Discover the mediterranean Alpine life in southern Switzerland!
In the south of Switzerland you will find the canton of Ticino, close to the border with Italy. This diverse region has plenty to offer: high forested mountains, deep crystal blue lakes and plenty of romantic villages. Behind this Swiss natural beauty lies the culture of Italy. Enjoy an espresso on a piazza, stroll along the lagos and experience la dolce vita in Switzerland. In a nutshell: something for everyone in Ticino!
Where will the trip take you?
The canton of Ticino is located in the southernmost part of Switzerland and is part of the Italian-speaking region in the country. From Utrecht, it is almost 1,000 kilometres to Lugano, the largest city in the region. Ticino is therefore the ideal stopover to spend a few days, for example if you are travelling further southwards. It is not for no reason that this region is also called the 'gateway to the south'!
Several roads lead to Ticino. The Gotthard tunnel is the fastest way to get there, but traffic jams are common here when it gets very busy. If you prefer to go over the mountain or avoid the traffic jam, you can drive over the Gotthard Pass. This route will take you to an altitude of over 2,100 metres and you'll encounter beautiful views along the way. Bear in mind that the pass is closed in winter, so you will have to take the tunnel then! Swiss highways require a vignette, which allows you to drive on the toll roads. You can also avoid the highways and opt for a scenic route through the mountains, but this will take longer. If you like to enjoy the beautiful Swiss nature, this is definitely recommended.
If you love diversity during your motorhome trip, Ticino is the place to be! Although the region consists largely of mountains, you will also find lakes with beaches and cosy villages to wander through. Whether you are an adventurer at heart and love the heights or just want to stroll around and enjoy the good life on a terrace, Ticino has it all.
- The Gotthard Pass takes you to an altitude with magnificent views!
© Switzerland Tourism, Andre Meier
The most beautiful hiking and cycling routes
With its vast nature, Ticino is a paradise for hikers and cyclists. There are routes for all levels, both going up in altitude and staying closer to sea level. A true recommendation for a flat walk is the Sentierone through the Valle Verzasca. In this valley, you walk along the crystal blue waters of the Verzasca River. Finish the route in Lavertezzo and take a look at the famous double arch bridge Ponti dei Salti! Do you prefer the heights anyway? From the town of Rivera, the Telecabina Monte Tamaro takes you to an altitude of 1530 metres, from where several routes start. From Alpe Foppa, the final station of the cable car, you can easily walk to Santa Maria degli Angeli, an imposing church with beautiful views over the region. Are you travelling with children? Then get off at the first intermediate station and visit the Adventure Park, where the whole family can have fun. Climb and scramble through the tops of trees at different levels, or go down the toboggan run!
Do you like to go mountain biking? Then definitely take the Monte Tamaro Bike tour! From Alpe Foppa, you will cycle up to Monte Tamaro via unpaved paths, after which the route continues down through hairpin bends. Keep in mind that this route is quite challenging, and you need to have a good level of fitness and experience. Nevertheless, this tour is highly recommended, as you will be able to enjoy the view from the high mountains! Do you not want to climb and descend too much by bike? Then the Percorso Valle Maggia is a must! From Bellinzona, you cycle through the region's vegetable gardens, Piano di Magadino, past the lively Locarno and breathtaking Lake Maggiore to Valle Maggia.
- On the Alpe Foppa, take a little break to enjoy the beautiful scenery!
© Switzerland Tourism, Andre Meier
Stroll through the cosiest villages
With its Italian atmospheres, Ticino is rich in cosy villages. Visit the region's capital, Bellinzona, with its medieval castles, historic city centre and aesthetic squares. The city of Lugano lies on Lake Lugano and is the region's largest town. There is a chic atmosphere in this city, but once you leave the centre and walk along the lakeside boulevard you find yourself in beautiful natural surroundings. For sun worshippers, Locarno, with its 2300 hours of sunshine a year, is the place to be! Located on Lake Maggiore, here you will enjoy palm and lemon trees, the cosiest terraces in Piazza Grande and la dolce vita in southern Switzerland!
- La dolce vita on Lake Maggiore! © Switzerland Tourism, Ivo Scholz
Staying the night
Off to Ticino, then! During your motorhome trip to this beautiful region, stay at Camper Area Tamaro in Rivera. This motorhome stopover, with its quiet location, comfortable and spacious pitches, and beautiful view, is the ideal base for exploring the area. There is a playground for children, and you will also find a snackbar and hiking and cycling routes available on site. Facilities such as water loading and unloading, chemical toilet cleaning and electricity are included. If you want to stream a movie or series in the evening that is not a problem, as WiFi is also available.
At Camper Area Tamaro, you can see the sun rise between the trees, experience the beauty of beautiful nature and completely unwind in this wonderful region. In the 'gateway to the South' you will find nature, culture, and everything in between. In short: the ultimate holiday feeling starts here!
- Enjoy the spacious pitches at Camper Area Tamaro!
The motorhome stopover is open all year round, making this beautiful region a must-see in all seasons! Pack your things quickly and go to Camper Area Tamaro!