Ascona is Switzerland's most low-lying town, nestling along the northernmost shore of Lake Maggiore. It boasts all the charm, culture and culinary delights of Provence but without the heaving mass of tourists that tend to descend upon the French Riviera every summer. With a lakeside promenade lined with chic cafes and palm trees, all in the shadow of glacier-crested mountains, and a lake so clean that the water is as clear-as-glass, it makes for the perfect European break. Our collection of best places to stay in Ascona have something for everyone from chic boutiques to luxury escapes.
Ascona bares all the trappings of a Mediterranean town. Part of a big wine-producing region of Switzerland, it has a mild microclimate perfectly suited to viticulture. Luckily for tourists, Switzerland only exports 1.5% of its wine, so getting your hands on some is a great boon.
A particular pleasure is being able to stand awestruck at snowcapped Alpine ridges while sitting in the shade of a palm tree. One such mountain is the Monte Vista - the Mountain of Truth - which during the 20th century was a utopian commune of writers, philosophers and poets, from Herman Hesse to Carl Jung. The museum there offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of the commune and the reasons for its decline. Other writers, like James Joyce, flocked to the beautiful Brissago Islands, now a botanical park. It is easy to see why Ascona is home to over 40 millionaires, in spite of having a population barely exceeding 5000 people.
The lake and its surroundings offer much to the adventurous tourist. You can rent a sail or motorboat to explore Lake Maggiore or even a standup paddleboard from Asconautica; be sure to hire a skipper to take you to the Brissago Islands' botanical park - a breathtaking afternoon excursion! Better still, get yourself to Valle Verzasca and try your hand at adventure sports or go hiking through the spellbinding valleys of Centovalli.
As you stroll through the town, in the shade of palm trees, you will marvel at the picture-perfect beauty of the pastel-coloured houses that line the winding cobbled streets, housing fashion boutiques and lovely chic cafes and art galleries like the Museum of Modern Art. The lakeside promenade, boasting some of the most gorgeous panoramic views in the town, is lined with some amazing cafes. One of Ascona's greatest assets is how unspoilt it is by tourism, demonstrated by how hard it is to find an English menu at a restaurant!
To start planning your trip browse through our collection of the best places to stay in Ascona.
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Ascona (Ascona)
This magnificent Castello's setting on the shore of Lake Maggiore is truly special. The high-ceiling rooms are palatial, with large windows and ornate plaster-work and furnishings. With a heated pool and a restaurant offering lakeside dining with stunning views. A perfect romantic destination.
Lake Maggiore
An artfully designed hotel on the edge of the pretty town of Ascona. Brightly coloured rooms are hip and fresh and most boast private balconies and lake views. A choice of two restaurants both with outdoor dining. Live music held on some evenings. A trendy choice in a great location for exploring.
Ascona
Luxury abounds at the heavenly Eden Roc on Lake Maggiore. Some of the highlights include a superb spa, a choice of four excellent restaurants and a plethora of water-sports facilities on site. Perfect for those looking for a lavish holiday by a lake.
Ascona
A five star property situated on the stunning Lake Maggiore. Set in Mediterranean gardens reflective of its location on the Swiss Italian border. Contemporary light airy rooms the best of which have french doors leading straight on to the garden. A Two Star Michelin restaurant. Complete luxury.
Ascona
A luxury hotel situated on the lakeshore of Lake Locarno. Framed by mountains and sitting in gardens full of fruit trees. Spoiling rooms mixing traditional furniture in a contemporary setting. The bathrooms are large and very modern. A glorious spa for complete relaxation. A spoiling stay.
