Thailand? Not quite — but Ticino in Switzerland has a tropical glow when the sun hits Lake Maggiore and the pine forests above Locarno. I’ve chased sunshine along the Centovalli, hopped between the elegant sun-kissed lagoons and the emerald slopes, and I never get tired of the way Locarno sparkles at dusk. If you’re planning a holiday with friends, a mini escape that feels like a movie-date with gorgeous scenery, this corner of Switzerland delivers. It’s where the scent of roasted chestnuts drifts from a grotto, the water shimmers a shade of blue you didn’t know existed, and every turn reveals a village that looks like it was painted in a postcard. Welcome to Centovalli, Locarno, Ticino—the Italian-speaking slice of Switzerland that knows how to mix adventure, relaxation, and a little flirtation with the scenery.
Why Centovalli and Locarno are a dream for vacation rentals and holiday rentals
Centovalli is the “hundred valleys” playground that links Locarno to Domodossola, with a dramatic railway that threads through olive groves, terraced vineyards, and tumbling waterfalls. It’s the kind of place where a day can swing from a panoramic train ride to a lakeside aperitivo, and the evenings are made for long dinners with friends. Locarno itself feels like a stylish weekend away: a lakeside promenade, a sun-drenched old town, and a terrace culture that invites lingering over gelato and conversation. When you search for vacation rentals or holiday rentals in this area, you’re not choosing just a place to sleep—you’re choosing a base for a vibrant mix of outdoor adventures and slow, delicious days by the water. Whether your crew wants a chic apartment with a balcony facing the lake or a cozy townhouse near the old town, you’ll find options that balance comfort with character in Locarno and the surrounding villages.
For travelers who want to weave flexible stays with social, outdoor-friendly itineraries, the right accommodations can transform a trip into a joyful rhythm of mornings by the market, afternoons on the water, and evenings spent exploring local flavors. Searching for places to stay in the Valle Verzasca, the Riviera of Locarno, or along the Centovalli corridor makes planning easier when you pick a destination that aligns with your group’s pace—whether that means an action-packed long weekend or a slower, wine-and-dine lengthier escape. The best vacation rentals and holiday rentals here welcome groups of friends with spaces to gather, kitchens to share, and views that spark new ideas every morning.
Where to stay: accommodations in the area for groups of friends
Locarno and the Lake Maggiore shoreline offer a spectrum of vacation rentals designed for social travel. Look for light-filled apartments in the old town with easy access to cafés, boutiques, and a sunset walk along the lake. If your crew wants more space, consider villa-style holiday rentals perched above the lake, offering terraces where you can toast a sunset with a glass of Merlot di Ticino. For a touch of rustic charm, there are charming stone houses and boutique guesthouses tucked into hillside villages with panoramic views and a sense of Ticinese heritage. Regardless of your budget, this region has options that make a group trip feel effortless and stylish at the same time.
When you search for accommodations, prioritize features that amplify your group dynamic: multiple bedrooms with ensuite baths for privacy, a well-equipped kitchen for shared meals, and common spaces that invite conversation and planning. Proximity to the Centovalli Train, boat moorings on the lake, and paths for easy day trips will save you time and add to the experience. If you’re using a site like searchandstay.com to find accommodations in the area, filter by “vacation rentals” and “holiday rentals” with a minimum of two or three bedrooms, and look for listings that highlight outdoor spaces—balconies, terraces, or gardens where you can gather after a day of exploring.
To maximize your stay, consider booking a base in Locarno for the lake access and the easy day trips, with a couple of nights in a Centovalli village for intimate dinners and quieter evenings. A well-chosen mix of locations within a 20–40 minute drive can keep your crew energized without the hustle of chasing trains or taxis every evening.
Pro tip: When you’re choosing a vacation rental, look for hosts or managers who can recommend local experiences, grotto dinners, and hidden viewpoints. A rental that comes with insider tips becomes a passport to a more spontaneous, friend-filled trip.
Getting there and getting around: transport that keeps the momentum going
Locarno sits on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore, with easy rail links from Switzerland’s larger hubs. Your best bet for a sense of arrival in the Centovalli is the Centovalli Railway, a scenic route that twists from Locarno into the forested gorge and down toward Domodossola in Italy. The journey itself is a show—glacial-green valleys, matches of color between the terraced vineyards and rushing streams, and panoramic windows that frame a moving postcard. It’s the kind of ride that prompts a chorus of “wow” from your group, followed by a flirty selfie with the landscape as the backdrop.
