A trip to Locarno is always special.

I’m going there this weekend to visit two friends from England, Jill and Phil.

I hope I’ll be able to get to see this building, at Bernadino Luini 12.

Designed by Livio Vacchini, it’s the office building of System Brunner AG, a prionting company. The building also hosts a gallery

Photo Flickr chelseagirl

Post from: The Switzerland Traveler

Time for a trip to Southern Switzerland.

Morcote and Vico Morcote (above) make an ideal break from the hustle and bustle of Lugano and Locarno. Dating back more than a thousand years, you’re certain to find some fascinating history.

Narrow streets, a terraced cemetry and a beautiful Park (Parco Scherrer) all await.

The church of Santa Maria del Sasso dates back to the 13th century, and has been remodelled during the Renaissance, and what we English call the Victorian era. 

The village/town used to be a thriving port but now derives most of its income from tourism

http://www.promorcote.ch/eg_index.html

Photo Flickr shark attacks

Post from: The Switzerland Traveler

Calling all flower lovers!

“Camellias at Locarno” is a festival for the general public and camellia lovers alike.

Over 300 variations of the flower will be on display, the location being apt because the Ticino climate is said to be ideal for growing Camellias.

The arrangements are created by professional gardeners, and as well as local music, there are ikebana and tea ceremonies to conjure up images of far-off lands. Far-off lands full of camellias that is.

And as it all takes place on the shores of Lake Maggiore, what better place could there be to look at beautiful flowers? 

Thurs 20 March – Mon 24 March

Ente turistico Lago Maggiore,
Largo Zorzi 1,
Casella postale, 6600 Locarno

+41 (0)91 791 00 91

www.maggiore.ch

Photo Kiki the Cat (what a great alias!)

Post from: The Switzerland Traveler

High up above the town of Locarno, there is a sanctuary located on a forested cliff; Madonna del Sasso. Sasso means rock, so hopefully I won’t be struck down for translating it as Madonna on the Rocks.

The church was consecrated in the 19th century when a local monk, Brother Bartholomeo, claimed that the Madonna had appeared before him whilst walking in the woods.

You can reach the sanctuary either on foot, if you are feeling energetic, or there is a funicular railway that winds its way through the trees and delivers you at a very pleasant bar with terrace looking down on the church.

There are a number of sculpture groups in rooms surrounding the stairs on the way up to the main church, including one of the Last Supper. Inside the church are two impressive paintings, Flight to Egypt and the Transport of Christ.

And by the main door are a series of plaques pledging thanks to the Madonna for helping people in their daily lives. I’m not what you’d call religious but it certainly makes you think.

From the church, or to be precise, from the funicular, it is possible to catch a cable car higher up the mountain, and even a chair lift should you be determined to go higher to get a birds eye view of Lago Maggiore.

If you choose that option, wear sensible shoes and warm clothing, especially at this time of year. Of course, if you are only passing casually, there’s always the possibility of sitting on the restaurant terrace, sipping something on the rocks and trying to recreate Brother Bartholomeo’s vision…

Post from: The Switzerland Traveler