Just over the border from Italy, Switzerland too has its very own subtropical islands: the Isole Brissago (Brissago Islands) where plants not commonly associated with alpine Switzerland, such as pistachio, carob and almond thrive. 

 

There are two islands, unimaginatively named Isola Grande and Isolino (the islet) though in common with many other local islands and lakes, alternative names are also used: the former is also referred to as San Pancrazio and the latter as Sant’Appollinare.

What sets these apart from other Swiss gardens is of course the profusion of exotic specimens. They are divided according to family and continent of origin with a group of eucalyptus plants from Australia and another group which is typical of the Mediterranean maquis.

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The most common species are smilax, tree heath, pistachio, carob, cistus monspeliensis, rosemary and strawberry tree which when the sun is at its hottest, release scented oils. There is also an impressive range of herbs: thyme, hyssop, lavender, rue and sage. When you catch the boat from Brissago, look out for the huge glass building: a famous cigar factory.