Winter in Ticino? A truly exceptional experience! Instead of snow-covered plains, the Lake Maggiore region welcomes you with camellias in full bloom, sunshine in place of fog, and pleasantly mild temperatures rather than biting cold. On the lake, thousands of sparkling diamonds twinkle in the sunlight, framed by peaks dusted with icing sugar. A touch of winter magic infused with Mediterranean charm — all in Switzerland’s sunniest corner.
Cardada Cimetta lies just ten minutes by cableway above the centre of Locarno. In winter, Locarno’s snow-capped local mountain invites visitors to enjoy its serene beauty — the perfect spot to spend a few hours immersed in nature. One of its highlights is the observation platform that offers breathtaking 360° views over Lake Maggiore and the Ascona-Locarno region.
From here, you can see both the highest (Dufourspitze, alt. 4634 m) and lowest (Lake Maggiore, alt. 193 m) point of Switzerland. The summit offers short walks and even official snowshoe trails. The restaurant terrace is a good place to stop for a bite to eat and soak up some sun.
Back in the city, as you leave the valley station, you have the feeling of returning to an almost surreal world: pleasantly mild temperatures, birds chirping, and magnificent camellias in full bloom.
Walking in nature is nourishment for both body and soul. As daylight is in short supply, it’s even more important to recharge with the energy of the sun and fresh air. And if the weather’s on your side, why not head out on a cycling tour? During winter, the region also becomes a magnet for climbers and boulderers, who prefer tackling the region’s wonderful crags and boulders at this time of year, rather than in the summer heat. And of course, relaxation is not forgotten either: a hot bath or a soothing massage is just the thing after a day spent in the fresh air.
One of our main insider tips for the winter is Monte Verità and its Casa del tè. The historical hill above Ascona is home to one of the world’s northernmost tea plantations, complete with a delightful Japanese style tea house and a terrace, where you can read a book, surrounded by greenery, while sipping the locally grown tea. Visiting on the right day, it’s even possible to take part in a traditional tea ceremony - an experience not to be missed!
Anyone yearning for tobogganing and alpine/cross-country skiing rather than mild temperatures, lakeside strolling and cafe culture should make a beeline for Bosco Gurin and Mogno: these compact winter resorts are no great distance from the lake and are popular with beginners as well as more advanced winter sports aficionados.
For those who find the mild temperatures, lakeside strolls, and coffee in the sunshine a little too relaxing — or perhaps too reminiscent of summer — there’s plenty of winter adventure just a stone’s throw from the lake. When the snow falls, the piste bashers in Bosco Gurin and Mogno roar into action, preparing perfectly groomed slopes for both beginners and seasoned skiers alike.
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