Tour Name: Brissago in Autumn: Where Autumn Paints the Landscape!
Main Point: Switzerland – Brissago in Autumn: Why battle the chilly winds, grey skies, and falling leaves when you can enjoy golden lake views, crisp mountain air, and sun-drenched afternoons in Brissago? This hidden gem, lovingly known as 'die Sonnenstube der Schweiz' (the sunroom of Switzerland), offers the perfect autumn escape. Instead of bundling up for gloomy weather, trade it all for a scenic walk among colourful foliage, basking in Brissago’s warm embrace.
Don’t let autumn pass you by—come experience the sunny side of the season in Brissago!
Tour Short Description: Embrace the autumn charm of Brissago, where the golden hues of fall meet the serene beauty of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains. This picturesque Swiss town offers a peaceful autumn escape, with mild temperatures, vibrant foliage, and scenic lakeside strolls. Enjoy the crisp, fresh air as you explore nearby hiking trails or relax and admire the stunning landscape, where Brissago’s Mediterranean warmth blends beautifully with the cozy, colourful essence of autumn.
Road Type: Well-paved roads, narrow in some places
Recommended Start Point: Brissago (Switzerland) or any other major city in Switzerland or north of Italy (Milano, Bergamo)
Interests: relax, lake, hiking, villages, culture, tradition, wine & food, city architecture
Tour Type: Walking in a Swiss town by the lake in winter
Recommended Duration: 3-4 days or more
Transport Type: Walking, self-driving, bus, public transport
Physical Effort: Easy
Adventure Type: Kid-Friendly Escapes
Language: Mostly Italian (and some German+ English)
Accommodation: A fantastic private vacation apartment with a direct lake view and 3 bedrooms is available via Airbnb or directly at www.brissago4u.ch
For more details, consult 4BTravelGuide's Brissago and area photo albums and explanations in the Google Photos album.
AUTUMN - Brissago: Where Autumn Paints the Landscape!
Brissago Islands - A Three-Season Retreat at Lago Maggiore
Extra Brissago's Picture Albums:
SPRING-Brissago: A Springtime Symphony of Colors https://photos.app.goo.gl/9gkeoag7reMxzd4Y9
SUMMER - Discovering Ticino's Summer Gem on Lake Maggiore
WINTER - Brissago: Embrace Winter's Charm https://photos.app.goo.gl/btzCKxEESp8YWqry5
Val Bavona Valley (Ticino, Switzerland): Nature’s Masterpiece in Vallemaggia https://photos.app.goo.gl/GatdhMCSuVxBfFWL8
Why coming to Brissago in Autumn?
Autumn in Brissago is pure magic—a blend of vibrant colors, crisp air, and serene landscapes. With Lake Maggiore reflecting golden sunsets, the mountains dusted with amber leaves, and the mild Mediterranean climate, it's the perfect time to explore the town's rich culture, outdoor adventures, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Whether you’re hiking, strolling through the old town, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, Brissago in autumn offers a uniquely enchanting experience.
Autumn Activities in Brissago
Experience the magic of autumn in Brissago, where vibrant fall colours blend with the stunning backdrop of Lake Maggiore. From scenic hikes and chestnut festivals to wine tastings and relaxing lake cruises, Brissago offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation during the autumn season.
Explore the Brissago Islands and Botanical Gardens
Brissago Islands are open to visitors until late October. You can take a boat trip to explore the stunning botanical gardens, which showcase exotic plants that thrive in Brissago's mild climate. The autumn colours add a special charm to the landscape. View our Album: Brissago Islands - A Three-Season Retreat at Lago Maggiore
2. Hiking and Nature Walks
Hiking towards Capanna al Legn
In autumn, Capanna al Legn transforms into a peaceful retreat amidst vibrant foliage and crisp mountain air. Perched at 1,784 meters above Brissago, this rustic mountain hut offers breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding golden-hued peaks. As you hike through the chestnut forests and ascend toward Monte Ghiridone, Capanna al Legn serves as the perfect spot to pause, take in the stunning autumn landscape, and experience the tranquillity of nature at its finest. This cozy refuge adds a magical touch to the autumn season, whether for a day hike or an overnight adventure.
Pizzo Leone: For more adventurous hikers, the trails leading to Pizzo Leone offer incredible views of the lake and mountains.
Play Tennis in Brissago
Tennis Club Brissago – Play on scenic courts year-round, with hourly rates of CHF 13 for members and CHF 20 for guests. Book online and access the courts with a QR code.
Extras & Services – Racket rentals are available (April–October), along with changing rooms and showers. Private lessons can also be arranged.
https://www.tcbrissago.com/de/info (in German or Italian)
Wine Tours and Tastings
Autumn is the perfect time to explore the local vineyards.
Ticino is famous for its Merlot, and there are several vineyards in the area where you can enjoy wine-tasting tours. The hills around Brissago and nearby areas just outside Locarno offer excellent opportunities to sample the region’s finest wines in scenic settings.
