The best hotels for exploring Ticino

Lake Lugano always looks rather magical, but when viewed from the comfort of a five-star hotel, it somehow gets even better. Thankfully, the rooms, facilities and dining at this luxury-focused venue are just as superlative as the views. Add to that the fact that boat rental, nature trails and all manner of outdoor activities are on your doorstep and you’ve got the makings of a dreamy vacation.

Set on a hilltop overlooking popular and pretty Locarno, you won’t be able to resist the city’s charms for long at this hotel, particularly as Locarno boasts one of the warmest climates in Switzerland and seemingly endless sunshine. Back at the hotel, there’s lots to keep everyone happy – from families to business travellers – thanks to a selection of top-range facilities, including a spa, library, lounge bar, on-site art collection of paintings and sculpture, and bookable activities, such as boat trips on Lake Maggiore.

If you’re looking to get active while you’re exploring, Hotel Serpiano could be the perfect spot for you. Set in an enviable position between Lake Lugano and the Monte San Giorgio mountains, the hotel boasts a range of activities and opportunities for enjoying Ticino’s fantastic scenery, such hiking and biking trails (including free bike rental), and a playground in the forest for younger visitors. When it’s time to head back, make the most of the spa, swimming pool and on-site restaurant with terrace boasting incredible panoramic views.

Although this hotel is found near to the centre of beautiful Bellinzona and its UNESCO-recognised castles, it’s also perfectly situated for exploring the rest of Ticino, thanks to the town’s main rail station being directly opposite the venue. When you’ve finished exploring, rejuvenate those weary legs at the hotel’s extensive spa, featuring a Finnish sauna, Turkish bath and much more.

Although tucked-away in a peaceful and private corner of a 25-acre natural park, Collina d’Oro is also just a few minutes away from buzzy, cosmopolitan Lugano, giving guests the best of both worlds. If you can tear yourself away from exploring Lugano’s many charms, this fine hotel has a world of luxury for you to revel in, including a fully equipped spa and wellness centre, a restaurant offering fine-dining and an outdoor pool that shows off the venue’s panoramic views over the Alps.  

Find your own little piece of Mediterranean paradise at La Campagnola, where you’ll be staying within beautifully kept green gardens that reveal truly breath-taking views across Lake Maggiore and the southern Swiss Alps. There are tons of leisure facilities available – including an outdoor sauna, massage centre and fitness room – and thanks to family rooms, a kids’ pool and playground, the hotel is also a great choice for those travelling through Ticino with children.

This friendly hostel is made for exploring Bellinzona, whether you want to see the world-famous castles or go further afield – or both. Whatever your plans, consider hiring a bike to get the most out of your time in this unique town, which the hostel can help you with. Ostello Montebello offers rooms for a variety of trips, from dormitory accommodation for those on a budget to private rooms with en-suite bathrooms and family rooms.

Once you’ve found the ideal hotel for your trip, why not book it now to get your holiday underway? Visit ticino.ch/getaway for more great accommodation and to get things rolling.