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Press Kit -.com Welcome to Ascona-Locarno!

Welcome to Ascona-Locarno, a lake and moun- tain holiday destination with an intriguing mix of Swiss quality and Mediterranean atmosphere. The lakeside towns and villages, with their natu- ral elements and architectural treasures, offer a neat atmosphere, exclusive and lively at the same time, thanks to their colorful piazzas, their restau- rants and shops as well as markets and a rich cul- tural program. Are you looking forward to knowing more about

our beautiful region? Browse the press kit and let Town Old Locarno, yourself be inspired by our highlights!

Why Ascona-Locarno? • Not for tourists but for explorers • 2’300 hours of sunshine a year • 1’400 km / 870 mi of hiking trails • 500 and more events per year • Swiss quality and Mediterranean style.

Learn more on ascona-locarno.com/media Contact us at [email protected] Follow us on AsconaLocarnoTurismo asconalocarno ascona_locarno us Join

Isole di Brissago

Porto Ronco Lyon Ronco s/Ascona (F ) Genève Freiburg Sion Ber n (D Torino Valle ) Züric Locarno Ascona– (I) Luzer h n St. Galle

Ascona Milano n M Chur ünchen (I)

Losone Innsbruck (D)

Gambarogno (A) Cities and from Locarno Distances to Vallemaggia Lausanne Zurich Basel

Locarno

425 272 257 374 197 118 mi km 264 160 169 122 215 73 4h00 3h00 5h15 4h30 2h30 2h30 2h00 1h30 3h15

Minusio 4h30 3h30 3h30

Thanks to AlpTransit, the longest tunnel in the world,

If you check-in in a hotel, youth hostel or camping you

Brione S/ and ensures discounts on cable cars, navigation

receive the Ticket, which allows you

you reach our destination in record time.

to benefitfrom free publictransportation Airports Lugano-Agno Malpensa Milano Airport Int. Linate Milano

and many tourist attractions. Lago Maggiore 130 213 115 mi km 39 132 80 24 71 1h30 0h50

Valle 2h45 1h45 2h15

Tenero

3h00 3h45 -

Gordola Facts & Figures Robiei Geographic position Mogno Altitude: 195.50 m/618.50 ft above sea level. Locarno Piano di

and its surrounding coutryside are at a distance S.Carlo Peccia of 25 km/15 mi from the most important European Prato Sornico a aara North–South rail link and miroad arteries. a aona Broglio Foroglio Surface: 212 km / 131 mi Perimeter: 170 km / 105 mi Length: 64 km/ 39 mi Cavergno Last flood: November 16th, 2014 with 196.41 m / 644 ft a oana Verzasca Bosco Gurin Climate Cerentino Riveo Mild throughout the year with lush subtropical Linescio vegetation. Considerable hours of sunshine, but with Campo Verzasca aemaa moderate intensity. Mild temperatures with little Cimalmotto a Campo ae erasa daily variations. Light to moderate winds and gentle Giumaglio fall in temperature with little fluctuations in the year. Coglio Temperature measurement in degree Celsius (°C). Lodano Languages Moghegno The national languages of are Temperature °C Aurigeno Salei German (63%), 30 ae nsernone Avegno Berzona French (23%), Loco 25 Russo Cimetta Italian (8%) Cardada 20 Romansh (0.8%). Spruga Tegna Contra Brione Agarone 15 Tenero Bellinzona Locarno is located in the Italian-speaking part. Comino Orselina Besides their mother tongue, most Lake Maggiore 10 Verdasio Minusio Riazzino Golino -Gerra Muralto Region inhabitants speak German, French 5 Centoa Corcapolo Arcegno oarno and some English. Rasa 0 Bellinzona (I) Ronco sona uartino

