13.10.2025 - Autumn between chestnut aroma, wine cellars and vibrant landscapes

TICINO.CH/MEDIA
Autumn in Ticino: Between Chestnut Aroma,
Wine Cellars, and Vibrant Landscapes
Press release – October 13th, 2025
Ticino Turismo Via C. Ghiringhelli 7 T +41 91 825 70 56
Casella postale 1441 info@ticino.ch
CH–6501 Bellinzona ticino.ch

When the forests of Ticino turn into warm shades of red and gold, in the south of Switzerland a season starts,
that seems made for bon vivants and explorers alike. Autumn in Ticino is more than just a season, it’s a
kaleidoscope of tradition, gastronomy, and nature. Here, authentic stories unfold: tales of markets that connect
generations, winemakers who live their craft with passion, and ancient customs that continue to bring people
together today.
Markets: The Beating Heart of the Towns
A Saturday stroll through the alleys of Bellinzona is enough to understand why its market is among the most beautiful
in Switzerland. Between the historic walls of the UNESCO-listed old town, stalls overflow with aromatic alpine
cheese, air-dried salami, and freshly harvested grapes. Vendors present their products, locals chat over espresso,
and visitors soak in an atmosphere that feels both authentic and Mediterranean. The same unmistakable scent of
cheese, chestnuts, and young wine fills the air during Ascona’s Autumn Market October 19 th and 20 th , 2025. Producers
from nearby valleys proudly showcase their specialties while music fills the piazza and children bite into still-warm
roasted chestnuts.
Bellinzona Market
Autumn Festival Ascona
Culinary Journeys Throughout the Region
A few kilometres further south, in the gentle hills of the Mendrisiotto and Basso Ceresio, wine cellars and restaurants
open their doors in October and November. During Wine & Dine in Cantina, guests can enjoy an evening among old
wine barrels on October 24 th , on two Fridays in November, or on December 06 th ,2025. Local Merlot and dishes such
as a variety of risotto creations take centre stage.
Even greater diversity awaits during the Rassegna Gastronomica Mendrisiotto and Basso Ceresio from October 1 st
through to November 2 nd , 2025. Over 30 venues participate in this renowned gastronomic festival, showcasing how
creatively regional ingredients can be used, from freshly caught lake fish to modern interpretations of classic
polenta.
Wine & Dine at the wine cellar
Gastronomic Festival Calender
The Chestnut: Ticino’s Symbolic Tree and Fruit of Autumn
Few plants shape the Ticino autumn as much as the chestnut. Its trees colour the hillsides, and its fruit lies at the
heart of many local festivities. During the Castagnata on Lake Maggiore on October 26 th , 2025, families and friends
gather along the shores of Ascona. Smoke rises from roasting drums, laughter fills the air, and a glass of sweet vin
brûlé completes the scene. In the remote Muggio Valley, another tradition endures: the Carica and scarica of the so
called grà. At the end of October, visitors can watch how chestnuts are stacked and dried in historic stone huts called
“grà”, a ritual that offers insight into the rural life of past centuries and remains a vital part of Ticino’s living heritage
today.
Chestnut Festivals at Lake Maggiore
Loading and unloading the «Grà»
Monte Tamaro Sets New Standards: Modern, Accessible, and Open Year-Round
Since mid-September, Monte Tamaro welcomes visitors with new 8-person cable cars; modern, comfortable, and
fully accessible. The new system is faster, quieter, and more eco-friendly, ideal for guests with mountain bikes,
strollers, or wheelchairs. A panoramic terrace is also being built on the roof of the upper station, offering
breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Another exciting development: starting this winter, Monte Tamaro
will be open year-round for the first time. During winter weekends and school holidays, both the cable car and the
Ristorante Alpe Foppa will remain in operation. The newly renovated Santa Maria degli Angeli church, designed by
Mario Botta, will also be accessible throughout the year.
Ticino Turismo Via C. Ghiringhelli 7 T +41 91 825 70 56
Casella postale 1441 info@ticino.ch
CH–6501 Bellinzona ticino.ch

Monte Tamaro
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TICINO TURISMO
Catharina Berni
Head of Communication
Tel: +41 91 821 53 24
catharina.berni@ticino.ch
Ticino Turismo Via C. Ghiringhelli 7 T +41 91 825 70 56
Casella postale 1441 info@ticino.ch
CH–6501 Bellinzona ticino.ch