Brissago is known for its local wine production, which benefits from the mild climate of Ticino and the sun-soaked slopes around Lake Maggiore. Though the region is smaller compared to other Swiss wine areas, it still offers unique, high-quality wines.
Experience the rich flavours of Ticino with a guided wine tasting by Fabio Zanini at Giromit Winery in Brissago. Savour locally crafted wines while learning about the region’s unique winemaking traditions in a picturesque setting.
The Giromit winery traces its origins back to 1920, when Giovanni Odoro Zanini combined family farming with viticulture in Incella, Brissago. His passion was passed down through generations, culminating in Fabio Zanini, who modernized the vineyards while preserving tradition. Today, Giromit produces high-quality wines with eco-conscious methods, continuing the family legacy with innovation and dedication.
Book your wine-tasting event at: Giromit Sagl, Via Costa di Mezzo 92a, CH 6614 Brissago
+41 794634845
Another option is to take a tour of the nearby wineries in Locarnio area, taste the region’s signature Merlot, and learn about the winemaking process.
Here are some of the best wineries around Locarno:
Matasci Vini – Famous for its 'Selezione d'Ottobre' Merlot. www.matasci-vini.ch
Vini & Distillati Angelo Delea SA – Offers wine tastings and a wine museum. www.delea.ch
Cantina alla Maggia & Terreni alla Maggia – Produces wines from the Maggia River Delta. www.terreniallamaggia.ch
Cantina Carrara – A family-run winery specializing in Merlot www.cantinacarrara.ch
Cantine Stucky-Hügin – Renowned for high-quality wine production. www.stucky-weine.ch
Wine Cellar Chiodi Ascona SA – A well-established winery in Ascona. www.chiodi.ch
and many more
More information about wineries in the area: https://www.ascona-locarno.com/en/what-to-do/gastronomy-restaurants/wineries
Attend Autumn Festivals
Experience the magic of autumn in Brissago with vibrant festivals celebrating local traditions, music, and cuisine.
Brissago’s Autumn Festival – A lively celebration in Piazza Municipio with traditional food, local wines, chestnut roasting, live music, and fun games for all ages! More: https://www.ticino.ch/en/events/details/Autumn-Festival-/139311.html
Autumn Fairs: Many nearby villages host seasonal markets and fairs with local produce, crafts, and regional delicacies.
More: https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-ch/experiences/events/events-search/-/ticino/?rubrik=autumnevents
Churches in Brissago
Brissago has several charming churches that reflect its rich cultural and historical heritage.
Key churches in the town include:
Sacro Monte & Church of S. Maria Addolorata – Brissago
Historic Sanctuary (1767-1773) – Built by Antonio Francesco Branca, featuring a Baroque church and Stations of the Cross. Artistic Heritage – Adorned with rococo stuccoes, frescoes by G.A.F. Orelli, and a grand polychrome marble altar from 1773.
Sacred & Scenic – A tranquil pilgrimage site surrounded by woodlands, offering panoramic views and spiritual reflection. More: https://www.ticino.ch/commons/details/2846.html
Church of Madonna di Ponte: A small, picturesque church near the lake, Madonna di Ponte dates back to the 14th century. It’s known for its serene atmosphere and frescoes depicting religious scenes.
Church of Santi Pietro e Paolo: Brissago’s main parish church is located in the old town. It dates back to the 16th century and features a blend of Baroque and Renaissance architecture, with beautiful frescoes and a peaceful interior.
Boat Rides on Lake Maggiore
Experience the beauty of Lake Maggiore with a scenic boat ride, gliding across its crystal-clear waters surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Whether you choose a relaxing cruise, a visit to the Brissago Islands, or a trip to charming lakeside villages, every journey offers a unique and unforgettable perspective of this stunning region.
Take a boat ride on Lake Maggiore to enjoy the tranquil waters, crisp autumn air, and views of the colourful foliage along the lakeshore. The boat services run until late October, making it a great way to experience the beauty of the season.
One special option is to experience the beauty of Lake Maggiore with a private cruise aboard Favore, a sleek 35-foot First 35 sailboat. Let skipper Martin Frauchiger guide you on a relaxing journey across the lake’s stunning waters, surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery.
Booking cruises with the skipper on Lake Maggiore:
Boats Name: Favore
Boat Typ: First 35
Length: 35 feet long
Skipper Name: Martin Frauchiger
Mobile +41 79 602 87 92
Website: https://segeln-tessin.ch/
Online boat reservation: https://lagomaggiore.cruises/reservations-anfrage/
Relax and Enjoy Local Cuisine
Autumn brings hearty seasonal dishes like risotto, polenta, and game meat specialties to the menus of local restaurants. Enjoy lakeside dining in one of Brissago’s cozy trattorias, where you can savour the flavours of Ticino with a view of the lake.
