Lakes and Lidos of Switzerland's Sunny South

Day 1  Zurich to Lucerne      
Arrive at Zurich airport and then board your train for the journey to historic Lucerne. After checking in, head to the waterfront and discover the city’s most famous landmark, the wooden Chapel Bridge, originally built in 1332. The bridge’s painted panels date from the 17^th Century and illustrate key points in Switzerland’s fascinating history.

Day 2  Lucerne to Lugano      
Take a traditional steamboat across Lake Lucerne and begin your enchanting journey through the heart of Switzerland, learning about the legends of the Gotthard region along the way. Leave the boat at Flüelen and join the Gotthard Panorama Express train to the southernmost tip of Switzerland’s sunny Ticino region, where the glistening waters and palm trees of Lake Lugano await.      

Days 3-4  Lugano  
Spend a few days discovering the unique spirit of the Ticino region, where Swiss hospitality and Italian flair combine. Maybe take a lake cruise to see romantic Morcote, the quaint fishing village of Gandria and the Olive Grove Trail in style. Perhaps take the train to Bellinzona, the UNESCO World Heritage listed regional capital to see the three spectacular castles. Alternatively, simply relax at the sandy lakeside beaches and pools of Lido di Lugano, a favourite for sunworshippers since it first opened in the 1920s.      

Day 5  Lugano to Locarno      
Leave Lugano behind this morning and take the short train journey to laidback Locarno on the edge of Lake Maggiore. After exploring the beautiful old town, ride the scenic funicular railway to Orselina, to see the Sanctuary of Madonna del Sasso, founded following a miraculous apparition in 1480. Home to beautiful artworks dating from the 15th Century, the Sanctuary also offers fabulous views across the valley. In the evening the beautiful Piazza Grande is the perfect spot for people watching, an aperitif and to indulge in some delicious local cuisine.      

Day 6  Locarno      
Thanks to its unique climatic conditions there are plenty of beautiful gardens to explore in the Lake Maggiore area, from Locarno’s Camellia Park to the Gambarogno Botanical Park which is perched on a hillside above the eastern shore of the lake. Why not combine a boat trip on Lake Maggiore with a visit to the Brissago Islands, where the spectacular botanical gardens offer a sensory journey through over 1,700 plants from around the world, all with incredible views of the lake and mountains beyond?  

Day 7  Ascona        
This morning cross the river to discover the Mediterranean charm of Ascona. Wander the colourful alleyways and galleries of the old town and call in to one of the numerous cafés for a delicious cappuccino. Climb the steps to Monte Verità to see the stunning views that have inspired philosophers and artists for generations, and perhaps visit Europe’s most northerly tea plantation. In the afternoon simply relax amongst the ancient trees and sandy beaches of Lido Ascona before enjoying the sunset from the magnificent lakeside promenade. Dine at one of the towns many acclaimed eateries before returning to your hotel in Locarno.      

Day 8  Locarno to Zurich      
After a final lakeside walk, leave the Ticino behind and board your train to Zurich for your onward flight.