July s/Ascona G. June May Tipping April August Isole January Porto Ronco

October Rivera February di Brissago S.Nazzaro December November A service charge is included in restaurant and hotel September Brissago bills as well as taxi fares. An extra tip is not expected, Gerra Gambarogno Ranzo amarono but is appreciated for good service. Hours of sun Lugano Alpe di Neggia 300 (I) (I) 250 200 150 100 50 0 July June May April March August January October February December November September ao aore Ascona, the pearl of Lake Maggiore. L ake promenade – A scona Today it is an exclusive tourist As soon as you catch a glimpse of the Ascona destination, a lakeside paradise; Ascona-Locarno lakefront, the colorful lakeside houses, its extraordinary history is filled with which imbue the scenery with a Mediterrane- ascona-locarno.com art and culture. an character, will impress you. It is the ideal The city of film on Lake Maggiore location for relaxation, taking walks is Locarno; with culture, lake and enjoying the splendid sunset on the lake. and mountains you run no chance of getting bored. It is the perfect desti- Old Town – Locarno nation for your holidays, whether you plan on relaxing or you are look- Discover the old and most characteristic part ing for pure entertainment. of the town of Locarno. The Visconteo Castle with the Rivellino, a bulwark attested as a Discover our towns Leonardo da Vinci work, beautifully shaped windowsills, some charming portals, the Downloading the free app iziTravel and courtyards and small gardens surrounded listening to the audio guides will allow you to by bright arcades. discover history and traditions of Locarno’s and Ascona’s historic centre. The selfguided The Thursday’s market in Locarno has been Taste My Swiss City tours address people’s taking place on the Piazza Grande since 1164. desire to get to know a city from a local’s The historic townhouse Negromante perspective, in gastronomic terms. it is considered the oldest house

of Locarno (14 th century). Piazza Grande – Locarno With its typical arcades it is one of the most famous town squares in Switzerland and, during the Festival del Film Locarno, trans- forms itself into the most wonderful open-air cinema in the world. This is a meeting place as well as the heart of the town where the main commercial and cultural activities take place, like the weekly market every Thursday and the Moon & Stars concerts. Lungolago G. Motta, AsconaMotta, G. Lungolago

Where the landscape lives of great Hiking for families contrasts and the villages, which Kids grow up putting one foot in front of the cling to the roughness of the moun- Hiking year other. Our family-friendly routes create tains, are accompanied by the refined harmony among the generations: they hide ascona-locarno.com/excursions cities on the lake, every corner can natural wonders and tiny mysteries for young open glimpses of an unexpect ed pan- adventurers, touch on sites rich in culture, orama. Pull on your backpack and help you get to know the region and promote head for the Alpine huts, the most pic- family bonding. turesque starting point for your mountain adventures.

The High Routes Providing challenges for expert hikers, the vie alte hiking routes of the Vallemaggia, the and Idra link different Alpine huts along demanding stages immersed in the extreme silence of nature, far from the hustle-and-bustle of city life. Up in the mountains, the journey is your destination.

App hikeTicino Always carry the most beautiful hiking trails with you. Thanks to the hikeTicino app, which can be downloaded on your mobile devices and is usable offline, you can choose between more than 200 itineraries in Ticino. Water fall Mondada, Val Bavona If you are looking for a stroll along the lake or for a hike up to the mountains, hikeTicino gives you a wide choice of paths and points of interest.

The Basodino region At the bottom of the captivating Val Bavona, the largest glacier in Ticino is surrounded by a fascinating mountain landscape rich in granite and gneiss. During the summer months the San Carlo-Robiei cable car pro- vides an opportunity to enjoy the spectacle of the water, ice and minerals at their best as they sparkle in the sunshine. Life is better outdoors outdoors ascona-locarno.com/outdoor better is Life

Islands (193 m.a.s.l.) as well as the highest

in Switzerland, Ascona and the Brissago

From Cardada-Cimetta you can enjoy

the view of both the lowest point

point, the Monte Rosa massif

(Piz Dufour, 4’634 m.a.s.l.).

