Hotel Eden Roc.
Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Eden Roc
Why This Charming Swiss Town Is the Ideal Summer Retreat
The only beachfront property in town, Hotel Eden Roc offers an array of outdoor activities and cultural programs that give a taste of the scenic region
When thinking of Switzerland, snowcapped mountains and quaint villages with cobblestone streets might be the first things that come to mind—but what about a lakefront beach with palm trees? However unlikely that image may seem, it’s precisely what visitors will find in Switzerland’s southern Ticino region, where a town called Ascona offers a unique blend of Swiss and Italian cultures that create the perfect summer destination. The sapphire blue waters of Lake Maggiore, a sister to Lake Como, are ideal for an array of activities, including sailing, swimming, or simply enjoying a nice view from a lounge chair.
Ascona, Switzerland. Photo: Courtesy of Switzerland Tourism
Hotel Eden Roc, the only beachfront property in Ascona, has stunning views of the lake, and each of its guest rooms are equipped with a balcony to soak up the scenery. Architect and designer Carlo Rampazzi conceived the striking interiors for all four Swiss properties of the Tschuggen Collection’s five-star resorts. His two storefronts in town, both named Selvaggio, are treasure troves of antiques and colorful tabletop accessories.
Native to Ascona, Rampazzi brings his eclectic style and character to the hotel with whimsical bespoke furnishings and unique wall-coverings. “At Hotel Eden Roc, our design ethos is embodied in the seamless blend of lake, mountain, and sky views that inspire dreams,” he explains. “These breathtaking vistas, infused with nature’s vibrant hues, are vital to my vision. A life devoid of color is like an eternal gray spring or a monochrome bouquet—utterly lifeless. Hotel rooms should embrace a touch of madness, offering that daring, extraordinary element that guests would never venture to have at home.”
Hotel Eden Roc. Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Eden Roc
Hotel Eden Roc. Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Eden Roc
Rampazzi also designed the four restaurants on the property, including the two Michelin–starred restaurant La Brezza, known for its Mediterranean-inspired tasting menu. Chef Marco Campanella’s imaginative dishes transform ingredients such as a simple radish into a memorable bite. Each of the courses, from a tender short rib from Ennetbürgen to a trio of desserts inspired by the strawberry, are artfully prepared on Bernadaud tableware. Sculptural pieces crafted by local artist Maddalena Mora also provide the perfect vessel for presenting delicate bites.
Dishes from La Brezza. Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Eden Roc
An artist with a wide breadth of regional knowledge, Mora arranges special outings for hotel guests wanting to explore the flourishing art scene. With the official title of “Art Butler,” Mora hosts workshops in a variety of mediums including etching and sculpture and will curate classes around a guest’s interests. She also plans trips to local museums and artist studios to give visitors an insider look. “We have a lot of art galleries in the old town that showcase different types of art, from modern to classic and antiques. It’s fun because you can discover a lot of new and emerging artists,” explains Mora.
Casa Epper. Photo: Stefanie Li
Casa Epper. Photo: Stefanie Li
Ascona is known to be a haven for creative thinkers including Hermann Hesse and Wassily Kandinsky, who flocked to the famed Monte Verità at the start of the 1900s. This rich history is imbued in the town filled with galleries and museums such as Casa Epper. A hidden gem on the grounds of the Hotel Eden Roc, the former home and studio of Expressionist artist Ignaz Epper houses a collection of Epper’s etchings and ceramic busts by his wife Mischa Epper. Casa Epper is also home to rotating exhibitions, with a collection of photographs of Riva Boats by Olaf Tamm currently on view. The picturesque cottage is surrounded by a lush garden speckled with statues made by the late artist and comes complete with a bocce ball court.
Lake Maggiore. Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Eden Roc
For those craving adventure, the hotel recently launched Moving Mountains, a holistic program aimed to promote a healthy and active lifestyle. Sailing expeditions on Lake Maggiore and hiking excursions to the Castelliere ruins are among the activities that allow visitors to explore the breathtaking nature of the Ticino region. Guests can request a tailor-made itinerary to fit their thrill-seeking level. May it be a paraglide, bike, or Riva boat that get you there, the views of this magical town are sure to be worth the journey.
Cover: Hotel Eden Roc.
Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Eden Roc
