Splendid winter walk from Tenero to Ascona along Lake Maggiore and the Maggia. Walk, take a break, explore the surroundings, and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere. The Rivapiana path is flat and ideal in winter in any weather.
A beautiful walk to enjoy the sun and make the most of winter in the Mediterranean atmosphere of Ascona-Locarno. The entire route is just under 16 km, but the length can be shortened according to personal preference.
In Tenero, the route passes through the campsites on the lakeshore, which are closed in winter but remain accessible to everyone (from October 25 to March 25). A delightful setting with views of the snow-dusted mountains embracing Lake Maggiore, whose surface sparkles like thousands of diamonds under the sun.
Take time for a little break. Not far away, towards Locarno, the “Ca’ di ferro,” an old barracks, the charming little church of San Quirico, and numerous small beaches deserve a short stop to calmly enjoy the view and tranquility. If at any time you want to warm up with a hot drink or simply sit in the sun, there are many restaurants along the route—some serving a delicious Swiss cheese fondue directly by the lake.
In Locarno, even in winter you can find camellias adding a splash of color to the landscape with their bright flowers. It is possible to take a small detour to the Camellia Park before following the Maggia river to Ascona.
The road passes by the Golf Club of Ascona, an 18-hole golf course open all year round. From December to April (8:30 am to 5 pm), you can continue the route along the lake from Bagno Pubblico to the Lido. This long and scenic walk ends at Ascona’s picturesque lakeside promenade. If you haven’t taken a break along the way, now is the perfect moment to treat yourself to a well-deserved hot chocolate or an aperitif while enjoying the views of the lake and the stunning Brissago Islands.
