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Villa Patria, a panoramic view of Brusino Arsizio on Lake Lugano, in Ticino, near Villa Patria—an oasis of peace on the shores of Lake Ceresio

Explore the area around Lake Lugano

Authentic experiences in the Mediterranean heart of Switzerland, just a stone's throw from Lake Como

Things to Do During Your Stay

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Massages

If you’re staying at Villa Patria, you can enjoy a massage right in
your room.

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Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Glide across the lake’s surface with stand-up paddleboarding, an activity that has become iconic in our country. Find balance and harmony through a fun and relaxing experience on the water.

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Biking

Set out to explore the area with exciting routes suitable for every season and skill level. From the plains to the surrounding mountains, enjoy unique, customized experiences by choosing from mountain bikes, e-bikes (by reservation), and traditional bicycles.

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Yoga

In our garden overlooking Lake Ceresio, we offer yoga classes surrounded by nature and tranquility. The birdsong and the sound of the water create a magical atmosphere where you can relax and rediscover your inner balance.

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Hiking

Explore the region’s wonders through exciting hikes, choosing from trails that run along the lake’s shores and paths leading to the area’s many scenic peaks. From the picturesque trails of Monte San Giorgio, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the majestic peaks of Monte Generoso, all the way to the scenic Tamaro-Lema traverse.

Relaxing Massages at Villa Patria, a B&B on Lake Lugano
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Massages

Massages are performed right in your room, by appointment. Choose from three treatments, ranging from 60 to 75 minutes. Reserved for villa guests.

A girl in a red swimsuit crosses the lake on her stand-up paddleboard
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Stand-Up Paddleboarding

The calm shores of Lake Lugano are perfect for a paddle, even for those who have never tried it before. Boards are available for guests to use.

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Bicycles

We rent mountain bikes, e-bikes, and traditional bicycles for exploring the area between the lake and the mountains. Upon request, a guide can accompany you along the local trails.

A girl does yoga with a view of Lake Lugano
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Yoga

Classes are held in the garden overlooking Lake Ceresio, with the lake in front and the woods behind.

Suggested Itineraries in the Mendrisiotto Region

Monte San Giorgio, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rises directly behind the villa. The other trails can be reached by boat or in just a few minutes by car, and all can be explored in a single day.

Forest Trail
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Monte San Giorgio

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is one of the most important fossil beds from the Middle Triassic period: the fossils date back 240 million years. The mountain can be explored on foot, and the Fossil Museum in Meride houses the findings.

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Between San Salvatore and Morcote

The trip begins with a boat ride from Brusino, followed by a ride up to San Salvatore on the funicular, and then a walk back toward Morcote, home to the Scherrer Botanical Garden. The return trip is again by boat.

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Toward the Botto Waterfall

From Melano, head up to the waterfall and continue on to Rovio. The Grotto Conza, along the way, is the perfect place to stop for lunch.

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On Mount Bisbino

The hike starts in Sagno and climbs along the Bisbino trail, on the ridge that marks the border with Italy.

In the surrounding area

You can cross the Mendrisiotto in half an hour, and it brings together a wide variety of attractions: a geological park, a medieval village, a rural valley that has remained unchanged, and lakeside villages.

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Mount San Giorgio

Discover a world from 240 million years ago through trails and exceptionally well-preserved fossils, evidence of one of the most important sites from the Middle Triassic.

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Monte Generoso and Fiore di pietra

One of Ticino's most spectacular scenic destinations, offering views of the Alps and Lake Lugano. The summit can be reached by train from Capolago.

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The Village of Morcote

One of the most charming villages in Ticino, overlooking Lake Lugano, with picturesque alleys, arcades, historic houses, and stunning panoramic views.

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Breggia Gorges Park

A fascinating geological park where nature and the Earth's history come together amid gorges, rocks, trails, and remnants of the past.

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Muggio Valley

An authentic, rural valley, ideal for walks through small villages, natural landscapes, and sites that bear witness to the farming traditions of the Mendrisiotto region.

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Tremona Archaeological Park

An ancient medieval village to explore through archaeological remains and an immersive augmented reality experience that transports visitors back in time.

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FoxTown Factory Stores

One of Ticino's leading outlet malls, located in Mendrisio, featuring numerous international fashion, accessory, and lifestyle brands—the perfect spot for a pleasant shopping break.

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Ascona and Locarno

Two of Ticino’s most popular destinations, easily accessible for a day spent strolling along the lakefront, exploring historic squares, enjoying cultural attractions, and soaking up the Mediterranean atmosphere that characterizes Lake Maggiore.

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Lake Como

A day exploring Lake Como and its city, with walks along the lakefront, elegant squares, historic alleyways, and picturesque views, all immersed in the unique atmosphere of one of Italy’s most charming lakes.

Wine Tastings

We organize wine tastings at the villa upon request. Within a few kilometers, there are several wineries worth visiting.

Events at Villa Patria

Villa Patria is much more than a B&B.

Yoga and brunch, pottery workshops, aperitifs. The schedule changes every month.