Top 10 fine-weather activities in Locarno: holidays in Ticino with friends & family

Falconeria Locarno: a paradise for birds of prey

Experience the fascinating world of birds of prey up close at the Falconeria Locarno. Here you can watch majestic falcons, eagles, owls, vultures, marabou storks, northern bald ibises and storks in free flight and at close range. Whether you want to observe the birds or photograph them, the Falconeria’s natural setting offers ideal conditions. Immerse yourself in the world of birds of prey and let their power and elegance carry you into a whole new dimension!

The Falconeria Locarno is an absolute highlight for animal lovers and families. Here you can not only admire impressive flight shows but also dive interactively into the fascinating world of these majestic birds of prey. This unique experience is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about these remarkable birds and get to know them at close quarters.

As a guest at La Palma au Lac, you’ll receive the Ticino Ticket at reception, giving you free use of public transport in the region and discounts at various attractions.

Boat trips on Lake Maggiore from Locarno

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Lake Maggiore is on a relaxing cruise. The journey begins in Locarno, where you board a boat and set off towards Gambarogno. Along the way you can enjoy the fresh air and feel the refreshing breezes off the lake. The view of the mountain of the same name, rising majestically above the shore, is simply breathtaking.

One of the most remarkable attractions along this route is the Gambarogno Botanical Park, a true treasure trove of beauty and diversity. Here you’ll find azaleas, rhododendrons, pines, junipers, ivy, exotic firs and a wide variety of camellias and magnolias. The garden is at its most magnificent in spring, when it is bathed in delicate pale pink. A stroll through this blossoming oasis is a real treat for the senses.

Bosco Gurin: an adventure in Ticino

Bosco/Gurin, the highest mountain village in Ticino, is an authentic yet atypical Ticino village. As the only German-speaking municipality in the southern canton, it has preserved its Walser traditions and unique village architecture, with old wooden houses and distinctive barns. The village is a living legacy of the Alpine ‘Walser’ people, who settled the valley from the Valais more than seven hundred years ago.

Set at 1503 metres above sea level, picturesque Bosco/Gurin boasts an impressive mountain backdrop, with the Wandfluhhorn as the highest peak in the valley. The view opens out towards the Valle Maggia and is best enjoyed from the alpine pastures and peaks around the village, which can be reached on foot or by mountain bike.

A visit to Bosco/Gurin is a special experience: the oldest house in the village is now home to the Walserhaus Gurin folk museum. The villagers have preserved their traditions and their language, ‘Ggurijnartitsch’. Despite its authenticity, Bosco/Gurin is also a popular destination: in winter it attracts skiers and snowshoers, while in summer the region is a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers. Bosco/Gurin offers hospitality, relaxation and natural beauty all year round.

Termali Salini: pure sauna relaxation

Termali Salini & Spa Locarno is the largest natural brine bath in Ticino, offering an outstanding bathing experience on the shores of Lake Maggiore. Here you’ll find an extensive pool complex with both indoor and outdoor areas, a sauna world led by experienced sauna masters and exclusive private spa suites for truly special moments of indulgence.

Immerse yourself in the fascinating natural brine pools and let yourself be enchanted by their Mediterranean ambience, the breathtaking view of the lake and the surrounding mountain panorama. It’s the perfect setting to unwind and leave everyday life behind.

Hiking in Ticino: a paradise for walkers

The hike from the Maggia delta near Ascona upstream to Golino is an easy route, suitable for walkers of all levels. The tour starts at Locarno railway station, a short walk from the La Palma au Lac hotel, and follows the picturesque lakeside path to the Maggia delta between Locarno and Ascona. Here you can enjoy a last view of Lake Maggiore before the path turns inland at the mouth of the Maggia and follows the river through the delta.

The hike continues along the Maggia embankment until you reach the mouth of the valley. Here you cross to the other side of the river on a bridge, then follow the Maggia and later the smaller River Melezza through a glorious plain all the way to Golino.

Careful planning is important, as the route may be closed or interrupted depending on the season and weather conditions. Before setting off, you should therefore check the current conditions with the local tourist information office.

The technical details of the hike are as follows:

• Starting location: Locarno
• Starting point: Locarno railway station
• Finishing point: Golino, Posta bus stop
• Direction: one way
• Altitude (metres above sea level): 272 m
• Ascent: 100 m
• Descent: 33 m
• Distance: 11 km
• Duration: 2 hours 40 minutes
• Technical difficulty: easy
• Fitness level: easy
• Best season: all year round
• Theme: along the water

The hike offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the region’s waterways. For further details, contact Ascona-Locarno Tourism.

This hike is a wonderful way to experience the beauty of the Swiss landscape and the region’s picturesque waterways.

Lido Locarno: cooling off on hot days

The Lido Locarno is a unique oasis for anyone who loves leisure, sport and wellness in and around the water. This recreational paradise is open all year round and offers a wide range of facilities that will delight every visitor. With its thermal baths, swimming pools, water slides and play pools, it is one of the best-equipped and most modern bathing complexes in Ticino.

