Locarno

Locarno lies at the northern tip of Lake Maggiore, in the canton of Ticino, close to the Italian border. The town enjoys a mild microclimate that supports palm trees and Mediterranean-style greenery along the lakeside. Its historic centre is built around Piazza Grande, an arcaded square that hosts the Locarno Film Festival each summer, with films screened on a large open-air screen. The Madonna del Sasso sanctuary, perched on the hillside above the town, is reached by funicular and offers wide views over the lake and surrounding area. The Castello Visconteo, a former fortress, now houses an archaeological and historical museum. Nearby, the Brissago Islands are home to a botanical garden reachable by boat from Locarno's harbour. The region also serves as a gateway to the Verzasca Valley, known for its turquoise waters and dam, as well as to the scenic Centovalli railway line leading into Italy. Locarno thus combines a lakeside setting, Ticino's distinctive architectural heritage and easy access to the surrounding Alpine landscape.