Sunshine, palm trees and snow-capped mountains. Winter on the shores of Lake Maggiore is the mildest in Switzerland, making it the ideal destination for a winter holiday with the children – their desire to run around and play in the open air will be satisfied to the full. And if you happen to miss the snow, you can still take a trip up into the mountains and discover the charming villages in the valleys, where you’ll find the white winter wonderland waiting for you. Or, until 6 January, immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of Winterland in the heart of Locarno – glide around the ice rink or have fun with a game of ice mini-golf.
Winter in town is sun-kissed and characterised by extremely mild temperatures, perfect for dining outside on restaurant terraces, perhaps even enjoying a delicious Swiss fondue. If you’ve decided to spend your winter holiday here in the region with your family, take advantage with some lovely outdoor walks, such as the one that runs alongside the Maggia river or takes you to Monte Verità, or visit natural areas such as the Bolle di Magadino. A trip into the Centovalli on the train that goes from Locarno to Domodossola, the Centovallina, is an ideal activity in all weathers and temperatures. The landscape you can admire through the window is breathtaking in any season. Back in town, you can enjoy winter with a spin around one of the ice rinks.
Talking of mysteries and intrigue, Escape Rooms are a great way to spend your free time in the winter. Some, such as the Sato Code adventures in Locarno and Ascona, take place around the city, in the outdoors, with the benefit of introducing you to secret corners and showing you some hidden gems. If you’re keen to climb a little higher and enjoy some snow, why not go to Cardada, Locarno’s local mountain that can be reached in just a few minutes from the centre by funicular and cable car. On Cardada, there are plenty of activities for children to enjoy, with or without snow: sledging, playing on the playground, or exploring the viewing platform and marvelling at the panorama over Lake Maggiore. If you want to go a little further afield and find a real winter village teeming with wooden homes and plenty of atmosphere you can reach Bosco Gurin in about an hour from Locarno. It’s the highest village in Ticino and, in heavy snow, you can even ski there.
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