Where is the island of Brissago
The enchanting flower island of Brissago is located in the south of Switzerland, in the middle of Ticino, and can be reached in around two and a half hours from Zurich Airport. The Italian-speaking part of Switzerland offers a Mediterranean flair and plenty of sunny days - perfect for a stylish Italian wedding in Ticino.
The two islands of Brissago (Isola Grande and Isola Piccola) are located on picturesque Lake Maggiore, not far from Ascona. Only Isola Grande is open to the public and can be reached by boat from Locarno, San Nazzaro, Ascona, Porto Ronco and Brissago.
You can find more information about the botanical gardens and activities on the island here: ascona-locarno.com.
Villa Emden on the island of Brissago
History of Villa Emden
In 1885, Richard Fleming and his wife Antoniette purchased the island of Brissago. Together they created a large residence and laid the foundations for the magnificent botanical gardens that still adorn the island today. After Richard left the island, Antoniette devoted herself lovingly to the further design of the gardens and invited famous artists, sculptors and writers to experience the creative atmosphere on the island.
After the First World War, Antoniette ran into financial difficulties and finally had to sell the estate to Max Emden in 1927, who had the current Villa Emden built. The garden and the estate thus became the distinctive, elegant wedding location that it is today. You can find more information about the history and a tour of the island here: 4u-ontheroad.ch.
Free weddings on the island
The island of Brissago offers various stylish options for a free wedding ceremony in its well-tended gardens:
- Roman bath: This romantic location is ideal for an intimate ceremony with up to 20 guests. An ancient stone arch offers a direct view of Lake Maggiore, flanked by the Ticino mountain landscape - an ideal backdrop for saying "I do".
- Palm meadow: Nestled in the botanical garden landscape with majestic palm trees, this location is suitable for weddings with up to 100 guests. The palm meadow is also ideal for an atmospheric aperitif before the ceremony, where guests can enjoy the exotic atmosphere of the island to the full.
- Eucalyptus Garden: A picturesque location that can accommodate up to 150 wedding guests and offers a direct view of the lake. Whether a small or large ceremony - the eucalyptus garden gives every wedding an incomparable, naturally beautiful backdrop that captivates with its romance and exclusivity.
Overnight stay, rooms and plan B
Villa Emden offers a variety of elegantly furnished rooms for a stylish and unforgettable wedding. Ten tasteful double rooms are available, including rooms for the bride and groom to get ready. The elegant dining room, with panoramic views of Lake Maggiore, can accommodate up to 80 guests. There is also a side room on request. If the weather is unstable, there is an enclosed veranda with a large window front, which is suitable for both the ceremony and the subsequent celebration. Villa Emden
Arrival and departure options
The easiest way to get to the island is by ferry from Ascona. You can find the timetable and information on the surrounding regions and activities here: ascona-locarno.com.
For weddings, there is a special cab boat that can be chartered for the wedding party. The last return trip to Ascona takes place at 2:00 a.m., but the bridal couple can also arrive separately on a private boat to make a very special appearance. Information about the cab boat can be found here: katjaboat.ch.
The special atmosphere of the island of Brissago
The boat trip to the flower island of Brissago is an experience in itself: the island rises up from the lake, surrounded by mountains and nature that almost transports you away. Scenes from classic films come to mind as the boat heads towards the enchanting island.
After docking, you can feel the special tranquillity of the island - a place where you can completely forget about everyday life and enjoy the beauty of nature and the mild, Mediterranean climate. The island is filled with harmony, elegance and romance - the perfect place for an unforgettable wedding.
Insider tips from a wedding planner
As a wedding planner for Switzerland, Cyprus and Greece, I attach particular importance to finding top locations for my clients. The island of Brissago is undoubtedly one of the most exclusive wedding venues in Switzerland. Here, an impressive variety of plants meets an atmosphere of intimacy and Mediterranean flair - an incomparable combination.
The island also offers special conditions: The entire island, including Villa Emden, can be rented exclusively and is closed to the public from 16:00. A minimum number of 40 guests is required during the week and 60 at the weekend. For overnight guests, there is no time limit for the celebration; for everyone else, the last cab boat ride ends at 2:00 am. Weddings are possible here from May to October.
Of course, precise planning is required to make the wedding day perfect. With my large network and many years of experience, I ensure that the wedding day and the entire preparation time for my couples is stress-free and unforgettable in every respect. If you are also in the planning phase and would like support, I look forward to welcoming you on the other side of your next click.
And if you'd like a dream villa in the same style, but prefer to live directly on the Lake Como want to get married - there are some stunning options there!
Your Melanie
