The Swiss region of Ticino is named after the Ticino river and is the only canton where Italian is the sole official language.
The Mediterranean region seems to begin on the southern side of the Alps and there is a feel of Italy throughout, with palm trees at the beaches and lanes and alleyways leading to piazzas and churches.
For a range of new accommodation in Ticino
Seven Boutique Hotel
The new Seven Boutique Hotel has opened on Ascona's lakeside promenade, following the merger between the Al Porto and Schiff Hotels.
The 63 rooms are distributed across five buildings on the lakeside promenade and offer views of Lake Maggiore and the Ticino mountains.
Boutique Hotel Albergo Brione
Boutique Hotel Albergo Brione is new four-star property with seven rooms and suites, all with balcony or terrace and views of Locarno and Lake Maggiore.
The Hostelleria Avejo
Opened in Linescio in September 2016, the Hostelleria Avejo is situated in a clearing encircled by woods above the Rovana ravine in the Maggia Valley.
A project initiated by the Fondazione Rivivere, an organisation with nature conservation ideals, the hostel offers holidays in harmony with nature in the wild Ticino valley.
The four rustico-style buildings dating from the 17th century have been restored.
Guided walks lead through the terraced landscapes to churches, chapels, sweet chestnut groves, mills, ancient ovens and chestnut drying barns (grà), which form this corner of the Maggia Valley.
The Fusio Hotel
Fusio, the highest village in the Lavizzara Valley, is located at the back of the Maggia Valley and popular with nature-lovers in summer due to the freshness of its mountain climate.
The village features a number of historical buildings, including the Fusio Hotel which, after 46 years in a derelect state, reopened in April 2017.
The three-year renovation was led by local architect Giovan Luigi Dazio, a specialist in the restoration and repurposing of ancient buildings.
Also part of the hotel is the 20-seater Da Noi restaurant, a 40-seater outdoor terrace, a roof lounge and various rooms devoted to receptions and functions.
Glamping on Lake Lugano
Located on the shores of Lake Lugano, the TCS 4-star Lugano Muzzano campsite has its own harbour with water sports, a swimming pool, a splashing pool, a sunbathing lawn, a climbing wall, a playground and tennis/sports facilities.