The Golf Club Villa d’Este is situated in the hills above Como and dominates Lake Montorfano. The course presents views of incredible beauty amidst more than 30,000 chestnut trees, pines and birches – a corner of paradise which attracts the world’s most refined golfers, no matter whether they come from the European aristocracy, industry, the arts or the cinema.

The Ticinesi wine Culdrèe comes from the small Trapletti vineyard. This young family business, which is situated on the gentle slopes of Mendrisiotto between Mendrisio and Chiasso, has earned itself a solid reputation among enlightened wine lovers. The journal Vinum named it the best Ticinesi wine, then it was acclaimed as the best Swiss wine made from a single type of vine at the first Swiss wine competition in 2004, and in 2006 it was awarded a gold medal: the Culdrèe is accumulating awards, and rightly so in the case of this exceptional merlot, matured in barrique, which Enrico Trapletti will be glad to let you taste in the heart of his cellar. T. +41 (0)91 646 45 08, traplettivini@ticino.com

Shopping in Via Nassa is an unforgettable experience: the most stylish boutiques and the most elegant jewellers’ mingle with antique shops in the shade of graceful arcades which line the street and instil it with an elegant charm all its own. From time to time, a delightful terrace invites passers-by to sit down and enjoy a wonderful gastronomic feast. Following the example of LES AMBASSADEURS, a number of international labels have chosen Via Nassa on account of its character, which combines glamour with tradition and entices people to stroll along magnificent Lake Lugano.

Based in Castel San Pietro, Pamp is specialised in the art of working with precious metals. This company displays a permanent inventiveness that has earned them a position among the world leaders in this field. Ingots, coins and medals reveal a limitless creativity and are evidence of exceptional knowhow. It is well worth visiting this company to obtain an idea of the beauty of its products.

A magnificent island measuring barely one square kilometre on Swiss territory, mid-way between the Ponte-Chiasso border and Lugano, Campione d’Italia is an Italian enclave in Canton Ticino. This small town on the shores of Lake Lugano is home to Europe’s largest casino. With its 55,000 square metres spread over nine floors, its four restaurants and its wide range of games, the municipal casino of Campione d’Italia gives visitors a foretaste of Las Vegas, plunging them into the heart of a city dedicated to entertainment and offering them shows, events and concerts by world-class artists.

It is indeed possible to combine technical and aesthetic perfection with the sheer emotion one feels when contemplating a timeless masterpiece, whether that means observing a fine watch or flying over the Alps or Lake Lugano aboard a helicopter. And if you feel like learning how to take over the controls, you can request the assistance of a chief instructor. So see you at Lugano airport!

All watchmakers are aware of the importance of oils, since they serve to lubricate movements. Needless to say, for a watchmaker of Mediterranean origin, table oils are of particular importance in daily life and nutrition. To enhance dishes and their flavours, Salvatore Cucinotto advises using an incomparable AOP extra-virgin olive oil: “Feudotto” Val di Mazara, made in Menfi, Sicily, by “La Goccia d’Oro”. T. +41 (0)91 697 63 43, info@borgovecchio.ch

The Malcantone region provides many opportunities for leisure activities: nature, tranquillity, and the invigoratingly mild climate all make it easy to rest. A simple side trip through the villages in this region of art and culture will introduce you to the wealth of its rich architectural heritage. For those who prefer more active vacations, the region lends itself to excursions of all kinds and has excellent facilities for many sports, especially golf, diving, horseback riding and tennis.

The Alprose chocolate museum reveals the world of chocolate, from its origins to the present day. Historic dates, characteristic ingredients, first production sites, current varieties: no aspect of this timeless product has been neglected. Aside from its great educational interest, this museum strengthens the tradition of excellence in Swiss chocolate, the quality of which has been amply demonstrated.

Antica Masseria is an oasis of well-being for horses and horse-lovers. This stud farm, located in Astana in Upper Malcantone, has a small breeding operation for quarter horses and paint horses. In this magical place that transcends time, the horses lead a healthy life, spending their days — and nights, as weather permits — on the meadows with the herd. Riding lessons and excursions are offered regularly.

