Relais Castello di Morcote

My husband and I recently spent two nights at Relais Castello di Morcote. We were on our way to Italy, but I had been wanting to visit the Lugano area. It's a lucky thing I noticed this hotel advertised. It's just the kind of place we enjoy. This hotel used to be a convent, and it's located in a unique mountainside location that overlooks Lake Lugano. Guests are allowed to walk through the vineyards owned by the hotel's winery. There are castle ruins there, and if you're there on a sunny day, you are rewarded with beautiful views of the lake. You can also visit the ruins. We enjoyed our room, which had its own yard, and was handicapped accessible. We didn't need the handicapped facilities, but it's good to know they exist. There's an honesty bar, where guests can try the wines and enjoy coffee, tea, and a pastry. We also liked the restaurant, where we had dinner and were gifted a bottle of the hotel's rose in celebration of International Women's Day. We ended up buying six bottles to take home with us. I wish we'd bought more. Breakfast was generous, and the lady serving it was so friendly and kind. She made perfect cappuccinos. My one complaint was that at dinner, I found the chair I was sitting on a bit uncomfortable. However, the restaurant has benches that were better. I used those at breakfast. We also enjoyed a generous cold cut platter on Sunday night, as the restaurant wasn't open. The parking situation was confusing at first, as there is a private parking area that is closer to the hotel than the hotel's parking (by the church) is. But once we got that sorted out, it was fine. Our visit happened to be at the tail end of the off season, so we didn't get to try all of the hotel's features. But if we're ever back in the Lugano/Vico Morcote area, I would definitely want to stay again. Next time, I'll be sure to get a room with a lake view!

Truly a stunning experience with lovely lake views! Although our room was a little small, the comfort level was high. The breakfast and the service was warm and memorable. This is a gem of a property and it's is a great place to explore the rest of the lakes in the region.

History and design in perfect combination. A hushed atmosphere envelops this place on a steep hill above tiny Vico Morcote. The lake is a 20 minute walk downhill on stairs and cobblestone, getting back up again is the real challenge. Restaurant Sorgente offers fine dining in a casual atmosphere. Don’t miss restaurant Vicania set in a meadow further up the hill and offering wonderful sunset views, transport can be booked. Rent electric bikes from the friendly staff or take the ferry to Lugano for some city vibes.

This is a nice, fun place to see in the northeastern part of Switzerland. It's a pretty drive from where we stayed in Ticino and not too far - under an hour. We walked around the lakeside community and climbed a small hill to explore the chapel and grounds. Very pretty, scenic, and cultural. Definitely something you'll want to experience!!!!