Late Summer in Ticino

While fall is gradually arriving north of the Alps, in Ticino, summer lingers a little longer. 

Join us as we take you on relaxing hikes alongside crystal-clear rivers, to open air and luxurious wellness oases, to gastronomic discoveries, and to music festivals that range from classical to techno.

You can hike and marvel at nature almost anywhere in Ticino. But only on the Legend Trail can you explore the forest through play. The loop trail is located in Gerra Verzasca and is suitable for families and hikers. Along this interactive trail, which takes about 1.5 hours to complete, you can discover legends, local stories, games, and sculptures. By scanning the QR codes on the signs, you can read and listen to stories of talking animals, witches, goblins, devils, and saints that bring the forests, mountains, alpine pastures, villages, the river, and the caves of the Verzasca Valley to life.

On stages 2 and 6, you’ll come to a picnic area with tables and games. In between, gravel banks and swimming spots invite you to take extended breaks. And if you allow enough time for play, you can easily turn a two-hour hike into a half-day of fun.

Those wanting to know why people in southern Switzerland like to linger a little longer should visit a traditional restaurant – known locally as a "grotto" – or in the plural, "grotti". Perhaps these age-old Ticino restaurants now resonate with our longing for simplicity more than ever before. And while food trends come and go, they’ve remained here, unfazed, for many generations.

Grotti were originally small stone cellars where wine, cheese, and other foods stayed naturally cool. Many were later converted into restaurants built into rocks or under trees, with granite tables and a kitchen that prefers to ignore fads and trends. 

The following four examples illustrate just how much beauty can be found in such simplicity: The Grotto America in Ponte Brolla nestles between rocks and the Maggia River – and has a history that extends far beyond Ticino. It owes its name to Ticino emigrants who would enjoy a good meal here before embarking on their journey to America. At the Grotto Raffael in Losone, the gnocchi is still prepared on-site, while meat from Ticino goes into the cooking pots for the brasato. Further south, in the foothills of Monte Generoso, the polenta at the Grotto Bundi in Mendrisio cooks over an open fire and is served with meat, game or mushrooms. For those who prefer to venture further down the valley for lunch, meanwhile, the Ristorante La Froda in Foroglio has a menu that consistently reflects the seasons. In September, venison and chamois are among the dishes on offer, while just a few steps away, an impressive waterfall cascades over the rocks.

Wellness in Ticino has two key destinations: nature and hotels. Two particularly beautiful examples of wellness without entrance fees or bathrobes lie to the north of the Ceneri Pass. Near Biasca, the waters of the Cascata di Santa Petronilla tumble to the valley over several cliff edges. It is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Ticino, and the natural pools at its base are more refreshing than any plunge pool. Equally beautiful is the Cascata della Piumogna in Faido, where the water cascades down 40 meters and the rocks serve as sunbathing areas. 

Those seeking a traditional day at the beach with good facilities are likely to find it on the northern shores of Lake Maggiore at the Lido di Magadino. The sandy beach, the gentle slope into the water and the plentiful space make this bathing area particularly popular with families. The lido welcomes visitors until the end of September.

Those who prefer a more luxurious experience might well find it at the dipiù spa at the Hotel Giardino Ascona. Here, a heated indoor and outdoor pool, a sauna area, massages, and Ayurvedic treatments using regional ingredients await guests. This elegant facility is also open to day guests. 

Another spa highlight is the Parkhotel Delta Wellbeing Resort in Ascona, with its large outdoor pool in the park. 

At the Splash & Spa adventure pool in Rivera, meanwhile, the whole family can find something to enjoy, with action and relaxation available side by side. Good to know: With your American Express Card, you benefit from a 20% discount on admission. View the offer here.