Villa Pallavicino Park is a popular tourist attraction located in Stresa, on Lake Maggiore. An enjoyable day out for all ages, the park covers an extensive 18 hectares and offers a sanctuary of beautiful gardens and flowers, along with over 50 species of animal, including tropical birds, deer, llamas and zebras.

Villa Pallavicino was constructed in 1855, when Neapolitan statesman, Ruggero Bonghi, decided to purchase the land and build a small house for himself. In 1862, the Pallavicino family acquired the property and began to improve the house and the surrounding grounds. The family went on to transform the house into a 19th century Neoclassical-style villa, built roads wide enough for carriages and decorated the gardens with statues. In 1952, the family had the desire to turn the park into a small zoological garden and they began to acquire animals and birds from all over the world. In 1956 the Pallavicino family opened the beautiful gardens and animal park to the public.

Take in the panoramic views over Lake Maggiore and the mountains beyond before strolling through the grounds to admire the beautiful lawns, shady avenues, century-old trees and wealth of pretty flowers. The trees within the park are a real highlight, thought to be among the oldest in Italy, the park features chestnut trees, red beeches, maples and a cedar of Lebanon. Visit the Flower Garden, a colourful area of the park filled with roses and flower beds, as it blooms with gorgeous colours and perfumes throughout the summer.

Marvel at the many animals which call the park home, including kangaroos, zebras and donkeys. Pay a visit to the Farm Area, a space that allows visitors the opportunity to get up close with the animals. Goats, sheep, llamas, alpacas and deer roam free in this area and are happy to be petted by visitors. Aviaries within the park house exotic parrots, toucans and pheasants, whilst charming pink flamingos stand in an enclosed lake.

There is a café, souvenir shop, children’s play area and a picnic area available within the grounds. The park is open every day from March to October from 10am to 6:30pm (last entry is at 5:30pm). Villa Pallavicino is accessible by car, foot or public transport and there is a free car park located near the entrance of the park.