Monday
Dear Elsie
Today the sun shone, so we were quickly out and about to enjoy the pleasure of some Italian spring. We took a ferry from Arona to a town 16km further along the lake, called Stresa. It’s always a treat going on a ferry. It was our first time on Lake Maggiore. Leaving Arona afforded us the opportunity of seeing the little town from the water. Notice the trees lining the water front – these are Plain trees and are a feature all over these parts. It looks like they prune them way back for winter and when spring comes, their foliage returns in abundance.
The outline of Arona with the castle on the right.
And a glimpse of the huge San Carlo statue
Turning our attention to where we were headed, we were struck by the beauty of the snow covered Swiss Alps… 
Teddy enjoyed the trip.
We soon arrived with another boat load of tourists…
Arriving in Stresa, we were in need of a cappuccino. I went to the first little kiosk and ordered two, without asking the price. They were 3 euros each! Ouch. But it was really good coffee. We strolled the quiet streets (not many businesses were open as it was still quite early). We then encountered a cafe a couple of blocks in and there on the sign was Cappuccino 1.50! Mike couldn’t help himself and even though I hadn’t finished my 3 euro cup, I was duly handed the 1.50 option. We soon understood the 3 euro coffee was a double shot and the 1.50 wasn’t. By the time I had gently let the final sip slip smoothly down my throat, I was buzzing! We enthusiastically wondered up quaint pathways admiring the greenery & different architecture.
Twas then time to join the queues of tourists who had lined up to go to one of the tiny islands that are very close to Stresa. We had decided to go to Isola Bella, a short 10 minute ferry ride away.
The main feature of Isola Bella is this place… 
The island is tiny- originally inhabited by fishermen, it had 2 small churches and vegetables were grown. That was until 1630. Then a massive project was undertaken by one Vitaliano VI who is considered the founder of Isola Bella. This majestic palace was built over a few hundred years, right up to 1948. It’s known as the Borromeo Palace and is a sight to behold. However, the interest in it is overwhelming and hundreds of tourists flock from all corners of Italy & the world to pay the 22 Euro entry fee to admire the artwork and ornate detail within its walls. If the queue had not been 150 strong, we may have considered the honour of the visit, but we chose rather to enjoy the quaint passages that zig zag through the front buildings.
Pruned Plain trees coming to life…
Clearly no crime on the island – key left of the outside of the door.
From the northern plaza, this is the view.
The building in the middle is on the neighbouring island which is also on the lake route for tourists who want see all three islands. The little patch of greenery in front of the island is inhabited by two beautiful swans which were only visible through my binocs.
From the water, leaving the island, we got another peak at the gargoyles and statues that make up the majestic terraced and landscaped gardens of Borromeo Palace…
Back to Stresa we wandered the streets for another little while before our bus was due to arrive. We got to the bus stop in good time and then the wait began. The bus was at least half an hour late, but it eventually came and off we went, trundling along the lake side enjoying the scenery until we arrived home. A satisfying day of sight-seeing.
Later in the afternoon we walked to the big Carrefour which is just under 2km away. Shopping done, we spent a quiet evening enjoying round two of the pasta dish I made last night. This evening’s was better!
We are gearing up for Zermatt tomorrow! I hope all goes well. The weather looks great!
I can’t let the day end without mentioning Mike’s sister Monica who should have been celebrating her 76th birthday on earth today. This time last year, I would never have imagined that this birthday she would be celebrating in eternity. She was so ready. I’m sure she’s rejoicing.
Psalm 100 is described as one for giving grateful praise.
Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.
It’s not about now – we are only passing through.
Keep the smile going.
God bless you.
In His Grip,
Gran xx :)ma