It was once again time to move on to our next destination. After breakfast at the hotel, we took the train to Interlaken where we would pick up a rental car for the next few days. The plan was to drive to Orselina, near Locarno, in the Italian speaking region of Ticino.

Our route would take us across three different mountain passes, which we had hoped would provide for a scenic and leisurely drive.

Unfortunately, the weather today is mostly cloudy and with some heavy rain at times. During one of the rare sunny breaks, we stopped for a picnic lunch at the side of the road.

Here are some more photos from along the drive, where we have a few relatively clear weather breaks.

The drive took us through what appeared to be some stunning scenery, but it’s unfortunate that it poured rain throughout most of it.

We arrived in Locarno, and then wound our way up a series of switchbacks to the town of Orselina, and arrived at our hotel, Villa Orselina. After a welcome glass of Champagne on the terrace by reception, we were shown to our suite.

We had a lot more space than I was expecting, with a full kitchen and dining room, in addition to a large living room, bedroom, large washroom and a separate powder room off the main entrance.

The large balcony has a lovely view over Locarno, Ascona and Lake Maggiore.

While our hotel may seem a bit isolated being way up on the hill, just down the street is a funicular station that takes us right down into Locarno by the waterfront in about 5 minutes, so it’s actually very convenient. After getting settled in our room, we headed out in search of dinner.