Wild and free!

Biking, hiking, swimming, and snoozing at Lake Maggiore

The hiking and bike routes around and high above Lake Maggiore promise adventures galore amidst verdant nature. Set your active spirit free!

Lake Maggiore, one of Europe’s largest lakes, is a paradise for hiking fans. Its shores offer a variety of well-marked hiking paths that lead through forests, past picturesque villages, and to breathtaking viewpoints. Hiking in Ticino means palm trees and glaciers, the azure blue of the lake and the white snow sparkling on the peaks, scenic valleys and 2,300 hours of sunshine a year. Adventure seekers can reach new heights on challenging trails like the ascent up 3,000m-high Mt Pizzo Campo Tencia, the highest mountain that stands solely in Ticino. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with sights of Ticino down below and amazing views of the mighty peaks all around you.

Mountain biking in Ticino is the ideal blend of challenging and enjoyable. Steep mountain paths, demanding single trails, and countless photo opportunities make Ticino a dream destination for anyone looking for two-wheeled adventures. Whether racing along on a road bike, enjoying a ride along the cycle path, or hitting the mountain trails on a mountain bike, whether your route is long or short, steep or level, around our Vista Lakefront Boutique Hotel in Ascona, you’re sure to find an option that tickles your fancy. And if you’d like something a little more leisurely, numerous well-signed cycle paths lead along Lake Maggiore, through the countryside of Ticino, and to picturesque villages.

Besides its stunning natural scenery, the region around Lake Maggiore and Ticino also offers a rich range of cultural highlights and culinary specialities. The charming old towns of historical cities like Locarno and Lugano attract visitors from all over the world. And while we could wax lyrical about the culinary delights that await you in Ascona, it’s best that you come and find out yourself. Located directly on the lakeside promenade, Vista’s renowned gourmet restaurant al Pontile is certainly worth a visit (or even two!), as is charmingly casual al Piazza. After all, you’ll more than deserve a little culinary pampering after all that action in the mountains or by the lake!

So, grab your hiking boots or hop on your bike and get ready to experience the beauty of this unique region at the heart of Switzerland.