Dolce Vita near the lake (84)

Ascona, often called the “Pearl of Lake Maggiore”, internationally famous as a holiday resort with a high cultural level, lies on the delta of the River Maggia in a unique, sunlit bay. The privileged location in the midst of a varied landscape, the southern climate, a long tradition in tourism and the inhabitants’ pronounced sense of hospitality result in ideal conditions for holidays and relaxation and establish Ascona’s reputation as a fairytale holiday resort. The rich heritage of culture and art in this old town is remarkable, with numerous witnesses from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. There are also many traces of artists who lived in Ascona from the 17th century onwards, including the unique baroque façade of the Casa Serodine, which is particularly impressive. However, it was the turn of the century that brought Ascona the most fascinating period in its cultural history: a group of people from the north in search of a life close to nature settled on the hill above Ascona and called it “Monte Verità”, mountain of truth.