View from Monte Gambarogno lack of water on this side of the valley. side of the of on water this lack periodic the to ease used system water ing long-stand to the witness bear troughs and way, the Along wells summer. for the tures pas on to mountain continuing before spring the would spend animals and shepherds where pasture routes up to the shumance - tran you along takes trail ethnographic The Verzasca – Revöira homely houses. and of dark village a small of Indemini, village of the stone roofs the and beauties natural heritages, cultural and tistic ar find you will descent the Along Maggiore. of Lake beauty the all and entire the encompasses that a view with hike A great Monte Gambarogno Valle Onsernone verdant and world: dreamlike the over the all from writers and loved artists by most valley the along for km 12 stretches that itinerary A circular lake. Alpine Valley From to Vergeletto pretty Salei’s Onsernone – Salei witnesses to centuries-old history. findmore typical villages, important waterfalls and forests. Here you will impressive peaks, Alpine lakes, becomes more wild, characterized by into the valleys, the landscape Leaving the lake area and moving up

- - - with some cute woolly llamas for company. llamas woolly some cute with trails its walking is experience real but the onor cable foot by car, reached be only can mountain The Maggiore. Lake as far as views with a landscape characterise buildings farm rustic and flowers with scented is air the meet, tradition and nature where discovered, to be a world waiting is just Monte Comino Lama Trekking world’s the origins. with touch in back put you will that trips one of those this make Foroglio waterfall of the views postcard ture pic and cliffs breath-taking bridges, arched boulders, Gigantic region’s mountains. the shaped have that of nature whims the all of agglomeration an is valley particular This Val Calnègia - The lef t bank of L ake Maggiore has been blessed with extraordinary Gambarogno lakeside shores, enchanting hills and small picturesque villages. ascona-locarno.com/gambarogno I t is a region of tradition and pleasant scents, which offers a botanical park The thatched roofs of Centocampi were used with a magnificent view and the until after the Second World War to cover unique natural reserve of the Bolle stables and barns, but after the 1960s, di Magadino (water meadowland). the technique and materials needed became Walking trails wind along the hills increasingly difficult to find. Only a single stable with a thatched roof now remains. and valleys, through chestnut woods and thriving meadows.

Indemini Located at 930 m.a.s.l., connected to the rest of the Gambarogno region by a road only since 1917, the village of Indemini has retained its characteristic agglomerate mountain. Houses leaning against each other and arranged along the contour lines, stone roofs, arcades exposed to the sun have survived the passage of time and witness the skill with which the inhabitants of the past have built their houses and cattle sheds. Vira Gambarogno Botanical Garden of Gambarogno This magnificent botanic garden is located in the Gambarogno area on a hillside between Piazzogna and Vairano. Otto Eisenhut, a patient and talented cultivator of plants and trees, cultivated thousands of beautiful and colorful flowering plants like 950 types of camellias, 350 different magnolias, azaleas, peonies and Rhododendron on a surface of more than 20’000 m2.

Bolle di Magadino Between the mouth of the Verzasca and the Magadino plain, there is a precious and renowned wildlife refuge. The Bolle di Maga- dino, one of nine water meadow landscapes considered by the Swiss Academy for Natural Science to be of international importance, includes the delta of the Ticino and Verzasca river at Lake Maggiore.

This narrow Alpine valley has pre- Sonogno and the Wool Center

served an authentic character, Characterized by typical stone houses and immersed in an idyllic natural atmos- Verzasca Valley tiny roads, Sonogno is the last village of phere. In the summer, the emerald the Verzasca Valley. ascona-locarno.com/valle-verzasca waters of the Verzasca river attract Worthy of note are the ancient village oven, many bathers. A wide range of which is still used sometimes and the wool walking trails lead up to the higher center (run by the Pro Verzasca organization, mountains. The more adventurous which is responsible for dyeing, carding and visitors can challenge themselves spinning the wool). The finished products are with a bungee jump at the Verzasca sold in the town’s craft shops. dam, a pure adrenaline experience on the trail of James Bond.

