Monte Isola, the highest island of the European lakes, is a green mountain in the middle of Lake Iseo, defined by Italian legislation as an "area of particular natural and environmental importance".
The inhabited nuclei of the municipality are 11, some in close relationship with the lake, points of connection with the "mainland" as: Peschiera, Sensole, Porto di Siviano and Carzano. Others are located along the flat strip of medium hill: Siviano and Menzino; some towards the top of the mountain: Olzano, Masse, Cure and Senzano. The municipality of Monte Isola also includes the two small islands of San Paolo and Loreto, the first to the south, the other to the north.
The residents of this lake oasis are about 1800 and these solve their problems of internal displacement with motorcycles and a 30 seats bus that provides transport and connection between the fractions of the island. The connections with the "mainland" take place mainly on two routes: Sulzano – Peschiera, Sale Marasino – Carzano, the villages closest to the coast.
Cars have always been abolished in Monte Isola; the only ones authorized are used for some important services (ambulance, doctor, parish priest, policemen). Motorcycles are exclusive to residents; tourists can only use public transport or bicycles.
