Welcome to Switzerland's wonderful sunny canton, a place that offers much more than merely a refreshing dip in Lake Maggiore or the enjoyment of a delciious gelato. We have compiled hiking and biking routes along other exciting outdoor activities for the most adventurous souls among you. Escape the hustle and bustle in the valley to explore the idyllic Italian-speaking Alpine region of Switzerland šµš„¾
Cardada Cimetta
Did you know that an easily reachable vantage point is located just above Locarno, overlooking both the lowest (Lake Maggiore) and the highest (Dufourspitze) point in Switzerland? Cardada is a magical place, great for hiking, biking and enjoying the outstanding landscape while taking a break.
Cardada Bike Ā© ticino.ch
This region is particularly appealing to keen mountain bikers: Cardada features one of the best mountain bike trails with breathtaking views to enjoy while pedalling. For those who are not afraid of heights, a paragliding flight over the city of Locarno landing on the mini island near the Maggia Delta makes for an unforgettable experience.
š Getting there: This natural haven is easily accessible by cable car, starting from Locarno Orsellina. Ascend to Cardada by cable car before taking a ride on the vintage chairlift that takes you up to Cimetta. The chairlift ride itself is an experience and offers great views of the surrounding landscape!
Vintage chairlift to Cimetta Ā© Ticino Top Ten
Val Bavona - Foroglio waterfall
Take a leisurely hike in Val Bavona and discover the fascinating history of Ticino. Hike past typical Ticino rustici on your way to the waterfall in Foroglio, an idyllic setting for a romantic picnic.
Cavergno is the starting point of a themed educational trail, the "Alpine pastures in the Bavona Valley", which takes you to the Terra di Foroglio. The route passes along the Bavona, through woods and hamlets and past the Maggia Museum before reaching Ritorto, a small village with a lovely grotto located at the foot of an impressive cliff.
Wasserfall von Foroglio Ā© ticino.ch
A narrow path leads further up before you reach the roar of the Foroglio waterfall. Tha Cascata di Foroglio is also reachable by bike from Ascona in about four hours.
š Getting there: approx. 45 minutes by bus 315 from Ascona (Solduno, Stazione).
Maggiatal - Fusio and Lago Mognola
The Vallemaggia never ceases to surprise, even for those who think they already know it. Innumerable hiking trails lead to picturesque alpine lakes, passing through typical Ticino villages, along alpine capannas, over mountain passes, along historic paths and through almost unspoilt natural landscapes.
At an altitutde of 2.003 meters stands a wonderful alpine lake, Lago Mognola, nestled in the fascinating scenery of the Lavizzara region. Lago Mognola is located above Fusio, the last village in the Lavizzara Valley. Fusio is a real gem, and a walk through the village either before or after the hike is definitely not to be missed. A beautiful four-hour hike then leads to the lake.
Despite its remoteness, Lago Mognola is home to a whole range of activities. This alpine lake is a popular destination for fishermen and rock climbing enthusiasts. Enjoy safely exploring the area with Mognola Rock Climbing.
š Getting there: From Locarno railway station: Take the NFB no. 315 towards Cavergno, Paese. Get off at Bignasco, Posta bus stop. Continue on bus 334 to Fusio, Paese.
Lago Mognola Ā© Ascona-Locarno
Monte San Grigio
Alongside its castles and fortress walls in Bellinzona, Ticino is also home to a second UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003. Monte San Giorgio is located at the southern most end of Lago di Lugano and is one of the world's most important fossil reserves.
Ticino is home to a second UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003. Monte San Giorgio is located at the southern most end of Lago di Lugano and is one of the world's most important fossil reserves. Monte San Giorgio is not only a treasure trove for archaeologists, it is also an excellent vantage point with panoramic views over the Lake Lugano region.
The hiking trail runs through Meride town centre making it well worth a coffee break. Monte San Grigio can also be tackled by mountain bike from the south side and downhill on single trails through the steep eastern flank.
š Getting there: By boat from Lugano-Paradiso to Bursinio Arsizio. From there, take the small cable car to the Serpiano summit station. Upon reaching the top, admire the magnificent view from the terrace of the Hotel Serpiano and then start the ascent to the peak with an extra shot of motivation.
Magadino plain
A bike tour through Ticino's farmlands: the Parco del Piano di Magadino, with its 2,350 hectares, is an extensive area of open landscape between Bellinzona and Locarno, in which farming, nature and outdoor activities come together. Over 70% of the area is dedicated to agriculture, which makes it well-worth buying locally produced goods or sampling regional specialities in restaurants along the way.
A stopover in the Bolle di Magadino Nature Reserve: home to a special, peculiar flora and fauna caught between water and land. Natural trails were developed to make it possible to visit the Bolle without causing major disturbance to its natural inhabitants. Three access points in Magadino and one in the Tenero-Gordola area lead to the nature trails with German and Italian information boards.
Bolle di Magadino Ā© ticino.ch
The bike tour starts in Tenero and leads past vineyards on the sunny slopes and the River Ticino to Cugnasco. Cross the river in Gudo and follow the route to Bellinzona. The route is suitable for all types of bikes.
Our choice of hotels in Ticino
Villa Sassa Hotel****, Residence & Spa
Lugano
As you look up from Villa Sassa to the mountains above, or over the beautiful city of Lugano with its lake, it is hard to look away. Arrive and feel good! No matter if you want to relax in one of our tastefully furnished rooms, sunbathe by the pool or enjoy the beneficial effect of the DOT.SPA.
Hotel Al Ponte Antico***
Ascona
Hotel Ascona is set in a fantastic location at the foot of Monte VeritĆ . It is a very special place with an incredible view of the Lake. Unwind in the subtropical garden or by the heated pool while enjoying the view. The Hotel offers regular events, such as Ticino evenings with dishes from the region and a choir as musical accompaniment.
Hotel Al Ponte Antico***
Intragna Golino
Peace, relaxation and cosiness are more than just buzzwords here, as the small and fascinating Hotel Al Ponte Anticowith Mediterranean influence is harmoniously embedded in the middle of green nature.. Perfect for golf, swimming or hiking holidays, only a few kilometres from Locarno and Ascona.
Hotel de la Paix****
Lugano
Hotel de la Paix in Lugano is a stylish building from the 18th century, very close to the lake. Its beautiful garden terrace is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the stunning view of the bay of Lugano. The 2 restaurants will spoil you with Italian specialties, grilled dishes, pizzas and international cuisine.
Riva Rooms & Studios
Minusio
The Riva Rooms are located in Minusio, 200 metres from the lakeshore and close to the train station. Enjoy the natural surroundings of the Bolle di Magadino andthe emerald green waters of the Verzasca River. Self-catering rooms with kitchen are alsoavailable.
Hotel Polo***
Ascona
Hotel Polo awaits you in the heart of the picturesque town of Ascona in Ticino. Ascona is set on a magnificent, sunny stretch of Lake Maggiore and is one of Switzerland's most popular holiday destinations. Make the most of the wonderful restaurant terrace or enjoy the Attica double room with its own whirlpool.
We wish you a sporty break and lots of fun with our partner hotels in Ticino. Our partner hotels are looking forward to your visit!