Switzerland's Gorgeous Riviera Is A Budget-Friendly, Less-Crowded Alternative To Lake Como
When you think of Lake Como, you may think of George Clooney or other A-list celebs who gallivant around the tiny villages nestled among the gorgeous scenery. While Lake Como may boast a modern hotel redefining waterfront luxury with swim-up room access, the neighboring country of Switzerland has a stunning riviera that offers a budget-friendly and less crowded alternative to the popular Italian lake.
Typically, when you think or hear of Switzerland, the phrase that doesn't come to mind is affordability. Despite being one of the most expensive countries in the world, there are still ways to experience Switzerland without breaking the bank. In this relatively unheard-of, tiny little paradise tucked away from the tourist trail, visitors can enjoy Swiss beauty without having to remortgage their house after returning from vacation.
A trip to the Gambarogno Riviera is an escape from the usual tourist hotspots. As beautiful as it may be, the locals want it to stay off visitors' radars to avoid the high costs and crowds that plague other Swiss mountain destinations with heavy tourism. With just one look at Gambarogno's waterfront real estate, it's easy to see how its mountainous backdrop, glistening lake, and charming hillside houses can rival the likes of Hallstatt and Lake Como.
Quiet villages offer cheap hiking, dining, and views
The Gambarogno Riviera offers laid-back villages like Vira, tucked along the shores of Lake Maggiore. With an easy drive or ferry ride from Ascona or Locarno, you'll be able to bask in Swiss beauty without the Swiss sticker shock. The region begins in Magadino, where the Ticino River meets Lake Maggiore, and stretches down to Dirinella at the Italian border. From Locarno, there's a direct ferry across the lake, and from Ascona, a quick 10-mile drive via the A13 gets you there in just 16 minutes.
The lack of tourism along this hidden gem in the Ticino canton — Switzerland's Italian-speaking region — is almost hard to believe. Although the area may not draw large tourist crowds, that doesn't mean there aren't beautiful things to see. A stop at the Gambarogno Botanical Park is the perfect way to relax among thousands of flowers and plants for just under $10, all while taking in the stunning mountain views in the distance. The Botanical Park is open every day (except holidays) from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. You can even bring your furry friends, as long as they're kept on a leash.
For those looking to get their steps in while on vacation, take a hike up Monte Gambarogno, which has over 100 miles of trails and gains about 1,100 feet in elevation in just under a mile. Then head down to Osteria Vairano to treat yourself to a well-earned meal on a patio with stellar views of the lake and mountains. Alternatively, visit Ristorante Rodolfo in Vira for a traditional meal of braised beef and polenta, or fish straight from Lake Maggiore.
Take advantage of the Ticino Ticket for even more savings
Whatever you're in the mood for, the Gambarogno Riviera has it. You can boat across the pristine lake surrounded by hillside villages and soaring peaks, enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, then stroll the empty cobblestone streets by evening. What was once the poorest part of the lake is now home to boutique hotels, yet it still retains its old-world charm, with stone houses and churches dotting each village — all at a fraction of the cost of Italy's famed lakeside resorts.
When you think of visiting the Riviera, you think of beaches — just as much as when you think of Switzerland, you think of the Matterhorn. Well, the public beaches of Gambarogno are the place to be when visiting, and the villages of Vira, San Nazzaro, and Gerra are all excellent choices to soak in the Riviera's relaxed atmosphere. With small villages sprinkled along Lake Maggiore's shoreline and mountains rising into the skies above, it's quite easy to see why locals would want to keep this little slice of heaven to themselves.
By Swiss standards, this region offers unbeatable value. Guests staying overnight at a participating hotel, hostel, or campsite can take advantage of the Ticino Ticket, which offers discounts on attractions and free public transportation throughout the region. An affiliated bed and breakfast can cost approximately $149 per night for two adults, which is a bargain. So the next time you're itching to get away from the crowds, but want someplace that's budget-friendly and charming, put the Gambarogno Riviera on your Swiss bucket list.