Are considering a trip to N. Italy in mid-April, visiting Lake Como and Maggiore - is that too early for viewing gardens such as Villa Carlotta and those on Isola Bella? Our schedules don't permit summer travel.

The Villa Carlotta and Isola Bella are both open in April. April and May are considered the best months for Villa Carlotta, when the azaleas and rhododendrons are in bloom. These plants don't have a long flowering period, so I would try to go as close as possible to the end of April. I don't know what the best period for L'Isola Bella is.

Flower bloom always depends on the weather. Full bloom for many species appears on average at the end of April. There should be evidence of color in mid-April (quite lovely in an early spring sort of way), but not as rich as early May.

Try not to miss this one---very extensive.

http://www.villataranto.it/eng/default.asp

While it's true that the weather plays a part, the azaleas in northern Italy, and specifically at Villa Carlotta, are usually in full bloom in April. Lake Como has a very mild climate. Just to be on the safe side, the closer to the end of April, the better.

Have you considered the Isole di Brissago? It might not be convenient for you, and it will probably have the same blooming schedule as the other gardens are you considering, but it is lovely!
http://www.isolebrissago.ch/en

Many thanks for all info and suggestions - will plan trip for last week of April to better insure flower viewing.

The second half of April (sometimes even earlier) is the best time for all gardens in the area, like Isole di Brissago, Villa Taranto, Isola Madre, Isola Bella, Lugano municipal park, Villa Carlotta, Villa Olmo .....

In the mountains above the lakes, you will find wild narcissus, broom, lilies of the valley, blue gentian .....
Wild rhododendron (Alprose) begin to bloom in May