The islands

Low cloud and "mizzle" scuppered our plans for a hike in the hills (no views) so we decided to stay low and tour the three Maggiore islands: Isola Bella, Isola Pescatore and Isola Madre. Isola Bella is occupied by an enormous, astonishing and decadent palazzo and its formal gardens (plus a few shops and restaurants). Isola Pescatore is a tiny tiny village (population 50) - the location of these fishing nets and our lunch. Isola Madre has a crumbling old palazzo and extensive, truly beautiful gardens - and nothing else. My favourite? Pescatore!