In the south of Switzerland
As the heart of Italian-speaking Switzerland, Ticino has a culinary, musical, literary and artistic scene all of its own. Ascona is the perfect starting point for getting to know it. Situated at the foot of Monte Verità, the town has long been a place of pilgrimage for members of the Lebensreform movement and seekers of utopias and counter-worlds.
Summer in Ascona
Activities
Water sports
We never tire of looking at the deep blue of Lake Maggiore – yet its beauty is far from the only thing it has to offer. Experience the adrenaline rush of water-skiing, wakeboarding or trick skating. Alternatively, you can also spend a relaxing day on the water, be it on comfortable luxury charters, sailing or motorboats or on a tour across the lake. Our partner Asconautica is available directly at the hotel to provide you with expert advice and the necessary equipment at any time. Further information here.
Activities
Casa Epper
Ignaz Epper was a leading exponent of Swiss expressionism. His wife Mischa, herself a gifted artist, left behind her own important artistic legacy. Both were drawn to the shores of Lake Maggiore seeking inspiration for their art – and Casa Epper was where they settled. The former residence and workshop of this artistic pair became part of the Hotel Eden Roc in 2020 and now hosts regular workshops, exhibitions and fascinating talks by local heritage organisation Agora Ascona. Casa Epper is open daily to guests of the Hotel Eden Roc and other visitors to the area.
Activities
Golf
Why a golf holiday in Ticino? Because every shot will be one to remember – and if you don’t quite make the mark, the breathtaking views of rolling hills and lakes will be more than enough to ease the blow. Visitors to the region can choose from no less than 18 golf courses, all of which are easily reachable from the Hotel Eden Roc. Measuring 5,948 metres in length, the Ascona Golf Club is located just 1.4km from our door. The next-closest course in Losone comes in at 6,250 metres.
Activities
Hiking
The branching valleys of Ticino make it the ideal place for all-day walks and hikes. The Valle Maggia, Centovalli and Valle Verzasca are three of the most interesting, with the latter dubbed the ‘Maldives of Switzerland’ in reference to its deep blue bathing spots. With its iron flower, Monte Verità – literally the ‘mountain of truth’ – still radiates the mysticism for which it was once known: it is famed as a former meeting place of Lebensreformers, artists, pacifists and writers like Hermann Hesse.
Activities
City trip to Milano
Ciao, Milano - and in just two hours! Why not use your stay in Ascona for a shopping trip to Milan? The metropolis is quickly and easily accessible by train as well as by car. Whether for an aperitivo on the piazza, sightseeing or a stroll through the Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele - back at the Hotel Eden Roc, rest and relaxation await after an exciting day.
Activities
Moving Mountains
We believe that people should never stop playing. To celebrate this philosophy, we've curated a special menu of activities aimed at experiencing the Ticino summer through play. Learn new skills and crafts, listen to fascinating stories and find out more about centuries-old traditions as part of our Moving Mountains holiday programme.
Experiences
Experiences
A bicycle tour
Wanna explore Ticino on two wheels? Our outdoor Butler guides you along hidden paths and through the picturesque forests of the region.
Experiences
The Sailors Club
Savour the gentle breeze on your face as you set sail with our experienced skipper. As you admire the scenery, you’ll be regaled with interesting anecdotes about the region we call home.
Experiences
Fishing on Lake Maggiore
Tight lines! Listen to the gentle lapping of the waves as you head out on Lake Maggiore in the calm morning in search of zander, perch and whitefish, With a little luck, you’ll be heading back to the hotel with a fresh catch to enjoy for dinner.
Experiences
Boccia at Casa Epper
Did you know that Ticino is the birthplace of the boccia world champion? This enjoyable game enjoys enduring popularity in the region and is part of its distinctive cultural identity. Why not starting off with a friendly round of play before our weekly Ticinese evening? Everything you need for a game of Boccia is available at our concierge. Ready, set, roll!
Experiences
Harvesting honey from our bee hotel
Situated high above Lake Maggiore are the eight buzzing hives of the hotel’s own bee yard. With a beekeeping suit for protection, you’ll get up close with our busy workers and collect your own sample of their precious liquid gold.
Experiences
Hiking to the Castelliere Ruins
Looking for a route that captures the essence of Ticino? This spectacular trail – which makes its way from Ponte Brolla along the Maggia river and up to the Castelliere ruins – comes highly recommended. Culture, cuisine, history and the charm of Switzerland’s sunniest canton combine to create an unforgettable trip.
Experiences
Centovalli walk
Journey aboard the Treno del Foliage from Locarno into the wild, unspoilt Centovalli, a landscape shaped by deep gorges, chestnut forests and villages. Ever-changing vistas unfold along the way, each with its own cultural and historical resonance. A gentle walk along the historic Via del Mercato completes the experience, accompanied by our Outdoor Butler and complemented by snacks to enjoy en route.
Experiences
Nature Spa
Ticino enchants with a variety of idyllic bathing spots, where crystal-clear waters offer a welcome refreshment during the hot summer months. The Outdoor Butler will guide you to hidden gems nestled in breathtaking natural surroundings. Don’t forget to pack your swimwear and enjoy an unforgettable day by the water.
Experiences
Sunrise Kayaking
The early hours of the morning on Lake Maggiore exude a magic all of their own. Viewed from the water, the former fishing village of Ascona is radiant in its unspoilt beauty – perfectly complemented by shimmering azure blue.
Experiences
Discover Ticino with our Outdoor Butler
Explore Ticino through fresh eyes as our Outdoor Butler accompanies you on unforgettable adventures. Journey into pristine nature, scale a peak with stunning views of Lake Maggiore or take a tour of discovery through the Maggia and Verzasca valleys: you decide where the day takes you.
Experiences
Art Butler
Book our passionate resident artists, Maddalena Mora and Sofia Wacket Mascheroni, for an art workshop that’s tailored entirely to you. Whether engraving, sculpture-making or a guided museum tour, unleash your creativity and be inspired by their expertise and passion.
Hotel Eden Roc Sommer Journal
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From Lake Maggiore to the Maggia River. The Curated Beach Buggy Drive Co...
Ticino in a beach buggy just makes sense. Open, uncomplicated and delightfully carefree, this quirky mode of transport reflects the relaxed spirit of Ascona itself – and offers access to a remarkable variety of landscapes in a short...
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The hidden places of Ascona
Ascona delights with its mediterranean climate and breathtaking landscape. We know the spots where you will be able to find time for yourself and your thoughts and take a break: these are the Hidden Places.
News
Discover endless possibilities around the Italian Lakes
Situated at the top of Lake Maggiore, Hotel Eden Roc Ascona is the ideal starting point to explore the countless natural and cultural beauties of the Italian lake district.
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Springtime in Ticino: 5 reasons to head to Ascona
Azure blue lakes, Mediterranean palm trees, an attractive climate and Swiss conviviality: Ticino really does have it all. Read on to find out why you should pack your bags and make your way to Switzerland’s southernmost tip to exper...