As with many sites throughout Italy, this seemingly unremarkable triangular island is steeped in history. Like Isola Partegora, the island's size belies its historic importance.

 

Unesco World Heritage Site status

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Isola Virginia, Lago Varese’s only Island, is probably the oldest prehistoric pile dwelling settlement so far discovered in and around the Alps. In 2011, together with over 100 other sites in 6 Alpine countries, the site was awarded Unesco World Heritage Site status.

Cast adrift just metres from the shoreline from which it is separated by a narrow strip of reed beds, marshland and open water, the area still has a primordial quality.

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Other than the addition of a small museum and restaurant, La Tana dell’Isola (the island den), Isola Virginia can’t have changed very much over the millennia.

 

Boat service

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Boat service to the wooded island has been fairly erratic recently. Judging by the internet site, the boat departs from Biandronno four times a day at 12.00, 12.30, 13.00 – 19.30 on Saturdays and Sundays, presumably only during the summer months.

Departures are obviously scheduled to allow guests to arrive at the restaurant in time for lunch or dinner. As Biandronno is on Lago Varese’s excellent 29 km cycle track which loops all the way round the lake, the island also makes a pleasant place to stop for lunch.