Whether you’re looking for fresh seafood, authentic pizza, or fine dining, here are the top places to eat in Brissago:
Grotto Dining: Spring is a great time to enjoy traditional Ticinese cuisine at a local grotto—rustic restaurants often found in the hills around Brissago and nearby Ascona. Try local specialties like polenta, risotto, and fish from the lake, all paired with regional wines.
Our favourite Grotto is: Osteria Borei (Via Ghiridone 77, 6614 Brissago) Tel +41 (0)91 793 01 95
Osteria Borei sits above Brissago village at 800 meters altitude, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Maggiore. The restaurant is accessible via narrow, winding roads leading up from the village center. https://www.osteriaborei.ch/
Snack -Bar Bahia, Brissago – ( Via al Lago 4, 6614 Brissago, Svizzera, +41 79 394 9978) A stylish snack bar & café managed by Salvatore and his wife Donatella by the lakeside, offering a serene and elegant setting to enjoy Lake Maggiore. Relaxed Lounge Vibes – Unwind on granite steps amid Mediterranean greenery, with soft music and a tranquil ambiance, even in high season. 🍹 Drinks & Delights – Sip on a draft beer, Aperol Spritz, Mojitos, or local Gazosa, paired with Ticino small platters, fresh salads, and cheese specialties. https://www.bahiabrissago.ch/
Pizzeria: Ristorante Pizzeria Gabietta (Via Gabbietta 6, 6614 Brissago) - A favourite for pizza lovers, Gabietta serves wood-fired pizzas, homemade pasta, and seafood with a relaxed lakeside vibe. https://ristorantegabietta.ch/
Osteria Boato (Viale Lungolago, 6614 Brissago)
An elegant, friendly place offering delicious fresh fish dishes, great wines, and a relaxed lakeside setting. https://osteriaboato.ch/en/osteria-boato-brissago/
Restaurant Seerestaurant Kalea (Viale Lungolago 2, 6614 Brissago)
Excellent setting, comfortable seating, beautiful overall design, a friendly team, great food, fine wines, delicious cocktails, and stunning lake views. https://www.restaurant-kalea.ch/
8. Photography
The vibrant autumn colours and the surrounding natural beauty make Brissago a great spot for photography enthusiasts.
Other activities around Brissago:
Monte Verità: Enjoy a scenic hike or walk through the surrounding hills, offering panoramic views of Lake Maggiore framed by the golden autumn foliage.
Nearby Valleys: Visit valleys like Vallemaggia or Valle Verzasca to explore picturesque villages and nature trails while enjoying the fall colours.
Ascona and Locarno: Just a short trip away, you can visit art galleries, museums, and historic sites in Ascona and Locarno, offering a rich cultural experience during the quieter autumn months.
Visit Museums and Art Galleries
Museums
Autumn is the perfect time to explore the rich cultural heritage of Locarno, Ascona, and Lugano through their captivating museums.
As the shorter days settle in, these charming towns offer a cozy retreat from the chill, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in art, history, and local culture.
From the contemporary exhibitions of the MASI Museo d'Arte in Lugano (https://www.masilugano.ch/masi/home.html) to the fascinating collections at the Municipal Museum of Modern Art Ascona www.museoascona.ch in Ascona and the engaging displays at the Ghisla Art Collection Locarno https://www.ghisla-art.ch/ or Museo Casa Rusca https://museocasarusca.ch/ in Locarno, there's something for every art and history enthusiast.
Art Galleries
Here is a list of notable art galleries and museums around Brissago:
Amici dell'Arte (Brissago) – Local gallery showcasing regional artists.
Museo Leoncavallo (Brissago) – Dedicated to composer Ruggero Leoncavallo.
Museo Comunale d'Arte Moderna (Ascona) – Features avant-garde and modern art.
Masi Lugano (Lugano) – Museum of Swiss-Italian art, including contemporary works.
Fondazione Ghisla Art Collection (Locarno) – Private collection of modern and contemporary art.
Museo Casa Rusca (Locarno) – Art museum with rotating exhibitions of contemporary and classical works.
Accommodation
Accommodation: Brissago offers a range of accommodations, from charming lakeside hotels to cozy guesthouses and holiday apartments, providing a perfect stay by Lake Maggiore.
Important note: A fantastic private vacation apartment Brissago4u.ch with Lago Maggiore lake view is available directly at www.brissago4u.ch (3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, accommodates 6 adults, shared 300m2 rooftop with direct lake view and lounge beds) and many other amenities. Availability Info via Airbnb https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/25044003
Experience the Magic of Autumn in Brissago
As summer fades, Brissago and its surroundings transform into a breathtaking autumn paradise. The golden hues of the vineyards, the crisp mountain air, and the serene waters of Lake Maggiore create an enchanting atmosphere for travellers. Hike through colourful forest trails, enjoy a peaceful boat ride to the Brissago Islands, or savour seasonal delicacies in cozy local restaurants. The quieter months bring a sense of tranquillity and charm, making autumn the perfect time to explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Brissago at a slower, more intimate pace.
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