Nestling on the northernmost shore of Lake Maggiore is Locarno, a town that is steeped in history and natural beauty. Boasting a warm climate where lemon and palm trees blossom, a fascinating and picturesque Old Town lined with narrow lanes and ancient churches, and a gorgeous hinterland ideally suited to hiking, Locarno bares all the trappings of a fantastic romantic weekend away. Our collection of the best places to stay in Locarno offer something for everyone from chic boutiques to upmarket luxury hotels.
The Old Town is a piece of Mediterranean elegance. The lovely narrow lanes all lead to the heart of Locarno, the magnificent Piazza Grande, where you can find the market and, in the heat of the August sunshine, the annual film festival. On the edge of the piazza stands the Castello Visconteo, a 12th castle doubling up as an archaeological museum, which is worth checking out. Locarno is also renowned for its thriving art scene, with galleries like Casa Rusca and Il Rivellino displaying the best of contemporary art.
The waters of Lake Maggiore, Alpine-fed and crystal clear, are perfectly suited to scuba diving and watersports like wakeboarding and waterskiing; you can also book boat excursions to the nearby Brissago Islands. Afterwards, be sure to head to the Lido Locarno, an excellent wellness complex featuring thermal baths, spa treatments and swimming pools, all against a stunning backdrop of snowcapped Alpine mountains.
Out-of-town, there is much to feast your eyes upon. Looming high above Locarno, saintly and beautiful, stands the Church of Madonna del Sasso, a pilgrimage site where you can get breathtaking views of the town and surrounding hinterland. Stretching further on lies the lush green valleys of Verzasca and Maggia, both of which boast amazing views and hiking paths. Nearby, at the Verzasca Dam, you can go bungee-jumping down a 220m drop, the selfsame drop used in the film GoldenEye.
This, unsurprisingly, is a popular spot so to ensure a room at one of the best places to stay in Locarno be sure to plan your trip well in advance.
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Locarno (Minusio)
This hotel marries amazing views of the stunning Lago Maggiore with a stylish boutique feel that offers simple but attractive design features. Upon the lake, guests are encouraged towards a number of watersports, including fishing. The restaurant offers fine cuisine, and bicycles are free to hire.
Locarno
A chic retreat perched above Locarno with panoramic lake views. Simple yet stylish rooms offer plush bedding and contemporary furnishings. The restaurant is fantastic and the spa, garden and swimming pool add a rejuvenating touch. The ideal choice for a sophisticated getaway with a touch of luxury.
Locarno
Villa Orselina is a blissful hotel overlooking Lake Maggiore and the Alps. The deluxe white on white rooms, feature floor to ceiling windows and lavish bathrooms. With an extensive spa and three restaurants you will be well taken care of. Perfect for a romantic break by the lake.