For a day-by-day rhythm, pair the Centovalli ride with lake-based exploration. From Locarno, you can catch a boat or a ferry to Ascona, Brissago, or the other lakeside towns. The Brissago Islands (Isola di Brissago) are a short boat hop away and offer botanical gardens, sunshine, and a playful sense of discovery. If you’re in the mood to stay mobile, you’ll love the ease of renting a car for a few hours to reach Verzasca Valley’s famous rope bridge or the high viewpoints above Cardada and Cimetta. Public transport is reliable, but a light rental can unlock those off-the-beaten-path corners without losing the energy your group brings to a holiday.
Activities and local experiences: dynamic days with friends
Locarno and Ticino are built for social travel. Here’s a curated mix of activities and experiences that will keep your crew energized, accessorized with gorgeous views and delicious moments.
- Lake Maggiore adventures: Rent a paddleboard or a small boat for a late-afternoon cruise. The water is inviting, and a gentle breeze turns conversations into laughter as you drift along the shoreline.
- Centovalli Train experience: Book the panoramic ride that climbs through forests and drops into valleys. Bring a lightweight picnic to enjoy on the car’s window seat, and prepare for photo-worthy moments at every stop on the way.
- Old Town explorations in Locarno: Wander the narrow lanes, shop for local crafts, and sip espresso while watching the world go by from a sunlit square. The atmosphere is friendly and buzzy, perfect for a group looking to soak up the scene without sacrificing comfort.
- Ascona strolls and the Monte Verità vibe: A short ride from Locarno, Ascona is a sun-drenched promenade town with an artistic edge. Explore the lakeside paths, sip spritz on veranda bars, and stroll up to Monte Verità for sweeping views and a sense of history in the air.
- Wine and gastronomy in Ticino: The Ticino region is famous for Merlot, a soft, fruit-forward red that pairs beautifully with polenta, brasato al vino rosso, and risotti made with local mushrooms. Book a vineyard tasting close to Locarno or in the nearby hills and let the host guide you through a sensory journey—the color of the grapes, the aroma in the air, and the crisp finish of a glass shared among friends.
- Grotto dining experiences: Ticino’s grotto restaurants are tucked into hillside terraces and offer simple, heartwarming fare—the kind of meals that taste like a welcome hug after a day of adventures. The menu often features polenta, local cheeses, roasted chestnuts, and seasonal greens with olive oil that tastes like the sun.
- Verzasca River and adventure corners: A day trip to the Verzasca Valley gives you turquoise river pools, quaint stone villages, and a famous rope bridge that’s perfect for a group photo or a quick adrenaline moment if you’re feeling bold.
- Isola di Brissago and botanical strolls: A boat ride to the islands reveals a curated garden paradise in a microclimate that’s warm even when the weather cools. It’s a peaceful counterpoint to busier days and a scenic spot for a relaxed picnic with a stunning backdrop.
- Night markets and lakeside dining: The Locarno area hosts seasonal markets and lakefront eateries where you can sample regional cheeses, cured meats, and handmade desserts. A relaxed evening with friends over a shared table and waves of laughter is a hallmark experience here.
Three to four day sample itinerary: a rhythm for friends
Day 1: Arrive in Locarno and settle into your vacation rental. Explore the old town, stroll the promenade, and enjoy a lakeside aperitivo as the sun sinks. Dinner in a grotto or a friendly trattoria with a view of the water sets a welcoming tone for the days ahead. Optional evening boat ride to a nearby village for a nighttime perspective of the lake.
Day 2: Take the Centovalli Railway for a scenic day trip. Bring a light lunch and enjoy a guided or self-guided walk in picturesque stops along the route. Return to Locarno for a night by the water, perhaps a casual dinner on a terrace with views of the lake lights reflected on the surface.
Day 3: Head to Ascona for a relaxed lakeside morning and then to Monte Verità for panoramic views and a sense of history. Afternoon wine tasting in the hills above Locarno, followed by a sunset stroll and a dinner in a bustling local osteria.
Day 4: River and valley day—Verzasca or a nearby valley hike with a picnic by a clear pool. If energy remains, add a spa afternoon or a swim at a local lido before a farewell dinner with a view of the lake.
Local experiences that make the trip glow
Holiday rentals in this region shine when hosts guide you toward authentic local experiences—hungry for discovery, you’ll want experiences that go beyond the typical. Seek out private tours or small-group tastings with local winemakers, a cooking class centered on Ticinese recipes, and a guided walk along Verzasca’s emerald river to a stone bridge and beyond. The best itineraries balance activity with downtime, allowing your group to recharge and reconnect over a table of shared plates and stories.
