"The Canton of Ticino - a balmy slice of Switzerland where pizza, polenta and pasta are served in sun-drenched piazzas; a canton whose southern toes are bathed in the warm waters of Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore," describes Caroline. "My husband and I chose to base ourselves in the town of Locarno which lies equidistant from Zurich to the north and Milan (Italy) to the south."

Only the northeast corner of Lake Maggiore is in Switzerland, but the frequent lake boats operated by an Italian company, enable visitors to cruise along the lake to hideaways such as Ascona which for years has been a drawing card for writers, painters and celebrities. Once a fishing village, the cobbled streets of the Old Town with its crafts centre and art galleries is a popular hangout for locals and visitors alike.

"On our first morning we visited one of the produce markets where local farmers were delighted to show us their fresh products - jars of pesto, packets of dried herbs, salsa, Brissago honey, vinegar and Nocino, a walnut liqueur," noted Caroline. "One vendor asked if I would like to try a sip of his Limoncina (lemon) drink. It looked innocent enough until the fiery drink hit the back of my throat. Apparently it is 54% proof."

From Lucarno, it's a 45-minute train journey to the city of Lugano. Its train station, as is the case of other lake towns, is situated well above the Old Town so that it cannot be touched by floodwaters. The innovative Swiss have thankfully provided a little funicular which whisks people down to the lake-level piazzas.

"Lugano is a key financial centre and its prices are correspondingly high. However, it was fun to window shop and look at all the chic fashions from Milan and poke our heads into the confisseries which display exquisitely crafted pastries and chocolate confections."

From Lugano, there are many side trips possible by train within the Canton of Ticino. Each destination offers its own charming treasures and historic landmarks.

"After swinging above the steep hillside, we dismounted in Curzutt which in the 1700's was home to 750 people. As we hiked past the old stone dwellings and through the chestnut groves, salamanders dashed across the sun-dappled paths. Soon we came to the highlight of our adventure, the picturesque San Barnard church," noted Caroline.

"The cool interior exuded a quiet charm and the walls were adorned with splendid 15thcentury frescoes. It seemed the perfect place to end our sojourn in this Swiss canton of many contrasts."

For more details about the Swiss Canton of Ticino, as well as other sunny spots and 'secret' destinations around the world, visit www.Travel-Wise.com - "Where Smart Travelers Come First!" New travel reviews by professional travel writers are featured each week at this leading international travel website.

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