Relais Castello di Morcote: A Unique Hotel in Lugano, Switzerland

PORTORO Interior founder Nathalie Küpfer Henares draws us into the mix of traditional architecture and modern amenities that characterizes this unique getaway in Southern Switzerland.

I grew up in Lugano, a charming town in the Italian-speaking province of Ticino in southern Switzerland, a place that veers more Italian thanks to its close proximity to the Swiss-Italian border. It is a place that is steeped in history, as it has been occupied since the Stone Age and archaeologists have discovered evidence of Etruscan and Roman settlements which became the foundation of our rich cultural heritage.

It is also a very picturesque place: the Lago di Lugano (It.: Lugano Lake) beautifully mirrors the sky and shimmers gold and scarlet at sunrise and sunset. The surrounding hills are lush with vegetation and the mountainous landscape of Ticino is dotted with unique structures including several medieval castles. In Lugano, however, there is but one medieval fortress which good taste and modern design have transformed into an exquisite hotel with magnificent views of the lake and the lush environment around it.

This is the Relais Castello di Morcote, a gorgeous estate that boasts of a winery and a boutique hotel that successfully integrates – and continues to integrate thanks to an ongoing renovation – the rustic beauty of its original architecture and interiors with the plush comforts of modern hospitality. Located upon a promontory, this unique leisure estate gives guests breathtaking views that they can enjoy together with a sophisticated yet welcoming mix of archaic surroundings and 21st century amenities.

A Boutique Hotel with a Distinctive Swiss-Italian Charm

Specifically located in the village of Vico Morcote, Castello di Morcote was originally a fortress that has loomed over the region since the Middle Ages. As stated previously, the estate is made up of two elements: the hotel and a winery housed within the castle itself, surrounded by lush, well-tended vineyards.  

The structure housing the hotel accommodations served as a convent in the 17th century; today, it serves as a gorgeous hideaway for those who want to enjoy their downtime taking in the natural beauty of the surrounding region and the opportunity to explore the different wonders it has to offer.

During our last stay here, we were given a room with a glorious view of the Lago di Lugano. Speaking as an interior consultant, I found the mix of old and new fascinating and very enjoyable: the walls are beautiful in their bareness as you can appreciate the texture of the cream-colored surfaces which goes well with the old-fashioned moldings over dark-stained doors; large fireplaces that are great for cozy romantic evenings; as well as plush furniture upholstered in soft, neutral-colored fabrics, and incredibly comfortable beds that are wonderful to fall asleep in after a long day of exploration and the enjoyment of the region’s fine produce (which I will talk about in a bit).

What gives the rooms of the Relais Castello di Morcote a modern feel is the use of Asiatic or Asian-inspired accents. There are baskets reminiscent of the woven chests of Southeast Asia which serve as centerpieces on rustic tables, while large pottery jars stands as objets d’arts on a sideboard.  On one wall, a delicate East Asian watercolor depicting mountains wreathed in mist is a visual focal point: completely foreign yet harmonious with the other elements in the space it occupies.

The uniquely harmonious juxtaposition of aesthetic elements is part of the ongoing renovation of the space and is made possible by both the management and the local artisans who take such pride in their work.

But it is in the gardens and outdoor spaces that you truly feel the freedom of mountain ranges surrounding the area. On some mornings, we would enjoy our breakfasts under a pergola in the beautifully maintained garden, serenaded by birdsong as the cool mountain breezes sharpened our appetites both for food and for the day’s activities. Sunset would also find us outdoors, enjoying an early evening aperitivo (It.: aperitif) to unwind after an active day and watch the stars come out.

There is no shortage of sights with the scenery: you are surrounded by mountains rising up to meet the heavens while beech and chestnut trees grow in profusion. There is a fine church steeple at one point, then a stunning view of the lake beyond on another point, and the natural greenery of Switzerland is all around you from quaint plants endemic to the region to flowers budding and blooming to delight the senses.

And speaking of one’s senses, this hotel has one particular attraction that will excite all five of yours: its own vineyard and winery.

Walk Through the Vineyard and Taste the Wine at Ternuta Castello di Morcote

Located at and around the estate’s castle-keep, Ternuta Castello di Morcote is where the estate’s owners, the Gianini family, have been growing grapes and making wine for four generations, though the area has long been known for viniculture and the excellence of its wines since the days of the Roman Empire.

The Gianinis believe in organic viniculture, which means that they cultivate their vines by hand and use no chemical fertilizers or pesticides in their fields – just the way their ancestors have always done. These terraced fields are where Merlot, Semillon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are grown to create exquisite wines that reflect the ecological diversity of the region: the cool forested hills and mountains of Switzerland and the sun-kissed earth of the Mediterranean where olive and lemon trees abound.

If you’re staying at the Relais, you can actually arrange for a tour of the vineyard followed by a leisurely wine sampling session where you get to enjoy the best of the Castello di Morcote cellars.

Incidentally, wine is not the only fine product produced on the estate, but it also offers excellent olive oil fit for the kitchens and tables of discerning gourmets.

Enjoy a Range of Activities at this Unique Swiss Hotel

For those who want to experience the beauty of the surrounding environs first-hand, there are a number of activities to choose from. You can hike through the 172-hectare expanse of the estate or enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace aboard an electric bike. Sportsmen and women will certainly jump at the chance to ride, and horseback riding is certainly offered at the nearby Alpe Vicania whether you’re the type to go for a lazy canter or a hard gallop.

For those looking to make a splash, you can take to the lago aboard a boat or paddle your way around in a kayak or on a SUP paddleboard. These are activities that are most pleasant in the summers, bracingly active but most refreshing.

For me, though, nothing beats a visit to the nearby village of Morcote where I can take in the historic sites. While a walk along the lago or the Scherrer Garden are most pleasant, heading to the Chiesa di Santa Maria del Sasso (It.: Church of Saint Mary of Sasso) is an experience that art lovers, history seekers, and those who love a magnificent view should not miss. Built between 1470 and 1478, the church is a prime example of the Romanesque architecture that characterized the period between the Renaissance and Baroque eras. Aside from the architecture, another focal point of interest is the ornate organ donated to the church by the painter Domenico Fossati and the stupendous views of the lake.

Relais Castello di Morcote is so much more than another hotel. With the wonderfully gracious staff, the excellence of its services and amenities, and the stunning environment it’s located in, it is an unforgettable experience: an immersive way to feel the Italian spirit of southern Switzerland.

 

Relais Castello di Morcote

Vico Morcote - Switzerland

+41 91 980 22 52

relais@castellodimorcote.ch

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