Ascona

Pearl of Lake Maggiore

Ascona is a true paradise with its direct lakeside location, palm trees and Mediterranean ambience. Characterised by history, art and culture, it is now a popular holiday resort and the characteristic lake promenade make the small town on Lake Maggiore a unique bijou. Even the first glance at the lake promenade reveals that Ascona is something special. Typical colourfully painted houses turn the former fishing village into a very particular place with Mediterranean flair that invites you to relax, stroll or enjoy a magnificent sunset over the lake.

  • The ancient village of Ascona

  • Ascona is an ancient village, rich with memories of its medieval and Renaissance history.

  • Ascona's privileged location and mild climate make it the perfect place to spend the balmy summer nights with theatre or music, or simply to dance the night away.

The traces of the artists who once inhabited the village on Lake Maggiore are omnipresent in the narrow streets, which all lead into the Piazza G. Motta on the lake. This is also the venue for JazzAscona, one of the most important international jazz festivals in Switzerland, which attracts thousands of music lovers every year and lets infectious southern rhythms resound in Ascona. But culture can also be found outside the historic centre, on the hill above Ascona, in the middle of nature. At the beginning of the 20th century, a group of free thinkers settled on Monte Verità in search of a spiritual refuge. A settlement that later attracted internationally renowned revolutionaries, philosophers, writers, poets and artists.

Shopping enthusiasts and foodies also get their money's worth in Ascona. Many boutiques and art galleries are hidden in the winding alleys of the village centre, called "Borgo". A weekly market has also been held in the piazza for many years, where local products and handicrafts can be bought. Many restaurants and bars adorn Ascona's colourful lakeside promenade. The spacious terraces not only offer space to enjoy some good food in the sun, they also create a wonderful atmosphere and the view of the Brissago Islands is simply unique. The gastronomic choice in Ascona is huge. From a simple grotto to an excellent Michelin-starred restaurant to a bar where to enjoy an aperitif, you'll find it all. In Ascona, great value is placed on local produce. So, it is not surprising that there is a public orchard called "Frutteto", where old and unusual plants also thrive. A place to meet, observe nature, relax and enjoy the sun-ripened fruit.

In Ascona, people live by the motto Dolce Vita, but there are still plenty of activities to do. For example, one of the most renowned 18-hole golf courses in Switzerland is located in Ascona. There are also various water sports on offer, such as sailing.

The enchanting Brissago Islands are just a stone's throw from Ascona by boat. An ideal excursion to enjoy the day on the lake and marvel at the botanical diversity of the islands. For those who prefer two wheels to the water, can also explore Ascona and the surrounding region by bike. A beautiful cycle path, over a new car-free bridge, leads to Locarno and even further to Bellinzona. Discover Ascona in your very own way and enjoy the sunny days in the beautiful town on Lake Maggiore.

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