Discover the surroundings



Let yourself be seduced by the charms of Ticino



Whether you choose to explore Locarno and its surroundings, take a cruise on Lake Maggiore, or discover the pristine beauty of the surrounding mountains, each day will be an unforgettable adventure. At Residenza Motta, you will have the perfect starting point to experience all these wonders!

Locarno: a jewel between the Alps and Lake Maggiore

Located on the shores of Lake Maggiore, Locarno is a city that harmoniously combines culture, history and natural beauty. With its mild climate, charming alleys and squares full of life, Locarno is the ideal destination for those seeking a combination of relaxation and discovery. The city is also known for its rich calendar of events, including the famous Locarno Film Festival, which attracts visitors from all over the world each year.

The beating heart of the city, famous for hosting the Locarno Film Festival and various events throughout the year.


© Shutterstock - SSKH-Pictures

Piazza Grande

One of the most striking locations, with breathtaking panoramic views of Locarno and Lake Maggiore.

Santuario della Madonna del Sasso

An ancient medieval fortress that tells the story of Locarno and now houses an archaeological museum.


© Shutterstock - Roman Babakin

Visconti Castle

Locarno film festival



Locarno also hosts internationally renowned events such as the Locarno Film Festival, attracting film and art enthusiasts from around the world.

© Shutterstock - Marlon Trottmann

Cities to visit



Ascona



Just a few kilometers from Locarno is Ascona, one of the most elegant towns in Ticino. Famous for its picturesque lakeside promenade and outdoor cafes, Ascona offers a relaxed and charming atmosphere with a rich cultural and artistic offering. Don't miss a stroll along the lakefront or a visit to the Church of St. Peter and Paul, located in its pretty central square.

Bellinzona



The capital of Canton Ticino, Bellinzona is famous for its three imposing castles, Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These fascinating medieval bastions offer a window into the region's history and are surrounded by enchanting trails and breathtaking views.

Lugano



About a 40-minute drive from Locarno is Lugano, a bustling city overlooking the lake of the same name. Here you can breathe in a mix of elegance and modernity, including upscale boutiques, world-class museums such as MASI (Museo d'Arte della Svizzera Italiana) and beautiful parks such as Parco Ciani. Perfect for a day of culture and shopping.

Lake Maggiore



Lake Maggiore is one of the most fascinating places in Switzerland and northern Italy. With its crystal clear waters surrounded by mountains and picturesque villages, it is a perfect destination for those seeking an oasis of tranquility or a starting point for adventurous explorations. You can take a cruise to the picturesque Brissago Islands, two lakeside jewels surrounded by nature, or enjoy a walk along the paths that run along the lake, taking in spectacular views.

Unforgettable experiences



The Verzasca Valley is famous for its emerald-green water river and enchanting landscapes. Some of the most exciting experiences include a plunge from the Ponte dei Salti bridge in Lavertezzo, the valley's landmark, or a hike along the river among picturesque villages and unspoiled nature.

Excursion to the Verzasca Valley

Enjoy a relaxing cruise on Lake Maggiore, taking in the breathtaking scenery of the Swiss and Italian shores. You can visit the Borromean Islands, a group of enchanting islands famous for their flower gardens and historic villas.

Cruise on Lake Maggiore

For mountain lovers, one of the most unforgettable experiences is the cable car ride from Locarno to Cimetta and Cardada. From here, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views encompassing Lake Maggiore, the Alps and even the Po Valley.

Cable car to Cimetta and Cardada

for nature lovers



Walks

From the scenic routes of the Wonder Trail, which passes through picturesque villages and forests, to the more challenging climbs to Mount Gambarogno with breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore, there is always a walk that will satisfy every hiker.

Rivers and Lakes

Lake Maggiore is the heart of the area, perfect for swimming, sailing and relaxing on its beaches. The more adventurous can explore rivers such as the Maggia River, which offers numerous spots for canyoning and fishing. Just a few miles away, Lake Vogorno is a hidden gem, with turquoise waters reflecting the majestic surrounding mountains.

Valleys

The Verzasca Valley is famous for its emerald-hued river and the Roman bridge at Lavertezzo. The Vallemaggia offers a unique mix of Alpine and Mediterranean culture, with historic villages and rushing waterfalls.

Nature Parks

You cannot miss the Locarnese National Park, which covers a vast and varied area with protected fauna and flora. The park is perfect for educational walks and themed trails, and also offers opportunities to observe rare plant and animal species. For a more relaxing experience, visit the Camellia Park, famous for its more than 900 varieties of flowering camellias.

Attractions

The Sanctuary of the Madonna del Sasso, perched on a hill, affords enchanting views of the town and the lake below. For film lovers, the famous Locarno Film Festival attracts visitors from all over the world every summer. Don't miss a stroll through the Pioda Gardens, where Mediterranean flora meets Alpine flair.

© Shutterstock - Marlon Trottmann

Events

In addition to the famous Locarno Film Festival, the most important film event in Switzerland, the city hosts Locarno on Ice during the winter, with a large ice rink on the Piazza Grande and musical evenings. There is no shortage of art exhibitions in the many local museums and events related to Ticino traditions such as the Camellia Festival in spring.