Activities
Conference participants also have the opportunity for many leisurely activities.
Ascona and its surrounding areas offer interesting possibilities, including:
- Monte Verita attractions
There are a number of attractions in and around the conference venue, including the historical Monte Verita museum and the only tea plantation in Europe, Casa del Tè.
More info - The Castles of Bellinzona
Once a fortified barrier at the gateway to the Alps, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. These fortresses number among the finest examples of medieval fortification architecture in the alpine region. As they appear today, Bellinzona’s fortifications, whose origins actually go much further back to a prehistoric settlement on Castelgrande hill, are mainly the result of intensive and complex building activity undertaken by the Dukes of Milan in the 15th century.
How much time to get there? Approximately 30 minutes.
More info - Madonna del Sasso
The pilgrimage church of the Madonna del Sasso, situated on a hillside overlooking the town of Locarno, can be reached in about five minutes by cable railway, which leaves from the Via Ramogna, near the railroad station.
How much time to get there? Approximately 15 minutes.
More info - The Centovalli Railway
Locarno is the eastern terminus of the wonderful Centovalli railway, one of Switzerland’s most scenic rides. Little, clanky trains depart from beneath Locarno station into the spectacular Centovalli – so named for its “hundred” side valleys – most of the time winding slowly on precarious bridges and viaducts above ravine-like depths (sit on the left for the best views). The area is renowned for its natural beauty, and – with a walking map from Locarno tourist office – you could get out at any of the villages en route, pick up a trail and head off into the hills.
How much time to get there? Approximately 10 minutes.
More info
General information: Ticino tourism website