Tenero

With its 4 and 5 star campsites, Tenero is a real camping paradise on the north shore of Lake Maggiore, at the entrance of the Verzas- ca valley. In Tenero there is the National Youth Sports Centre, a true paradise for ath- letes and a prestigious cultural and architec- tural heritage.

L aver t ezzo and the Pont e dei salti

The bridge ponte romanico also called Ponte dei salti (jump bridge) crosses the Ver- Ponte dei Salti, LavertezzoSalti, dei Ponte zasca river in Lavertezzo and is a typical medi- eval construction made of stone. After its partial destruction occurred in 1868, it was reconstructed in 1960. Close to the bridge, you can admire a chapel from the VXIII century.

Goldeneye Bungee Jumping

The 220 m /721 ft high dam of the Verzasca Valley not only famous for being the highest dam in Europe, but also because it was the setting for the opening scene of the James With its 14 inhabitants (2018), Corippo Bond movie Goldeneye starring Pierce Bro- is the smallest village in Switzerland. It has snan. According to the global surveys, Bond’s also been declared a national monument leap from the Verzasca dam is considered because of the value of its cultural heritage the best stunt in film history. The Maggia Valley, with its spectacu- Bosco Gurin lar mountains, is a vast Alpine valley Situated at 1’503 m.a.s.l., it is the highest modeled on glaciers. Located in the M a g g i a V a l l e y mountain village and the only “German- basin of the valley, you will discov- speaking” settlement in Ticino, one of Swit- ascona-locarno.com/vallemaggia er typical villages made up of stone zerland’s most charming villages. In win- houses. On warm summer days ter the destination offers fun and sports in a the river’s cool waters offer a source unique alpine landscape. of welcome refreshment, thanks to the many beaches located on its banks. The secluded nature, water, and the rocky landscape are complemented by the simple yet excellent gastronomic offer of the region’s many local grottos.

Lodano Valley

The huge forest reserve recognised for its bio- diversity is home to more than 680 plant and animal species. Chestnut, lime, oak, larch, white spruce and the famous ancient beech

forests make the Lodano Valley a paradise for Mogno and its church birds, raptors, Alpine ibex, marmots and even humans. Built between 1992 and 1996, it was designed by Mario Botta and rises on the remains th

Bosco Gurin of the original 15 century church destroyed by an avalanche. The contemporary building stands out among the traditional houses of the village because of its cylindrical shape cut in a diagonal and for the decorative use of stone.The force conveyed by the walls In the Bavona Valley, where a large amount of the church are nicely balanced by the light- of electric power is produced, there is no ness of the glass cover. electricity, with the exception of San Carlo. The waterfall of Foroglio, rushing down a 80 m /262 ft, is amazing.

Sculpture School in Peccia

The Sculpture School located in the upper Vallemaggia represents a piece of the ancient Ticino and is therefore absolving an impor- tant task. In fact the School, which offers sev- eral courses, established itself thanks to the great quantity of raw material, in particular Cristallina-Marble the only white-marble in Switzerland, available up there. Since 2001 the Sentiero delle sculture, a sculpture exhibi- tion, is located in the heart of Peccia. You will find two evocative valleys Vergeletto and the farina bóna and their traditional villages only A typical product made in the valley since the a few kilometers from the lake. Centovalli mid-19th century, farina bóna is a toasted corn Discover the beauties of the Centoval- flour with a mysterious popcorn smell. It is also li “The Valley of Hundred Valleys”, the practical demonstration of the resilience and Onsernone Valley travelling on the train that runs of Ticinese traditions: on the verge of disap- ascona-locarno.com/centovalli through its villages. The Onsernone pearing, the secrets of its production have been Valley, with its noble houses, old mills ascona-locarno.com/onsernone handed down and its rarity now makes it a and thick forests, is the ideal destina- sought-after gourmet ingredient. tion for those who are seeking tranquility and originality. For years, The highest bell tower of the in fact, the valley has attracted artists Canton Ticino is located in the village and writers. of Intragna: built in 1775 and with