For those who love a little spontaneity, the area invites a flexible approach: a morning hike that reveals a hidden valley, an afternoon market that changes with the season, and evenings spent learning the language’s playful phrases while sipping a local espresso or a glass of aged red. You’ll find that the local people are friendly, the pace is relaxed, and every new corner invites a new memory—perfect for a group that cherishes holidays with friends.
Finding the right accommodations: how to plan and where to look
When planning a trip that blends lake life, valley scenery, and social evenings, securing the right place to stay is half the challenge—and half the joy. The Locarno and Centovalli area has a spectrum of vacation rentals and holiday rentals that cater to social groups. The best options encourage sharing spaces, cooking together, and stepping out to explore without feeling rushed. Look for properties that offer:
- Open-plan living spaces and kitchens that accommodate groups
- Two or more bedrooms with comfortable sleeping arrangements
- Outdoor spaces—balconies, terraces, or small gardens for evening photos and cocktails
- Proximity to Locarno’s waterfront, the Centovalli line, and local grotto dining spots
- Accessible transportation and nearby markets for easy self-catering
For a simplified search, check searchandstay.com as a resource to find accommodations in the area. The site highlights vacation rentals and holiday rentals in Locarno, Centovalli, and Ticino, helping you compare options, read guest reviews, and book accommodations that align with your group’s vibe. It’s a practical starting point for planning your trip, and it helps ensure you have a solid home base while you discover the lakes, valleys, and culinary treasures of this corner of Switzerland.
Tips for a smooth trip: weather, packing, and local etiquette
Ticino has a climate that blends Swiss efficiency with Italian warmth. Summers on Lake Maggiore are sunny and breezy, ideal for boat trips and long evenings on the promenade. Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures with a touch of rain in the forecast, which can be perfect for cozy grotto dinners and museum visits. Winters are typically cooler and quieter, offering a different charm with hot chocolate by the lake and fewer crowds.
Packing should lean into multifunctional pieces: light layering for variable mountain weather, comfortable walking shoes for cobbled streets and trails, a swimsuit for lake dips, and a few dressier options if you plan to dine in stylish restaurants with a view. A lightweight rain layer or compact umbrella is wise, especially if you’re exploring the Verzasca valley or taking a late ferry on the lake.
Local etiquette is friendly and relaxed. A warm greeting, a willingness to try local dishes, and a shared table are highly valued in Ticino culture. When dining in grotto eateries, expect a convivial atmosphere where sharing plates and savoring slow, multi-course meals is part of the experience. If you’re traveling with a group, coordinate reservations in advance for popular grotto nights and scenic viewpoints to ensure your party has space to relax and soak in the scenery together.
Safety and practicalities
Centovalli, Locarno, and Ticino are friendly and well-ted, but it’s always smart to approach travel with a few practical steps. Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas and at popular attractions. Stay hydrated in the sun, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for the mornings and late afternoons when the light is best for photos. If you’re renting a car for day trips, ensure you have adequate parking arrangements in each town you’ll visit. In the Centovalli region, some roads are narrow and winding—drive thoughtfully and enjoy the scenery from the comfort of your seat rather than focusing on speed.
In peak seasons, book accommodations and major activities in advance. Locarno hosts events and markets that draw crowds, and a days-in-advance booking ensures your crew has seats at waterfront restaurants or guided tours without last-minute stress.
Closing notes: the promise of a sun-kissed, social escape
Centovalli, Locarno, and Ticino offer a vacation rental playground that’s perfect for friends who want an active, playful, and unforgettable holiday. The combination of lake life, river valleys, mountain viewpoints, and a dining culture built on fresh and seasonal ingredients makes every day feel like a new adventure with a comfortable home base to return to. It’s a place where you can bounce between adrenaline and relaxation, where the scenery fuels connection, and where the idea of a “holiday” becomes a vibrant, shared experience. If you’re ready to turn your next group trip into a bright, sun-drenched reality, start with a search for accommodations in the area and let the rest unfold—your next Swiss holiday with friends awaits.
Remember to check searchandstay.com for a curated selection of vacation rentals and holiday rentals in Locarno, Centovalli, and the Ticino region. It’s a trusted resource for finding accommodations in the area while you plan your itinerary of activities and local experiences. With the right place to stay, the Centovalli valley and Locarno’s lakeside charm become the perfect stage for your next unforgettable getaway.