Ascona

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.

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. TThe 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.