a height of 65 m/213 ft. Centovallina Railway The two-hour journey from Locarno to Do- modossola with the Centovallina is the short- est and most beautiful connection between Lake Maggiore, Canton of and Berne, the capital. This panoramic train journey, passing deep gorges and crevices with glitter- ing cascading waterfalls, travels across color- ful alpine meadows, over numerous bridges. Berzona straw hats Until the mid-19th century, straw processing was the main activity in the Valle Onsernone. Rasa, Onsernone Valley Onsernone Rasa,

So as not to lose this important tradition, even today six artisans still continue process- ing and weaving straw at the Pagliarte association laboratory-cum-shop in Berzona. As well as the famous traditional straw hats, modern hats in every colour imaginable, bags, belts, gifts and plenty more are also available.

Theater Dimitri Welcome to the world of Clown Dimitri! Located in Verscio, the Teatro Dimitri – whose name is undoubtedly linked to the Dimitri family – aims to become a center away from the center, by exploring the rich artistic potential of the area as well as the natural surroundings. The Comic Museum offers masks and games of all kinds, all related to the world of comedy and circus. ascona-locarno.com/sport Sport

Longlake, Locarno-Muralto Maggiore. of Lake roundings sur amazing the by off rounded all parks, and paths to field lanes curvy and narrow from discovery: a new is mile Every trails. running best the order to discover in off set on and shoes training your Get ly routine. dai the from a break taking by mountains the and lake the outdoor between Enjoy your stay Running to much ride! so is there singletrail, technical most route to the easy From an region. of the corners hidden the to discover Switzerland by recognized officially trails bike mountain Three region’s valleys. up our or climb riverbanks and shores Maggiore Lake the youalong to ride allows territory diverse and vast incredibly this grade): (20 % trail trails bicycle or hilly flat both and a year of sunshine 2,300 hours with climate a mild views, Breathtaking MTB and Bike rafting, complete the rich offer. and rivers, such as canyoning and numerous water activities on the lake to play golf all year round and the climate is furthermore an invitation and mountain bike tours. The mild nature ide is perfect for hiking, the bicycle fers of and y activities. The extraordinary erritor t al environment for numerous varied sports a Such Mobility

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porate functions. functions. porate cor and societies visitors, for members, tions condi excellent offer setting, natural and a Mediterranean in planned well technically Two golfers. passionate 18-hole courses, golf for destination important an years, recent in become, has region Ascona-Locarno The Golf bathing resort inTicino. modern most and equipped best the sents repre Locarno Lido the Maggiore, Lake on the games and slides water pools, swimming outdoor and indoor baths, thermal its with year, all Open lakeshore. on a beautiful located and theme water the around designed relaxation, and sport for leisure, oasis dinary extraor an as itself presents Locarno Lido The Lido Locarno

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Termali Salini & Spa, Locarno the vital energy. energy. vital the awaken and peace inner you strength, give forest the in experience the colors and and of shapes variety great The two. the interlink to and individual the with nature to unite Yoga The aims Trail sections. nine into tured struc is path yoga the and energy, strong its for known place is This da Grüm. you to Sass leads walk a pleasant Vairano, from Starting trail Yoga Salini. Termali restaurant Bistro Spa and at the of well-being moments of relaxation, world-an oasis Sauna atmosphere, Mediterranean Ticino, Spa in saltwater largest at the life everyday from break A short time. forget regenerate, Relax, Termali Salini & Spa destination for relaxing holidays. nature make this region the perfect special energy fieldsimmersed in sport or wellness structures and Luxury Spas in renowned hotels, lake, emanating calm and serenity. offer thermal pools that look onto the The modern bathing infrastructures with unforgettable panoramic views. wellness experience can be enjoyed In the Ascona-Locarno region, the

