzo (compared to the Large Palazzo on Isola Bella) and surrounding areas is nothing if not beguiling.
Isola Madre’s wisteria collection boasts an impressive 18 varieties.
The intimate Venetian sitting room is now the gift shop…a marvel of trompe l’oeil artistry that held me in thrall. To say that I have an affection for good faux painting is an understatement. Look at this ceiling, with its curves and arches! At the center of the ceiling, a monumental Murano glass chandelier is suspended in all its splendor.
I adored the surrounding walls with their witty takes on fanciful plants growing out of real urns and faux flowers curving around columns.
Other Lake Maggiore stops possessed their own charm and fantasy, many making a case for what rain and mist contribute to the intriguing mood of a garden!
And an enchanting fountain that is now a personal favorite…such a treat to view from many angles, made all the more elegant with the selection of white Calla Lilies in the four corners.
Do put the Northern Lakes of Italy on your travel calendar…you’ll be pleased and enchanted…
This place is magically beautiful. I especially love the white calla lilies around the beautiful fountain in the most majestic setting . I have a thing for them ever since childhood. When I was a little boy myAunt Helen would always bring me a calla Lily, it would either be white or yellow. And every time I see them, I remember my Aunt Helen.
You just can’t top PRETTY!
From the frilly flowers surrounding glorious fountains to the fabulous “faux” flowers, vines, and urns in that exquisite gift shop, I just studied each of your photos with the thought that each of them could be the topic for a college art class. Add professor to your list of accomplishments!
This IS a genuine fairytale!!! I need a swing to…just gaze… franki
18 varieties of wisteria = wow! The peacocks, the fountains – are quite stunning!
LOVELY LADY,
OK! ‘NOW’ YOU’VE DONE IT!
YOU REALISE THERE’S JUST SO MUCH BEAUTY ONE CAN DEAL WITH –
WITHOUT ASKING THE QUESTION …
“HOW CAN A WORLD THAT PRODUCED SUCH BEAUTY … FIND ITSELF IN ITS PRESENT STATE?”
BUT THANK YOU FOR REMINDING US – OF WHAT ONCE – WE WERE CAPABLE OF!
FONDLY,
TOM
SO beautiful!!