Monte Isola

Monte Isola on Lake Iseo is, at 12.61 km², the largest lake island in Italy; the claim that it is the “largest lake island in Europe” is not correct, as there are larger ones in Finland and on Lake Ladoga. You cannot bring a car. The ferry from Sulzano to Peschiera Maraglio runs about every 15 to 20 minutes and takes around five minutes; the shortest crossings are from Sulzano and Sale Marasino. The sanctuary of the Madonna della Ceriola stands on the summit.

Peschiera Maraglio on the south coast is the busiest village, with the most bars and grassy swimming spots on the shore, while Siviano in the north-west is a quieter hamlet of narrow stone lanes. Paths lead from the ferry villages into the interior and climb steeply to the sanctuary; if you cross early, you can combine the ascent with a picnic at the top. On the island you travel on foot or by bicycle around the shore.

In Sulzano you can park at the Frigio and Gerola car parks, about ten minutes' walk from the landing stage; all-day parking is charged. Sulzano is about 24 km from the Brescia Ovest motorway exit and has a station on the Brescia–Iseo–Edolo line. Allow half a day to a full day; motorhome drivers should check the pitch situation in Sulzano in advance.