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Locarno au Lac, Palma • La Locarno-Orselina Orselina, • Villa Ascona • Hotel Giardino, Ascona Roc, • Hotel Eden Sole del , Ascona • Castello Wellness hotels heritage. cultural and history in rich a land lead you to experience will that journey enjoy a mystical valleys, surrounding the and area Gambarogno the in da Grüm Sass to the Locarno in Sasso del Madonna Mount of the Sacred the and of Truth) Ascona in Monte Verità (Hill From the perceived. be can nature and Earth the of power both positive the where spots, energy many find you can region our In Energetic places Ascona Delta, • Parkhotel

Churches, Sacred Mountains, ancient Monte Verità buildings, museums and art galler- Monte Verità stands on the hills overlooking ies: they all tell the story and history Culture Ascona and Lake Maggiore and has always of the Lake Maggiore region. A few been a magnet for ideas, trends, experiments ascona-locarno.com/culture more noteworthy locations: the old and historical figures. The Monte Verità, towns of both Ascona and Locarno purchased by the Baron Eduard von der Hey- and the Monte Verità where, starting dt, became a modern hotel complex, visited from the 1900s, many intellectuals by high-profile figures from the worlds of art, and artists came together in search of politics and culture. alternative values and lifestyles. Visconteo Castle Sacred Mount Madonna del Sasso The Castello Visconteo, now an archaeologi- The Sacred Mount Madonna del Sasso is one cal museum, is located on the edge of the old of the most important religious and historical town and was built in the XII century, proba- sites in the canton of Ticino. Leaning on a bly as the residence of a Captain Orelli, who spectacular outcrop of rock, the Sanctuary remained true to the Emperor. In 1260, it fell of the Madonna del Sasso is preceded by a In our region there are 22 museums, into the hands of the Ghibellini. In 1342 the 7 theaters and more than 40 art galleries: large square from which you can see the deep Visconti of Milan, for whom it is now named, a wide choice for all art lovers. and wild valley. Next to the church, a porch attacked the castle from both the land and allows you to enjoy a fantastic view over the lake side and took it. It first came into the Locarno, the lake and the surrounding moun- hands of the Eidgenossen in 1503. Today, tains. only a fifth of the original structure remains and dates from the XV and XVI centuries. Cultural Pass Only the foundation remains from the origi- Thanks to the Cultural Pass Ascona-Locarno, nal structure. art lovers who visit one of the museums partic- ipating to the program (Pinacoteca Casa Rusca, Ghisla Art Collection, Musei comunali Madonna del Sasso, Orselina Sasso, del Madonna di Ascona, Monte Verità) get a 20% discount on the admission to the other partner muse- ums. The combined entry ticket can be used on different days within its validity date. Parks & Gardens ascona-locarno.com/parks Gardens & Parks

Brissago Islands beautiful gardens of Switzerland. of Switzerland. gardens beautiful most the together brings which network, of Switzerland Gardens of the part is and designation of Excellence Gardens Society Camellia International the received park 2010 March the In 130 doubleand camellias. camellias, 70 unidentified yet are there hybrids, perfumed ten and species different about forty including camellias of catalogued 850 varieties features: botanical precious to its and value landscape to its both thanks attraction, international an become has park the (ICS). opening, its Since Congress World Society Camellia International of the occasion 2005 on the in Locarno in inaugurated was Park Camellia stunning The Camellia Park variety of our botanical gardens. will be surprised by the beauty and you are a lover of nature or not, you a nature-immersed holiday. Whether and games are typical moments of walks, picnics, pure relaxation, fun meeting place for people of all ages: the blossom time. The park is a places to relax, walk or simply enjoy thriving floraand green areas: ideal Lake Maggiore region favors a The Mediterranean climate of the

