Destination: Ascona-Locarno, Switzerland
Nestled between Lake Maggiore and the majestic Ticino Alps, Ascona-Locarno captivates visitors with its Mediterranean charm, southern spirit, and alpine beauty. Palms lining the lakefront, snow-capped peaks in the distance – this unique setting makes the region a true haven for epicureans, culture enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.
Culinary Pleasures – Ticino Flavours with a Mediterranean Soul
The cuisine of Ascona-Locarno reflects the diversity of its landscape: a perfect harmony between alpine authenticity and Italian elegance. In the traditional grotti, guests enjoy homemade specialities such as polenta, Luganighe sausages, or creamy risotto, often accompanied by robust Merlot wines from nearby vineyards.
At the same time, the region is home to numerous fine dining restaurants where chefs reinterpret traditional flavours with creativity and respect for the seasons. Whether it’s freshly caught fish from Lake Maggiore, mountain cheese from local pastures, or cold-pressed olive oil – the culinary experience here is always rooted in the land.
Sights Between Lake and Mountains
Ascona-Locarno is a treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural gems.
A stroll across Piazza Grande in Locarno leads straight into the lively heart of the town, where history, events, and the Dolce Vita intertwine. Overlooking it all stands the Sacro Monte Madonna del Sasso, a spiritual sanctuary offering breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore.
Nature lovers will find serenity in the Onsernone Valley and Centovalli, home to picturesque villages such as Rasa and Intragna, where the Ponte Romano bridge whispers stories of the past. Panoramic views await atop Monte Comino or along the Cardada cableway, while the dramatic Cascata di Foroglio waterfall showcases the region’s wild beauty.
On the water, the Brissago Islands invite visitors to explore their lush botanical gardens surrounded by shimmering blue. The lakeside village of Gerra Gambarogno enchants with peaceful beaches, and in Losone, the Cantina Vinicola offers exquisite wine tastings. Those venturing to the Valle di Salei can savour the distinctive Formaggio Alpe Salei, a mountain cheese rich in local tradition.
JRE Chefs in Ascona-Locarno
Among the emerging culinary talents shaping Ascona-Locarno’s gastronomy, Yanick Walker stands out. A proud member of the JRE-Jeunes Restaurateurs, he leads the kitchen at Ristorante della Stazione in Intragna with passion and precision. His cuisine combines creativity with deep respect for regional ingredients, turning every dish into a tribute to Ticino’s terroir.
Walker embodies a new generation of chefs who are redefining Ascona-Locarno – not only as a destination for leisure and nature, but as a true culinary hotspot in Switzerland.
