Summer is an Ideal Time to Test the Swiss Waters
Switzerland may conjure up thoughts of divine chocolates and cheeses, but beauty is beholden here with the lakes and mountains as God’s gifts to mankind. When traveling to Switzerland it’s worth considering a tour of some of the top lakes that the country has to offer. Just a short 1-hour train ride from Milan’s city center or directly from Malpensa International Airport, impressive scenery awaits. Lake Lugano suddenly appears and takes your breath away.
Lake Lugano is one of the most spectacular lakes in the world. It is jaw-droppingly beautiful and the majestic Swiss Alps surrounding the lake add to its mystical presence. It is a glacial lake on the border between Northern Italy and Southern Switzerland, thus giving the surrounding area a blend of both cultures. Lake Lugano sits in a prime position between Lake Como and Lake Maggiore in one of the most picturesque regions of the two countries. It is about 22 miles long by 2 miles wide at its longest extremities.
And one of the very best places to stay to be up close and personal with Lake Lugano is the 5-star Swiss Diamond Hotel. This romantic hotel is tucked away in the village of Morcote sitting directly on the shores of Lake Lugano. It is a hidden oasis away from the hustle and bustle of Lugano city center, but close enough to venture for shopping and strolling along the lakeside promenade.
Swiss Diamond Hotel is located at the southern end of the city of Lugano’s peninsula. It provides a lap of lakeside luxury and Alpine escapism. It’s modern exterior contrasts the classic interior with an authentic Romanesque-spa, rooms with furniture resembling that of a Renaissance-age villa, and gourmet food that mixes the best of Swiss and Italian gastronomy and wines. Plus, the 87 rooms, most with views directly overlooking Lake Lugano, is what makes this place so special. The pool and dining areas also keep the lakeside view front and center. It is a totally immersive experience on Lake Lugano when staying at Swiss Diamond Hotel.
Once you enter your Swiss Diamond Hotel lakeside room or suite, you may never want to leave. But if arriving from afar, exploring the spa may be a worthwhile venture into relaxation mode. Saunas, steam and therapeutic treatments await as well as aesthetic medicine and beauty options. For more R&R at the water’s edge, guests can grab a lounge chair on the lawn to recline while watching boats go by. Sooner rather than later, happy hour is calling, and it’s time to make a move to the poolside bar, Lago for the ever-popular Aperol Spritz or libation of choice accompanied with some light bites. Freshening up, before dinner provides a respite moment in an oversized suite with a wonderful terrace hearing the laps of the lake roll over and over.
Tearing away from the sweet suite will be a chore, but cocktails await at the Orient Bar followed by fine dining at the Panorama restaurant. Here specially prepared Mediterranean and international dishes are served at tables with wonderful lake views. Live music soothes the soul while the palette is pleased with gourmet offerings.
The next day, rise and shine to the glistening waters at almost eye-level. Then gear up for a big buffet breakfast at a higher elevation overlooking the lake. After being satiated, it’s time to tour the lake or just jump in. Boat rides can be booked around Lake Lugano with pit stops at many of the quaint lakeside villages like Gandria, an old fishing town. On hand is a hotel shuttle to take guests to town to shop or check out LAC, Lugano Arte e Cultura, or for a leisure stroll on the tree-lined lakeside promenade. If feeling a bit more ambitious, hikes or bike rides or a day trip to Bellagio overlooking Lake Como can be arranged.
Swiss Diamond Hotel is a versatile destination. It is a perfect place for wedding bliss, either to say, “I do” or to head for a honeymoon. Alternatively, if business is on the agenda, the hotel has plenty of space to accommodate meetings and conferences.
All around the area of Lake Lugano in the Swiss Canton of Ticino, there are many sites to see from medieval churches to historic places, art galleries, museums, sidewalk cafes and parks. Lake Lugano is a great starting point for touring other scenic spots nearby. To continue the lake district exploration, after Como of course, magical Lake Maggiore is a must. Stay tuned…