Villa Principe Leopoldo

Enjoy a vibrant and modern experience in this picturesque luxury resort on the edge of Lake Lugano. Look out onto the gulf where marine birds sweep through the sky above waters that sparkle a brilliant turquoise. Heavily forested mountains stretch off into the distance while boats and yachts lazily make their way across one’s view, speedboats zipping by beneath bright Swiss sunshine.

The hotel’s 18 suites are contemporary in design with teak floors, designer furniture and deep oversized bath tubs. All rooms come with a terrace that looks out over the lake.

Enjoy beautifully prepared and presented dishes at the restaurant alongside an impressive selection of specialty beers and Italian, Swiss and French wines. An expertly mixed cocktail awaits at the main bar, while the poolside bar is your port of call for refreshing juices and healthy snacks.

Unwind in the tranquil spa which features a sauna, Jacuzzi, Turkish baths and salt rooms. There is also an indoor pool and fitness centre.

Beyond the doors of The View is the city of Lugano, with a rich history and cultural heritage. There are numerous art galleries to explore as well as pretty streets lined with opulent palazzi.

Surrounded by forested mountain slopes and snowy peaks, the Castello del Sole E is found on a 14-hectare estate that boasts beautiful landscaped gardens that roll down towards Lake Maggiore. The original buildings date back to 1532 and it has retained its old-world elegance while offering everything you would expect from a contemporary luxury hotel.

The 78 rooms and suites are spread across the main building and the Locarno and Ascona pavilions. The majority come with views of the park that stretches down to the shores of Lake Maggiore. Some are decorated in warm Mediterranean colours while others are more simplistic in design with exposed stone walls and a monochrome colour scheme.

Dining is a pleasure, with three restaurants offering everything from fine dining to casual meals on the terrace. Enjoy a cocktail or after dinner drink at the bar or in the quaint inner courtyard.

With the mesmerising waters of Lake Maggiore just metres away, guests will no doubt want to explore this watery wonderland. The hotel has its own private beach – a bar and terrace means refreshments are always on hand as well as pedal boats, paddle skis and motorboats if you feel like an aquatic adventure. The small marina adjoins a WWF bird sanctuary, a popular activity for adults and children alike.

There is a spa with a sauna, indoor pool and Jacuzzi for when you want to simply drift away, and for little ones there is plenty to do with a playground, donkey farm and organised treasure hunts.

The crystal waters of Lake Maggiore sparkle before guests as they approach the Villa Orselina, a luxury hotel overlooking this Alpine paradise.

28 luxurious, modern rooms sit perched above the city of Locarno. Simple and elegant in design, they are characterised by a crisp white colour scheme and most come with a balcony from which to drink in the sweeping lake views.

Il Ristorante di Villa Orselina offers delicious Mediterranean cuisine inspired by neighbouring Italy. La Pergola is idyllically set among lush subtropical gardens while the Panorama lounge and bar with its grand fireplace and views of the mountains is the perfect place to unwind after a day exploring.

While you could easily spend your time relaxing in the spa and embracing the art of ‘dolce far niente’, there are also excellent gym facilities as well as a tennis court for those who fancy stretching their muscles. Cool off in the indoor or outdoor pool, let go in the Finnish sauna or steam bath, or enjoy a relaxing treatment. There’s also a handful of scenic golf courses in the area and mountain bikes to borrow.