The Swiss part of Lake Maggiore, surrounded by the towns Locarno, Ascona, Brissago and further small villages, prides itself on its numerous and extraordinary nature beauty spots. Thanks to the enchanting flowers and plants from all 5 continents, the Botanical Garden of the Brissago Island is of major importance. Near the lakeshore and the centre of Locarno lies the Camellia Park with over 900 species of this beautiful flower, some of which very rare.
Locarno is recognised worldwide for its International Film Festival, the biggest cultural event in Switzerland and one of the most important ones in Europe. It also has a strong relationship with flowers; lovers of nature are drawn by the spectacular shows of camellias, mimosa and magnolias. The clear autumn days attract those who are looking for a quiet stay with excursions. The historic Piazza Grande, with the typical arcades, is one of the most famous squares in Switzerland, with its numerous boutiques and restaurants. This is the meeting place as well as the heart of the town, where the main commercial and cultural activities take place: the weekly market on Thursdays, the Moon & Stars concerts and the open air film projections during the Film Festival. In Locarno there are various witnesses of the past, as for example the sanctuary of Madonna del Sasso, the Visconti Castle with the “Rivellino”, a bulwark, attested as a Leonardo da Vinci work and the picturesque old town.