Atenaeo del Vino is an authentic wine library situated in the historic centre of Mendrisio, a charming little town near Lugano. Marco Rasetti, the wine waiter of the house, will be pleased to suggest more than wines to you, often specialities from the Ticino in the south of Switzerland. They are specially selected from among the best vintages of Switzerland, Italy, France, Spain, California and Chile so as to make a wine-tasting session a highly memorable experience. Salute!

Towering over Canton Ticino, Monte Generoso definitely offers one of Switzerland’s most spectacular panoramas. From its peak at an altitude of 1,704 metres above sea level, one can enjoy endless views of the Alps, Northern Italy and of the region dotted with sparkling gems such as the lakes of Lugano, Como, Varese and Maggiore. If you’re an earlybird, the sunrise there will be an unforgettable memory – and if not, sunsets are pretty fabulous too!

Zincarlin is a hand-crafted product truly typical of traditional local flavours. A cheese based on a blend of cow’s and goat’s milk, it is distinguished by its orangey colour and its peppery taste. You can sample it during a visit to the Muggio Valley (Mendrisiotto), the historical heart of its production area.

The Bruli shirt shop specialises in the creation of top-class clothes. Owned and run since its founding by the Brülisauer family, it has earned itself a loyal clientele by brilliantly interpreting classic tastes with a modern twist. The owner’s son Marco will be delighted to show you the details and subtle features that make a hand-crafted shirt a genuine haute couture creation.

If you wish to discover the best of Ticino cuisine, we recommend a dinner at the Montalbano restaurant in Stabio. The establishment is located in an 18th century colonial style mansion set in a vineyard estate 20 kilometres south of Lugano. Its owner, Claudio Croci Torti, loves to spoil his guests with seasonal cuisine and delicious regional specialities: Ticino black truffles, smoked fish,asparagus, aromatic herbs, authentic products and fine wines. If you appreciate the charm of local traditions, you will certainly not regret your visit to the “Montalbano”.

Ascona is an internationally renowned cultural and tourist town stretching along a magnificent sunny bay. Nicknamed “the Pearl of Lake Maggiore” because of its beauty, it has developed harmoniously around its historical centre brimming with museums, galleries and antiques shops. A stroll along the lakeside and through the narrow streets of the old town evokes memories of tales from the medieval and Renaissance periods.

The Santa Margherita riding school nestles at the heart of a gorgeous natural setting near the picturesque village of Stabio. It offers a number of equestrian activities for adults and children, making it an ideal place in which to spend a day in the open air amid unspoilt surroundings. Faced with a broad programme to choose from, newcomers will always be welcome to chat with a competent staff member regarding any questions relating to the equestrian world. If you wish to spend some pleasant times with your friends and family, we warmly suggest a visit to these stables, where you can also enjoy an excellent meal after long rides in the nearby woods. Let your imagine gallop free and reconnect with your inner child. T. +41 (0)76 369 55 56

Discover the enchanting scenery of Lake Lugano and the surrounding mountains. The Società Navigazione del Lago di Lugano offers a wide range of cruises on various boats within its fleet that includes the magnificent San Gottardo inaugurated in 2001. Set off for Porlezza, tour the Gulf of the entire Lake Ceresio, and enjoy a delicious meal in the company’s “Styl” restaurant with its innovative cuisine that will set the perfect final touch to your trip.

The pyramid-shaped, wooded Mount San Giorgio lies south of Lake Lugano. The site is brimming with fossil records of marine life from the Triassic Period (dated around 240 million years ago). The Meride Museum located at its foot exhibits the vestiges of a bygone age. Allow yourself to be carried away by this exotic cultural journey to the core of time, in the heart of Canton Ticino.

The Villa Principe Leopoldo is one of the finest luxury addresses in Ticino. A genuine haven of peace that is appreciated by the greatest stars and businessmen, it is a Belle Époque architectural gem. Famous guests have included José Carreras, Jean Reno and Dee Dee Bridgewater. The road that leads there, winding through the famous Collina d’Oro, is an experience in itself. Built just a few steps from the mansion of German author Herman Hesse, the Principe Leopoldo overlooks Lake Lugano from its idyllic panoramic terraces. Its prestigious restaurant and splendid bar further contribute to its reputation for excellence and prestige.

