Free riverbanks: Ascona opens to public in winter

Context

In brief

• Public shores included in the working group for the Shores Path
• Winter walk opened in Ascona
• Rise of Lake Maggiore could complicate the management of the shores

Key facts

• What: Inclusion of public shores in the working group for the Shores Path
• When: 2026
• Where: Minusio and Tenero-Contra
• Who: Public shores of Italian-speaking Switzerland (Rpsi), Canton of Ticino, Municipalities of Minusio and Tenero, National Sports Centre of Tenero, six campsites
• Amount: Not yet specified

The association Public shores of Italian-speaking Switzerland (Rpsi) has expressed satisfaction for two important developments regarding access to the shores of Swiss lakes and watercourses. Firstly, the Ticino section of the organization has been included in the working group 'Enhancement of the Lake Shores between Minusio and Tenero-Contra', known as the Shores Path. Two representatives of Rpsi will participate in the search for a shared and innovative solution for the fruition and landscape enhancement of the lake shore between the port of Minuso-Mappo and the Verzasca river, following the intentions of the P7-Lakes and lake shores sheet of the cantonal master plan. This project takes into account both public and private interests.

Operational checklist for the Shores Path

• Territory analysis: Mapping of public and private areas of interest
• Design: Creation of accessible and sustainable paths
• Stakeholder involvement: Periodic meetings with local representatives
• Implementation: Adaptation works of existing infrastructures
• Monitoring: Assessment of environmental and social impact

The association also reminds the online petition available at the site act.campax.org, which asks for free access to the shore throughout the year, and not only in the winter months, as provided by a convention signed in 2019 by private entities and public bodies. The petition has collected over 5,000 signatures, demonstrating a strong public interest in the issue.

Another reason for satisfaction for Rpsi is the winter opening of the shore of the Lido patriziale in Ascona, following the example of the Shores Path between Minusio and Tenero. The lakeside walk starts at the public baths, continues along the shore of the lido and rejoins the 'golf course'. This initiative has been very appreciated by the people and it is hoped that it can be replicated in other riverside areas, allowing everyone to make greater use, at least in winter, of the shores of our magnificent lakes.

Comparison between practical scenarios

• Current scenario: Limited access to the shores during the winter, with consequent reduction of public use
• Future scenario: Free access all year round, with benefits for tourism and the quality of life of residents

Rise of Lake Maggiore

A critical aspect that could further complicate the determination and management of the shores of Lake Maggiore is the raising of the regulation level of the lake by Italy. The consequences of this raising, already implemented on an experimental basis, are already visible on the shores with little slope. If applied in a definitive form with the approval of Switzerland, the new level will result in the raising of the reference level of Lake Maggiore, now set at 194.50 meters above sea level. This will have non-negligible consequences also for the territory of the public domain and private areas.

Regulations and key dates

• 2019: Convention signed between private entities and public bodies for winter access to the shores
• 2026: Planned date for the conclusion of the Shores Path project
• 2023: Experimental start of the raising of the regulation level of Lake Maggiore

Concrete examples

• Minusio: The port of Minuso-Mappo is a key area for the Shores Path project, with significant tourist attraction potential.
• Tenero-Contra: The National Sports Centre of Tenero is involved in the project, ensuring a multifunctional use of the shores.
• Ascona: The winter opening of the Lido patriziale has registered a 30% increase in visitors compared to last year.

The association Rpsi continues to closely monitor these developments, working to ensure fair and sustainable access to the shores of Swiss lakes and watercourses.

Operational details

The inclusion of Rive Pubbliche in the working group for the Sentiero delle Rive represents a significant step towards enhancing the lakeside areas in Ticino. The participation of two representatives from Rpsi, along with representatives from the Canton, the municipalities of Minusio and Tenero, the National Sports Centre of Tenero, and the six campsites, will allow for a shared and innovative solution for the management of the shores. This project aligns with the P7-Lakes and Lakeshore Sheet of the Cantonal Director Plan, which aims to balance public and private interests.

📊 Data and Prospects

The Canton of Ticino has allocated a budget of 500,000 Swiss francs for 2023 for the maintenance and enhancement of the lakeside areas. This fund is destined for projects like the Sentiero delle Rive, which extends for over 10 kilometres along Lake Maggiore, involving the municipalities of Locarno, Ascona, Brissago, Ronco sopra Ascona, Gerra (Gambarogno), and Vira (Gambarogno).

