Something Special | 4 Days in Locarno

Your holiday starts in style, with Business Class flights. Among many benefits you will have priority check-in and access to the lounge for a quiet pre-flight drink. On board you will be served drinks and a freshly prepared meal. Sit back and relax during the short flight. On arrival at Zurich airport, simply head downstairs to the airport's railway station and enjoy a 1st class journey through the countryside to Locarno (around 2 hours 30 minutes). A porter from the hotel will pick you up on arrival and drive you to the hotel. 

Check in to the elegant Hotel Belvedere, a four star superior hotel situated up the hill from the lakeside, which guarantees lovely views from its vantage point. (Don't worry if you prefer not to walk - a funicular runs up the incline and the hotel has its own stop halfway up. Discounted tickets are available from Reception). One of the best features of the hotel is its newly refurbished Oasi spa and gardens. Perhaps you might like to settle down with a cocktail on the terrace, then unpack and take a dip! The spa has a pool with indoor and outdoor sections as well as a whirlpool and a series of saunas and steam rooms. Lay back and relax in the relaxation room with their glorious views, or if the day is warm, a quiet hour on a sun lounger in the garden is a real tonic. 

Your evening meal consists of three courses in La Fontana restaurant which specialises in refined Mediterranean dining with an emphasis on fresh local produce. On fine evenings you can dine al fresco on the terrace. The intimate bar is the perfect spot for after dinner drinks, or you may like to stroll along the lakeside and enjoy the atmosphere. 

Helpful links

Locarno resort page

Hotel Belvedere

Ticino region excursions

Ticino Ticket

There are many ways to enjoy the lake but this is our favourite! Stroll down to the boat station and use your Half Fare Card to buy a round trip to Brissago Islands at a 50% discount. It's a delightful hour's cruise from Locarno, calling at a few villages along the way and offering a unique view of the blue water and the lush green mountains either side. On arrival at the dock on the larger of the islands, you disembark into a world to enliven your senses. The island is home to widespread subtropical gardens which flourish in the region's balmy climate. It is a joy to wander among the different zones where the soaring trees, interesting shrubs and stunning blooms have been collated according to their original habitats. Take your time to explore these amazing gardens and enjoy the spectacular views over the water and the mountains beyond. An elegant italianate villa is the perfect place in which to reward yourself with a cool drink. 

Time to board another boat for the quick crossing to Ascona. The village is as picture perfect as you could ever imagine! Pastel coloured restaurants and shops line the pretty lake shore and in the charming alleyways leading away from the waterfront you can find a wealth of delightful boutiques. A late lunch in one of the restaurants overlooking the lake is sheer perfection. 

A half hour train ride through the countryside brings you to the capital of the Ticino region. Bellinzona makes for a memorable day out, being steeped in history yet enjoying a vibrant atmosphere. The rail journey is free with your Ticino Ticket.

The town boasts three beautifully preserved castles which are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Romans built the first fortifications which were then extended in the Middle Ages and two further castles added when the Gotthard pass formed one of the most important trade route across the Alps. Visitors can meander along the ramparts and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains. 

After you have explored the three castles, you might like to stroll around the town itself. Bellinzona is italianate in style and features many picturesque squares and courtyards. Visitors can wander among the Old Town's atmospheric alleyways with their restored merchants' houses, theatres and churches. As with all the Ticino towns, there are plenty of cafés and delicatessans to enjoy. If you are lucky enough to visit on a Saturday morning (or Wednesday mornings May-June & September-October) the Bellinzona market is a popular event. Held in the town's historic district since 1878 and set amongst the ancient inns, the colourful stalls offer quality products including regional fruit and vegetables, homemade bread and delicious cheeses from the local valleys as well as traditional handicrafts.

Time to say farewell to the Hotel Belvedere and your Locarno hideaway. We recommend an evening flight to allow you to make the most of your time - why not use the morning to pop up to the local Cardada mountain?! Take the funicular up Orselina, then use your Half Fare Card for a 50% discount on the cable car journey up to Cardada where you can walk and enjoy the views over a coffee. If you have time, take the chair lift even higher to Cimetta at 1,670m for a magnificent panoramic view.

As the flight home is once again in Business Class, you'll have access to the airport lounge before boarding and flying home with your memories of Switzerland.