Ascona & Locarno

The picturesque resort of Ascona on the shores of Lake Maggiore has long been known as an artists' paradise. The virtually traffic-free lakeside promenade is a mosaic of old buildings with flower-filled window boxes, while the narrow winding streets, cool arcades, shaded courtyards and colourful piazzas all give a delightful atmopshere in a magnificent lakeside setting. Stroll through Ascona's little alleyways with attractive shops, art galleries, craft centres, restaurants and cosy bars. In the evening the town comes to life, there is music and dancing, concerts and open air cafes.

Locarno is one of the country's most elegant lakeside resorts, the town centre's arcades and piazzas on Piazza Grande bathe in the sunshine which graces Locarno more than any other place in Switzerland, so don't be surprised to see subtropical gardens housing bougainvillea, oleanders, cypress and palm trees.

Explore the atmospheric alleyways for the real culinary experiences on offer, Locarno's speciality is fish pulled straight out of the glistening waters of the lake.