è Magadino di & Bolle Gambargono del Parco network. of Switzerland Gardens of the part is Monte Verità Park The tea. black and for green material raw the provide leaves whose plants Sinensis 1’000made Camellia up of around ofaddition a plantation tea the by enriched was park the 2006 von der Heydt. In Eduard baron the by colony purchased later and vegetarian of the founders the by created was area uncontaminated an in of a century story the tells which foot, square m2/775’000 72’000 of more than park wooded great The Park Verità e Mont tion of the gardens in 1885. 1885. in gardens of the tion founda the since selected carefully been has which collection a botanical offer Brissago Isole di The plants. different 1’700 over include gardens the lake of the middle the in islands of the position the and climate special to the Thanks 5 continents. all from flowers and plants on with 2,5 ha oasis an island, on an garden botanical Unique Swiss See chapter Gambarogno. chapter See

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A family-friendly destination with Treasure hunts green areas where kids can run free, A new treasure hunt in Tenero joins the four play, and enjoy all sorts of leisure Family already existing ones to complete the already activities and beautiful nature. It is existing and very attractive offer for families. ascona-locarno.com/family not by chance that the region has The treasure hunts in Ascona-Locarno lead been awarded the “Family Destina- to the discovery of the most enchanting tion” quality seal of the Swiss corners of the region: from the top of Carda- Federation. Beaches, swim- da-Cimetta to the Brissago islands, through ming pools, large playgrounds the Old Town of Locarno, the cobbled streets and entertainment for the youngest It is possible to discover the region of Ascona and the beaches of Tenero. thanks to seven beautiful lamas will contribute to your unforgettable on a half- or more-days trekking? holidays!

Falconry Experience a close encounter with majestic birds of prey at the Falconry in Locarno, where you will be able to observe and photo- graph eagles, hawks, owls and vultures. These beautiful birds, flying free, will lead you into a dimension where man and nature meet, in a natural and animal friendly place. Enjoy the breathtaking show! Treasure hunt, Brissago Islands

Tamaro Park Would you like to spend an unforgettable day of adventure, fun and relax? With Tamaro Park it is possible! Tamaro Park is originated from the union of Splash & Spa Tamaro and , two unique attractions located in Rivera. Swimming pools, water slides, SPA Area, but also a coaster bob, pano- Adventure Park ramic excursions and much more thanks to this amazing package. The Adventure Park in Gordola is an acrobatic park hanging in the air. By means of installed cables, wooden and roped air platforms, the Park allows visitors to undertake a route among trees in all safety. Balance, concentra- tion, coordination and a basic fitness level are the necessary skills to succeed in the activity. The Ticino cuisine is rooted in the pre Panettone -Alpine tradition, based on regional Flour, butter, sugar and eggs are simple ingre- products. Our grottos are unique Gastronomy dients that worked by experienced hands, to the Canton of Ticino: rustic restau- become the symbol of Ticino’s confectionery ascona-locarno.com/gastronomy rants typically located in remote tradition: the panettone. It originally comes and shaded areas, where you can from Milan, where for centuries it is produced taste local dishes and products, only in the Christmas period. In Ticino in- together with a glass of good wine, stead, it is available all the year. all in a convivial atmosphere. In the region there are more than 15 restau- Rice rants awarded with Michelin Stars and Gault Millau points and more The only Swiss rice has been cultivated in As- than 20 which are mentioned in their cona since 1997 on the properties of the farm gourmet guides. Terreni alla Maggia SA, founded in 1930. This cultivation is the world’s northernmost rice Chestnuts plantation and the annual harvest equals N around 400 tons of rice. Terreni alla Maggia Nothing is more typical in Ticino than The sweet chestnut tree, was once known as the Grotto SA is not just the only cultivator of rice in : in the past it used to be a cellar, the “bread tree”, since chestnuts were one of today it is a simple tavern, in quiet hide Switzerland, but also the only one in Ticino the staple foods of Canton Ticino. Various away places, where tasty local products and- that produces Whisky. As with the rice, the methods were used to preserve the chestnuts, delicious wines are served. basis of this whisky grows on the delta of the one of the most common of these was a unique River Maggia. drying procedure: they were taken to a small,

two-storey stone building known as grà,where W ine and be ers they were dried slowly for several weeks above a fire kept at a constant temperature. The Lake Maggiore region offers a wide selec- tion of fine wines and craft beers produced by locals. The main grape variety to be found in Ticino is the Merlot, imported from France at the beginning of the 19th century. Second in line is the American grape, which is pri- marily used for the production of the grappa, a home-made liquor specialty.

