Tutti all'acqua - Swimming fun in Ticino

Thundering waterfalls, small gorges, secluded river beaches and rocks smoothed by water characterise the landscape of Italian-speaking Switzerland: Nowhere else in Switzerland will you find so many beautiful bathing spots.

In summer, the lush green vegetation and the blue of the numerous bodies of water compete with each other in Ticino. Here, nature is often still wild, full of roaring waterfalls, hidden natural pools, calm rivers and secluded lakes. They all entice you to swim. Although the water in Ticino is sometimes a bit fresh, in summer it reaches 17 to 19 degrees Celsius in many places. Any brief moments of shivering are gladly taken in the fantastic Ticino rock and water landscape. Many of the most beautiful bathing spots are also close to public transport stops and can be easily reached by short walks. Others require longer hikes and a bit of spirit of adventure. But it's always worth it. Because while bathing fun in German-speaking Switzerland mainly means hustle and bustle in swimming pools, bathing in southern Switzerland promises enjoyment in the great outdoors. Here you can bathe in turquoise waterfall pools and in rivers with polished rock formations, where sun-warmed stone slabs invite you to warm up. And even at popular bathing spots, you're often just a few steps away from a secluded corner all to yourself. But be careful: natural waters can also have their pitfalls. A little caution is definitely in order to ensure that your bathing fun will remain a pleasant memory for a long time to come.

Pozzón di Osogna, Riviera

On the edge of the picturesque village of Osogna, the Nala falls from its steep, narrow gorge into a basin on the valley floor. Above the left bank of the basin, hidden under trees, a small grotto offers food and drink. Further basins above.

Outward journey: by Treno Gottardo to Biasca, by bus to Osogna, Paese; Footpath: cross the cobbled village square and head up the hill. Keep to the right by the church and follow the sound of the rushing water.

Riviera Pozz di Vacch, Valle Verzasca

A few minutes from the famous old double-arched stone bridge at Lavertezzo, lies the lesser-known 80-metre-long ‘Pozz di Vacc’ basin with elongated, round-cut rocks in shades of orange and grey.

How to get there: Take the Treno Gottardo to Locarno, then the bus/S-Bahn to Tenero, and finally the 321 bus to Lavertezzo, Paese. Walk: Follow the road past the playground opposite the church down into the valley. Walk along the meadow downstream to the last house.

Piumogna Waterfall, Leventina

The magnificent Piumogna waterfall cascades into a Caribbean-turquoise pool with gently sloping banks. The area around this popular excursion destination is park-like. There is a large children's playground on the way to the waterfall.

How to get there: Take the Treno Gottardo to Faido. From there, take the 118/120 bus to Faido, Posta, and follow the hiking trail signs to ‘Cascata Piumogna’.

Cascata Grande, Maggia Valley

The 85-metre-high Ri grande waterfall is visible from afar. It is even more imposing up close. You can swim in its basin. The waterfall can also be viewed from the bathing area a few steps below.

How to get there: Take the Treno Gottardo to Locarno, then the 315 bus to Bignasco, Posta. Walk: cross the bridge and go straight ahead into the old village centre. Turn right there and follow the road to the waterfall.

Pozzasc, Maggia Valley

Today, the former small mill on the Peccia stream is a grotto. It's the perfect place to warm up with a plate of polenta after a dip in the cold stream. Or simply lie down on the large warm rocks.

How to get there: Take the Treno Gottardo to Locarno, then the 315 bus to Bignasco, Posta. Walk: cross the bridge and go straight ahead into the old village centre. Turn right and follow the road to the waterfall.

Golino, Centovalli

The 50-metre-long sandy beach on the Melezza attracts many people. You will find a rock formation and beautiful pools upstream and more secluded spots in the rocks and a pool downstream. There is a kiosk and restaurant in the Al Ponte Antico hotel.

How to get there: Take the Treno Gottardo to Locarno, then the 324 bus to Golino, Posta; Footpath: Follow the signposts to ‘Golino’ to the bridge, cross the bridge and go down to the beach below.