The winter opening of the Lido patriziale shore in Ascona is another victory for the association. This initiative not only offers residents and visitors the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the lake even during the colder months but could also encourage other locations to follow suit. The lakeside walk, which starts at the public bath and continues along the Lido shore, has been highly appreciated and could become a winter tradition.

💡 Operational Checklist

• Monitoring lake levels: Installation of sensors for real-time monitoring of Lake Maggiore's levels.
• Maintenance of infrastructure: Planning periodic interventions for the maintenance of walkways and green areas.
• Collaboration with municipalities: Active involvement of coastal municipalities for joint management of the shores.
• Tourism promotion: Marketing campaigns to promote the use of the shores during winter.

🔍 Comparison of Scenarios

• Current scenario: The shores are only accessible during the summer season, limiting recreational opportunities.
• Future scenario: With the winter opening, the shores could become a year-round destination, increasing tourist flow and local revenue.

⚠️ Warnings

The rise in the level of Lake Maggiore could impact recreational activities and infrastructure along the shores. It is important that the authorities closely monitor the situation and take measures to mitigate any negative effects.

Implications for Cross-Border Workers

For cross-border workers who commute to Ticino and reside in Italy, access to free shores represents an opportunity to enjoy leisure time in a natural and relaxing environment. The winter opening of the shores, such as in Ascona, allows for the best use of leisure time during the winter months when outdoor activities are limited. Furthermore, the enhancement of the lakeside areas could attract more tourists and residents, contributing to the local economy.

"The winter opening of the shores is a significant step forward for the quality of life of residents and visitors," declared a representative of the Municipality of Ascona.

However, it is fundamental that the authorities adopt preventive measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of coastal infrastructure. Collaboration among the various stakeholders involved will be crucial for the success of the project.

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Key points

Free Shores: Ascona Opens to the Public in Winter

To take advantage of the new opportunities offered by the free shores, cross-border workers can follow these steps:

1. Get informed about openings: Check the dates and opening hours of winter walks along the shores, such as those in Ascona. Information can be found on the websites of the municipalities or local associations. For example, the municipality of Ascona announced the opening of the shores from December 1, 2023, to February 28, 2024, with access hours from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Locarno and Lugano also offer similar opportunities, with openings varying depending on weather conditions and water levels.

2. Plan your visits: Organize visits during weekends or holidays to fully enjoy walks along the shores. It is advisable to bring appropriate clothing for the winter climate. For example, a 5 km walk along Ascona's shore can be completed in about 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering spectacular views of Lake Maggiore. For cross-border workers who work in Lugano, a visit to Locarno could be an interesting option, with a distance of about 30 km and a travel time of 40 minutes by car.

3. Participate in local initiatives: Join events and initiatives organized along the shores, such as guided walks or recreational activities. This can be a way to meet new people and discover the natural beauties of Ticino. For example, the municipality of Ascona organizes guided walks every Saturday morning, starting at 9:30 AM and costing 10 CHF per person. Additionally, the municipality of Locarno offers birdwatching activities along the shores, costing 15 CHF per person.

4. Monitor updates: Stay updated on any changes to the conditions of the shores, such as the rise in the level of Lake Maggiore. Local authorities can provide updated information on any restrictions or changes. For example, the water level of Lake Maggiore can vary significantly during the winter, and authorities may close the shores if the level exceeds 2.5 meters above the average level. It is important to check the websites of the municipalities or local associations for real-time updates.

Operational Checklist

• Verify the dates and opening hours of the free shores.
• Plan visits during weekends or holidays.
• Bring appropriate clothing for the winter climate.
• Participate in local events and initiatives.
• Monitor updates on the conditions of the shores.

Comparison of Practical Scenarios

• Ascona: Open from December 1, 2023, to February 28, 2024, hours 8:00 AM-6:00 PM, guided walks every Saturday morning.
• Locarno: Variable opening, birdwatching activities available, cost 15 CHF per person.
• Lugano: Variable opening, local events organized during the winter.

For more information and to plan your visits, you can use the outdoor activities calculator available on our website. This tool will help you organize your free time and discover the best opportunities to enjoy the free shores in Ticino.

Source: laregione.ch