When you think Switzerland you can easily picture stunning landscapes, charming villages, and beautiful lakeside towns. Most of this postcard views are to be found in the central part of the country. Not everyone knows that some of the country’s most enchanting gems are found in the southern region, in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino.
If you’re looking for a picturesque, relaxing, and adventurous long weekend getaway, look no further than Valle Maggia, Val Verzasca, and Ascona. All three locations can be easily visited on a weekend and they offer an incredible blend of mountain beauty, crystal-clear rivers, historic villages, and lakeside charm. From hiking and swimming to exploring quaint towns and enjoying delicious food, this itinerary will guide you through an unforgettable weekend in one of Switzerland’s most beautiful corners.
Day 1: Ascona – Lakeside Charm and Sunset Views
Your long weekend starts in Ascona, a charming lakeside town on the shores of Lake Maggiore. Known for its Mediterranean vibe, colorful old town, and relaxed atmosphere, Ascona is the perfect base for your Ticino adventure.
Morning: Stroll Through Ascona’s Old Town
Upon arrival, start your day by exploring the cobbled streets of Ascona’s historical center. The town is full of charming shops, cafés, and boutiques, with buildings painted in warm Mediterranean colors that reflect the town’s Italian influence. Visit the Piazza Giuseppe Motta, the town’s lively square, which offers stunning views of Lake Maggiore. From here, you can enjoy a relaxed coffee by the water as you take in the beautiful surroundings.
Afternoon: Lakeside Activities
After your walk, spend your afternoon by the lake. Ascona is the perfect spot for water activities, whether you want to rent a boat or paddleboard and explore the shores of Lake Maggiore, or simply relax at one of the lakeside beaches. The waters here are calm and inviting, ideal for swimming or just soaking up the sun. If you’re feeling adventurous, hop on a boat tour of the lake to get a glimpse of nearby towns like Locarno and Brissago Islands, home to a botanical garden with exotic plants.
Evening: Dinner With a View
End your first day in Ascona with a delicious dinner at one of the town’s lakeside restaurants. Ristorante Riva or Locanda del Sole offer great Italian-inspired dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a glass of Ticino wine while watching the sunset over the lake.
Day 2: Valle Maggia – Nature, Hiking, and Waterfalls
The next day, head to Valle Maggia, a picturesque valley that’s often considered one of the most beautiful in the region. Valle Maggia is known for its stunning landscapes, lush forests, and crystal-clear, cold rivers that wind through the valley floor. It’s the perfect place for a refreshing swim.
Morning: Explore the Valle Maggia Villages
Start your day in Maggia, the valley’s main town, and explore its narrow streets and traditional stone houses. From here, you can easily access the valley’s many hiking trails and scenic viewpoints. Take some time to visit the beautiful Chiesa di San Giovanni in the nearby village of Avegno, a lovely church with stunning views of the valley. Don’t forget to explore Cevio, another charming village in the valley, where you can admire its traditional stone buildings and take a leisurely stroll.
Afternoon: Waterfalls and Hiking
Valle Maggia is home to several stunning waterfalls, including the Cascata del Salto and Cascata di Niva, which are easily accessible on foot. For a scenic and rewarding hike, head towards Cascata del Salto (near Bignasco). The waterfall cascades down into a beautiful pool, and the hike offers stunning views of the valley and the surrounding mountains. The hike is moderate, taking about 2-3 hours, and is perfect for families or those seeking a half-day adventure in nature.
If you’re up for more hiking, the Valle di Canobbio offers another great route that leads you through lush forests and along streams, where you can enjoy the peace and tranquility of the valley. Of course you can have a swim in the streams and in the water pools. Remember that, even in the middle of the hottest summer, the water is really cold. It’s also good to have the swim shoes with you as the streams are full of slippery stones.
Evening: Dinner in Maggia
After a day filled with outdoor adventures, head back to Maggia for dinner at one of the local restaurants. Enjoy a hearty meal of polenta with braised meats or cheese or a fresh fish dish from the nearby lake. The flavors of Ticino are a blend of Italian influences and Swiss traditions, making for a truly delicious experience.
Day 3: Val Verzasca – Stunning Scenery
On the final day of your long weekend, take a scenic drive to Val Verzasca, one of the most famous valleys in Ticino. Known for its dramatic scenery, crystal-clear waters, and iconic stone bridges, Val Verzasca offers an unforgettable experience that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard.
Morning: Visit the Ponte dei Salti
Start your day in Lavertezzo, a charming village located at the base of the valley. The highlight of Lavertezzo is the stunning Ponte dei Salti, a 17th-century stone bridge that spans the Verzasca River. The crystal-clear waters below and the backdrop of the surrounding mountains make this one of the most photographed spots in Ticino. Take your time to explore the area, walk along the river, and even take a refreshing dip in the clear waters if the weather is warm enough. Remember, the water will be cold anyway.
Afternoon: Hike and Explore the Valley
For those who enjoy hiking, Val Verzasca offers several beautiful trails. The Sentiero del Ponte dei Salti is a short, easy trail that follows the river and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding area. If you’re up for more of a challenge, the Verzasca Valley High Trail takes you through alpine meadows and offers stunning panoramas of the valley and mountains.
You can also explore the villages along the valley, such as Sonogno, a quaint, traditional village with stone houses and narrow streets. It’s the perfect place to stop for a coffee and take in the authentic Swiss village atmosphere.
Late Afternoon: Relax at Lago di Vogorno
Finish your day with a visit to Lago di Vogorno, a reservoir lake near Lavertezzo. The lake’s turquoise waters are incredibly scenic, and the peaceful surroundings make it a perfect spot to relax.
If you liked the sample of Ticino during your long weekend then why not planning for a longer trip to the region? There are plenty of places to see from Bellinzona Medieval Castles to Lake Ceresio and many gentle hikes crossing all the way to the border with Italy. Stay tuned becuase soon I will write more about this relatively unexplored region of Southern Switerland. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or someone looking to relax and unwind, Ticino has something special waiting for you.
How to get to Ascona?
Ascona has no train station but the town still can be reached by public transport. Unfortunately Valle Maggia and Val Verzasca, although served by a bus line, are not well connected. The bus schedule will not allow you to make the most of your day. Therefore, I advice either to arrive directly by car to the region or arrive by train to Locarno and rent a car there. The Swiss mobility service offers car sharing and it is the best solution for weekend getaways.
From Zurich (including Zurich Airport):
- By Train: Take a train from Zurich to Locarno (about 2 hours 15 minutes), then a short 15-20 min bus or taxi to Ascona.
- By Car: Drive south on the A2 and A13 highways, around 2 hours 30 minutes.
From Geneva:
- By Train: Take a train to Locarno with a transfer in Zurich or Bellinzona (around 4.5-5 hours), then bus or taxi to Ascona.
- By Car: A scenic drive along Lake Geneva and through the Alps (approx. 5 hours).
Where to stay?
Ascona and the valleys offer a range of accommodations which you can find on the main booking platforms. If you are looking for luxurious option by the lake, Hotel Eden Roc is a great choice. It offers stunning views of the lake and a private beach. Just a few steps away from the lake is Seven Boutique Hotel offering charming rooms in a modern version and in proximity to the main square.
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