Golf
Adventure
Are you a fan of Ticino’s spectacular lakeside and pre-alpine nature? If you play golf, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable experience on the golf courses of Ascona,on the shores of Lake Maggiore; of Losone, set against a fluvial backdrop; or the one of Magliaso, located just a few kilometers from the city between the shores of Lake Lugano and along the banks of its tributary. Three different backdrops on courses of high technical contents. If you have not yet tried your hand at this sport, you can take advantage of a first approach in their practice areas Pitch&Putt with covered spaces and putting greens.
Founded in 1923 by Erwin von Riedeman in honor of is wife, who was passionate of golf, Magliaso was the first golf course opened in Ticino. A few years later, in 1932, the Ascona golf course opened its doors to the public. The Losone course, built in 2001, is the most recent addition to the Ticino golfing scene and was designed by the internationally renowned Harradine Golf firm whose current owner and senior architect is Donald Harradine’s son.
The Ascona Golf Club
Considered among one of the most spectacular in Switzerland, its 18 holes wind through majestic trees on the shores of Lake Maggiore, amidst scenery of breathtaking beauty. Since the 1930s, the Ascona Golf Club has been the meeting place of affluent tourists, intellectuals, businessmen, politicians, sportsmen and showbiz personalities. From the day that it was opened, the Ascona course has been considered “the most beautiful 9-hole in Europe”. Converted into an 18-hole course in 1957, this small corner of paradise has gained international repute thanks to the increasing number of celebrities who come here to play on its fairways. Boasting a high technical level, the course offers a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, challenging and enthralling professionals and neophytes alike.
Featuring a large terrace overlooking the course, the restaurant at the Club House serves Mediterranean specialties.
The Losone Golf Club
Opened in 2001, it hosted the largest tournament of the Ladies European Tour from 2006 to 2012. Situated at the intersection of the Maggia Valley and the Centovalli, this golf course is distinguished by a fluvial, Mediterranean landscape, where the Melezza River runs into the Maggia River. A stream forming a variety of small lakes runs along its 18 holes. Renowned architect Peter Harradine further enhanced the natural beauties of the area by creating a course designed to challenge golfers at all levels. The first half of the course features a variety of short but tricky holes, later becoming more technical and challenging,.
The facility also has a three-hole Pitch&Putt course. No handicap is required to access this course and it provides an excellent opportunity to fine-tune your short game.
A restaurant, situated on the first floor of the Club House, offers Mediterranean specialties.
The Lugano Golf Club
The Lugano Golf Club is situated in Magliaso, in the picturesque region of Malcantone, just a few kilometers from the center of the city, near the airport. Located near to the lake, it winds over flat ground amidst birch, oak and pine woods and clusters of rhododendrons. The course, originally designed by architect Percy Dell, in 1970 was extended from 9 to 18 holes by famed architect Donald Harradine. It is extremely technical and challenging due to the almost constant presence of water hazards and narrow fairways, often limited by lush vegetation. The Magliasina River is flanked or crossed on at least eight occasions, offering players an ongoing challenge. Long holes, designed for powerful play, are alternated with shorter, narrower ones that require greater precision.
For a First Approach
Are you thinking of taking advantage of the holidays to start learning this sport? The Locarno Golf School, situated near to the city’s Lido, is the ideal place. Set within the lush green surroundings of the Maggia’s delta, it features a nine-hole Pitch&Putt course, 2 Putting Green and a driving range.