Travel is about little gem discoveries as much as it’s about telling stories. These are the distinctive memories that stick in your mind and make your trip an unforgettable one.
Brissago was our gem from Lago Maggiore. On a previous trip, we passed through there and, seeing the Brissago islands from the coast, we agreed that we would return. And we did it! Located on the Swiss side of Lago Maggiore, Brissago is just 10-15 minutes from Ascona and Locarno and a couple of minutes from the Italian border. Our hosts in Brissago, Parkhotel Brenscino, made all the difference during this trip! The location uphill with a breathtaking view on the lake makes the hotel exceptional and one of the best hotels in Brissago. We were told that all the rooms come with lake view so you cannot get it wrong! Brissago Islands are within view reach.
The wonderful pool of the Parkhotel Brenscino
Immediately after we arrived at Parkhotel Brenscino, we hit the pool to cool down and refresh after a long trip. What a wonderful view over lake Maggiore and Brissago Islands! We scrapped the beaches search we did on the way and installed our “chaises-longues” to enjoy the warm summer vibes. There was another small pool for children next to the big pool. No wonder the Parkhotel Brenscino became a favourite family destination with such atmosphere!And one of the most sought after hotels in Brissago.
Dinning next to the Brissago Islands
For the evening we wanted to discover the town centre of Brissago. We took a shortcut descending a long set of stone stairs and reached town just in few minutes. A promenade on the lake gives another reason why Brissago & Brissago islands are just another piece of heaven. We took a table next to the lake watching the boats board and takeoff from the little harbour, while our Italian foody sprint started for the weekend. Italian cuisine is my favourite, I can literally eat pasta 🍝 every day! Only to break for a little Tiramisu dessert 🍮 . We didn’t account for the stairs upward, so we only realised how much we ate on the way back upwards.
The nature of Brissago Islands and Botanical Garden of Parkhotel Brenscino
In the morning, the two Brissago islands (Isole di Brissago) were visible from our balcony. The very mild climate of the region allowed many subtropical plants to flourish on the Brissago islands. The larger island – San Pancrazio – is well known for its botanical garden. While on the smaller Isola di Sant’apollinare – which is not open to the public – nature is let to go on its own course!
We planned to visit the islands but the weather had other plans for us as the morning carried a heavy cloudy sky! We were very pleased to know that Parkhotel Brenscino had its own Botanical garden spread over 38000 square meters of the hill. Martin, the gardener, was very kind to give us a personal tour around, naming on the way every single tree and even bamboo and their origins. The palm trees 🌴 give such a Mediterranean feel and many actually come from South America! It’s amazing how much care is taken to preserve such a gem. This one of the facilities that makes Parkhotel one of the top hotels in Brissago, if not one of the best hotels in Lake Maggiore.
The best Risotto at the Al Fresco of Parkhotel Brenscino
We had some more pleasant surprises as lunch time approached! We learned that the chef of the Parkhotel Brenscino restaurant “Al Fresco” is the two times winner of Locarno Risotto Festival award! From here on, each meal included a different risotto dish to sample all of its creative flavors. It was something out of this world! I never thought my love for pasta would be challenged. But who cares as long as it’s still within the Italian cuisine family!😋 The “Al Fresco” restaurant makes the hotel one of the best of hotels in Lake Maggiore.
The facilities & welcoming atmosphere of Parkhotel Brenscino
Usually when we choose an accommodation we mainly focus on its location and its proximity to key landmarks we want to visit. This time the moody weather made us realise the importance of indoors facilities. The lounge area and terrace were not only a saviour from rainy weather but so cosy and tastefully decorated. The Parkhotel Brenscino atmosphere was simply amazing. A brilliant mix of Swiss love for excellence with Italian warmth that makes you feel among friends. This atmosphere makes the hotel one of the distinctive hotels in Lake Maggiore and Brissago. Even when the sun re-showed its face we were too comfortable to move, sipping on a cappuccino and tasting the local gelato!
On our room balcony that night, summing up our trip as we usually do. We were watching the almost full moon creating a silver plate out of the lake between the mountains. Then the realisation came that these little gems we discovered actually make a valuable treasure worth sharing with our friends!
Arrivederci Brissago ❤️
Travelling under COVID restrictions
This year we feel less at ease when we travel due to Covid risks and the restrictions it implied. During the trip we felt very comfortable when we saw the strict safety measures of Parkhotel Brenscino. For example you don’t have a traditional menu at the restaurant. Instead you scan a QR code and check the menu on your mobile. The traditional buffet breakfast was turned into an individual big tray full of diverse delicious items 😋
Disclaimer: We were hosted by Parkhotel Brenscino during our visit to Brissago. However this blog represents our sincere view of the hotel and its facilities. We definitely recommend it to our friends and readers.
