Monte Isola: getting there and what to see on the car-free island
Ferries from Sulzano and Sale Marasino, the island loop on foot or by bike, the Ceriola sanctuary and the fishing villages: a practical guide to Monte Isola.
Monte Isola rises in the middle of Lake Iseo and is one of the largest inhabited lake islands in Europe. There are no private cars: you arrive by boat and get around on foot, by bike or on the island minibus. It makes a great day out in any season.
Getting there
- From Sulzano: the shortest and most frequent crossing, to Peschiera Maraglio. Sulzano also has a station on the Brescia-Iseo-Edolo line.
- From Sale Marasino: ferries to Carzano, on the north side of the island.
- From Iseo and other lake ports: on Navigazione Lago d’Iseo routes, more frequent in the warmer months.
In Sulzano and Sale Marasino the car parks near the pier are almost all paid and fill up at weekends: coming by train is often the easiest option.
What to see
- Peschiera Maraglio: the fishing village, with nets drying, traditional boats and lakeside trattorias.
- Sanctuary of the Madonna della Ceriola: at the top of the island, reached on foot along mule tracks through chestnut and olive trees. From the top you can see the whole lake.
- Carzano and Siviano: two quiet villages on the water.
- Rocca Martinengo: the medieval tower above Menzino.
Getting around the island
The road around the island is about nine kilometres long and ideal by bike, with rentals near the piers. The minibus links the piers with the hill villages. On foot, paths lead from the hamlets up to the sanctuary.
What to taste
The local specialities come from the lake: lake fish, dried sardines and Monte Isola salami.
Ferry times and fares change with the seasons: always check the Navigazione Lago d’Iseo website before you travel.