All the charm of a welcome break, in which body and soul refocus on essentials. Located in the Ticino village of Stabio, known for its thermal baths, Il Bello delle Donne is an island beyond the reach of time. Treatments dedicated to the beauty of the face and body, including massages and manicures, all procure a delicious sense of relaxation that awaits you just around the corner of a cobbled street. T. +41 (0)91 630 91 13

A precious pearl on the lake shore just a few steps from Lugano town centre, this eminently historical yet unmistakably contemporary establishment exudes a calm, sensitive atmosphere that has contributed to its romantic image since 1870. It took the narrative elegance of Marcel Proust to describe the exceptional views from its luxurious rooms and terraces overlooking the Alps, the town and the aristocratic beauty of the swans gliding across the water. Imbued with Swiss perfectionism and all manner of modern comforts and excellence, the hotel with its famous restaurant and idyllic wellness centre certainly deserves its title as a modern-day “paradise”.

Located near the legendary Grand Hôtel Villa Castagnola and offering an exquisite tête-à-tête encounter with Lake Lugano amid an elegant décor dotted with works of art, this restaurant welcomes an elite and loyal clientele enamoured of its refined Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. In step with a menu that changes weekly, the brilliant chef Frank Oerthle – awarded 16 points by the GaultMillau gourmet guide – and his team delight sophisticated palates with their contemporary inspirations, delicate flavours and the freshness of the products they use. The dishes arematched by an harmonious selection from the richly stocked wine cellar.

The shores of Lake Lugano are home to this splendid and majestically calm area just a few steps from the town. With its time-honoured trees and beautifully groomed English-style lawns, this 63,000m2 green “lung” is one of the finest parks in Switzerland. Its squares and paths dotted with statues and fountains lead to several beautiful buildings including the 17th century Villa Ciani which houses the Fine Arts Museum.

A rustic inn – or “grotto” as they are known in Ticino – nestling amid the vineyards and which owes its picturesque appearance to a spacious terrace affording panoramic views over the lake and the city of Lugano. Guests enjoy a chance to savour local products and typical regional cooking, including polenta (cornmeal) and gorgonzola cheese and ossobuco (braised veal shank).

Ensconced on the shores of Lake Lugano, this oasis of serenity is nestled at the heart of wonderful subtropical grounds. This former residence of Russian aristocrats is now a five-star hotel that has succeeded in preserving the charm of its past while combining it with toprate amenities. A luxury hotel, a villa and a resort all in one, the Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola meets the most demanding requirements within an elegant, discreet and refined atmosphere.

A ten-minute drive from Lugano, the museum located in the bend of the gulf of Caslano exhibits a rich collection of objects and old boats that illustrate the history of fishing in the large lakes of Lugano, Verbano, and the pre-Alpine waterways. Visitors wishing to enter fully into the aquatic theme can reach the museum by boat.

The 1,650 metre-high ridge trail leading from Monte Lema to Monte Tamaro offers spectacular views over the Ticinese and Italian pre-Alpine valleys, as well as Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore – all set against the backdrop of the Monte Rosa and the majestic Matterhorn. The highlight of this 13 kilometre trek is the Santa Maria degli Angeli church designed by famous Swiss architect Mario Botta.

Monte Tamaro is a peak located at the heart of the Lugano-Bellinzona-Locarno triangle. A cable car from Rivera that is easily accessible by public or private transport carries passengers to the 1,530-metre Foppa Alp, where Santa Maria degli Angeli church, designed by architect Mario Botta, sits on an extraordinary natural terrace. Monte Tamaro is the ideal starting point for hikes to explore the trails and enjoy panoramic views. At the middle cable-car station, an adventure park enables children, teens and adults to be at peace with nature, to escape their daily lives, to discover the emotions and joys of outdoor adventure and activities in a setting that respects the environment.