Ascona

Ascona is a town in the canton of Ticino, on the shores of Lake Maggiore, known for its mild, almost Mediterranean climate and the palm-lined lakeside promenade of Piazza Motta. The old town, with its cobbled lanes and colourful houses, retains a distinctly Ticinese character, featuring buildings such as the Santa Maria della Misericordia church. Monte Verità, a former utopian colony from the early twentieth century now open as a museum and park, is a notable local landmark offering lake views and walking trails. Nearby, the Brissago Islands host a botanical garden reachable by boat from Ascona's harbour. Long favoured by artists and intellectuals, the town hosts the annual JazzAscona festival each summer, filling its streets and main square with music. Ascona also makes a convenient base for exploring Locarno, just a short distance away, as well as surrounding valleys such as the Verzasca Valley. Local cuisine highlights Ticino specialities including risotto, polenta and regional wines, served in the many lakeside terrace restaurants.