Tor ta di pane The celebrated torta di pane is a cake made with stale bread and is a popular specialty in Ticino. What was once a way of using up lefto- vers has become a dessert masterpiece, which in its finest incarnations can also contain rai- sins, nuts and a shot of grappa. Camelie Locarno Moon&Stars Settimane Musicali March July di Ascona ascona-locarno.com/camellia moonandstars.ch September –October Events The most important Camellia One of the most important settimane-musicali.ch Show in Europe. A scientific exhi- open air festivals in Europe. Big- Big symphony orchestras, ascona-locarno.com/events bition showing over 250 variations name international classical chamber music and pop & rock bands perform single instrument recitals Festival Artisti di Strada concerts in the magnificent setting in the Churches Collegio Papio May of the Piazza Grande in Ascona and San Francesco artistidistrada.ch in Locarno Over 100 free shows presented by Luci e O mbr e mime artists, jugglers, fire-eaters July Every year the Lake Maggiore and clowns from all over the world ascona-locarno.com/events region hosts many events you Children’s entertainment, market, should not miss! Music festivals food & beverage, music and lots with international stars, of fun. Spectacular fireworks on an internationally renowned film Saturday night festival, entertainment for both children and adults, well-known Locarno Film Festival August sports events, gastronomic pardo.ch Triathlon Locarno festivals, traditional village fairs Locarno transforms itself into the September and much more. world capitol of cinema. Feature 3locarno.ch JazzAscona films and short films, the magical Official Swiss Triathlon Circuit June–July screenings in the Piazza Grande event with 3 categories on the jazzascona.ch as well as cultural events and program The only music festival in Europe, entertainment officially supported bythe City Festa delle Castagne During the Locarno Festival around of New Orleans. Music, rhythms October 8’000 people are seated in the Piazza Gran and flavours from the city on the ascona-locarno.com/events

de watching international movies - Locarno Moon&Stars,

Mississippi Over 2’000 kg/4’400 Ibs of roasted on one of the Europe’s biggest movie screen chestnuts over the open fire of the (26x14 m / 85x46 ft ). Vallemaggia Magic Blues maronatt, a market with typical re- July–August gional products and folk music, all magicblues.ch along the lake side promenade The beautiful town squares of the Vallemaggia villages stage this Ascona-Locarno Run festival, which offers ten evenings, Rombo Days October filled with sweeping music acts August ascona-locarno-run.ch harleyticino.ch An event dedicated to all motorcy- L o carno on I ce cle enthusiasts that offers oncerts, November–January stands, culinary delights and a locarnoonice.ch spectacular parad Igloo-bars, cabins offering culinary specialties, live music concerts, the Christmas treeand the magical ice skating rink Copyright photos Alessio Pizzicannella André Boss BlueWater Com Chrsi Burkard Dan Patitucci Daniele Oberti Enrico Pescantini Hotel Castello del Sole Ivana de Maria Massimo Pedrazzini Matteo Aroldi Michael Neumann Moon & Stars Festivals SA Rémy Steinegger Skipp Communications AG Switzerland Tourism Ticino Turismo Tom Malecha Wim Kempenaers

i Ascona-Locarno Tourism + 41 ( 0 ) 848 0 91 0 91 [email protected] www.ascona-locarno.com

Info desks: Ascona Viale Papio 5 Brissago Via Leoncavallo 25 Locarno-Muralto Stazione FFS/SBB/CFF Maggia Centro Commerciale Tenero Via al Giardino 3 Vira Gambarogno Via Cantonale 29