Whether you long to relax or want to get active, you’ll find what you’re looking for at the Lido Locarno. The thermal baths invite you to unwind and feel good, while the swimming pools are perfect for sports enthusiasts keen to swim a few lengths. The water slides promise fun and thrills for the whole family, and the play pools are a paradise for little ones.

The Lido Locarno is not only a place to relax but also a place to indulge. The modern facilities and friendly staff make sure your visit is unforgettable. Whether you come alone, with friends or with family, you’ll have a wonderful time at the Lido Locarno and leave feeling refreshed and revitalised. It is undoubtedly a place you’ll want to return to again and again.

E-bike hire: eco-friendly exploring

E-bike hire in Locarno: discover Ticino the eco-friendly way

Bike hire in Locarno: why hire an e-bike?

E-bikes are bicycles with an electric motor that assists you as you pedal – and they’re great fun.

Fun, adventure and nature

Hiring an e-bike in Locarno lets you enjoy a fantastic experience. Thanks to the e-bike, even non-professional athletes can enjoy the thrill of exploring Locarno’s glorious surroundings, covering greater distances than on a conventional bike, reaching the summits of Ticino’s mountains and taking in the breathtaking views and natural beauty of the region.

An eco-friendly choice

Hiring an e-bike is an environmentally friendly option, as it uses no fuel and produces no exhaust fumes. This means you help reduce the amount of pollution released into the environment.

Hiring e-bikes at La Palma au Lac

If you’d like to hire an e-bike in Locarno and discover Ticino with your friends or family, you’ve come to the right place: in partnership with 2wheels Rental & Tours, e-bikes are available to hire at La Palma au Lac. For more information, ask at reception or call us on +41 (0)91 735 36 36 or email info@lapalmaaulac.com.

Discover Locarno’s exciting events

Events in Locarno: cultural highlights

Locarno is also known for its cultural events, including the renowned Locarno Film Festival. Find out about current events and festivals to make your trip an unforgettable experience.

With its breathtaking setting on the shores of Lake Maggiore, Locarno is not only a picturesque holiday destination but also a place that offers exciting events and activities all year round. Whether you love art, culture, food or sport, Locarno has something for everyone. Here are some recurring events you shouldn’t miss:

1. Gastronomic Autumn – Lake Maggiore and Valleys

Every autumn, restaurants on Lake Maggiore and in the surrounding valleys treat their guests to seasonal culinary delights.

2. Ascona-Locarno Run

For sporty travellers, the Ascona-Locarno Run is the perfect opportunity to explore the beautiful scenery at a running pace.

3. Locarno Film Festival (every August)

This world-famous film festival in Locarno attracts filmmakers and cinephiles from all over the world every year.

This is just a small selection of the exciting events in Locarno. For more information about these and other events, visit myswitzerland.com and discover the full programme of events in this enchanting region. Locarno has something for everyone, and we warmly invite you to experience the culture and beauty of this picturesque town on Lake Maggiore.

Fine dining and gourmet restaurants in Locarno

Locarno, a charming town on the shores of picturesque Lake Maggiore in Italian-speaking Switzerland, is known not only for its breathtaking scenery and mild climate but also for its exquisite culinary offering. This little oasis of gastronomic delights boasts an impressive choice of gourmet restaurants that will satisfy even the most discerning foodies.

For an upmarket dining experience, the La Palma restaurant at the La Palma au Lac hotel is an excellent choice. Set right on the lakeside promenade, it serves Mediterranean cuisine made with fresh, regional ingredients, complemented by a fine wine list and a spectacular view of Lake Maggiore. You’ll find information and table reservations on our restaurant page.

Locarno also offers many other opportunities to enjoy the region’s fine cuisine. Ticino cooking stands out for its variety and distinctive flavours – whether you prefer traditional dishes or modern interpretations, every food lover will find something to suit their taste. The combination of exquisite cuisine and picturesque surroundings makes Locarno an unforgettable culinary destination.

Bungee jumping in the Valle Verzasca

A setting for legendary film stunts

The dam in the Valle Verzasca is famous for James Bond’s legendary bungee jump in ‘GoldenEye’, which was even voted the best film stunt of all time. Since then, the imposing dam wall has also served as a backdrop for other films and TV shows.

Immerse yourself in the world of Agent 007 and take a bungee jump that puts you in the footsteps of the famous secret agent. This adventure promises a unique feeling of freedom as you plunge into the depths. The Valle Verzasca provides the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable experience, letting you feel the suspense and thrills of the film world first-hand. Experience the rush of bungee jumping at this legendary location and feel like a real action hero.

Ticino’s best-kept secrets: off the beaten track

For travellers who like to stray off the beaten track, Ticino has plenty of hidden treasures to discover. From toboggan runs and mountain railways to golf courses and saunas, the region is full of insider tips.

Conclusion

With so much to do, Locarno and Ticino are a true paradise for travellers of all ages and interests. The region offers a rich variety of sights and activities, from natural wonders to cultural highlights. Whether you want to explore the breathtaking scenery, relax or seek adventure, Ticino has something for everyone. Pack your bags and experience the beauty of this enchanting region of Switzerland!

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