About Locarno
Brush up on your Italian with lots of hand gestures before you land in the resort city of Locarno in southern Switzerland, because that is the language the locals chatter in. Sitting on the stunning banks of Lake Maggiore at the base of the Alps, Locarno is a beautiful city that was founded in the 12th Century. Tourists swarm to Locarno for its famed sunny weather (think 2,300 hours of pure sunshine annually), its amazing scenery and elegant laid-back vibe. Sitting amidst the many funky cafes, bars and restaurants coworking spaces have opened their doors to cater to the innovative locals, as much as the tourist hordes that just have to get some work done.
When in Locarno make sure that you take the funicular railway up to the forested top of Cimetta and Cardada, or for the energetic soul you can trek up there and stand on what feels like the top of the world gazing at the panoramic view over the city. You will have to climb the never-ending steps to the Santuario della Madonna del Sasso, an art filled pilgrimage site. You can put a foot in the past whilst meandering the Renaissance Old Town, stroll along the pretty waterfront promenade and gawk at the botanical gardens. There are boat trips to take you gliding over the lake or its possible to swim in the crystal clear waters of the rivers nearby. This is a city made for walking or slowing cycling around maybe heading to the Main Square Piazza Grande for some people watching and espresso sipping. Between the months of March to October it is hard to find a bed in this beautiful city, as these are the top months for the tourists to descend like locusts.
For all the beauty of this destination, unfortunately some of the tourists do need to check emails or do the odd bit of work, locals live their daily lives in creative bliss and wandering nomads with laptops tend to stay for a season. Coworking has appeared in this slice of heaven, which will give you a reason to linger longer.