Anyone stayed here at all? Sounds like a nice area, but is it all it's cracked up to be in the promotional material?
Joseph, I can't comment on whether the Locarno/Lugano area is "all it's cracked up to be", as everyone's perceptions and expectations are different.
However, I was in Locarno for several days and VERY MUCH enjoyed the city. It's a beautiful city and very interesting to explore and to just relax from the "rigors of travel".
I took the Cable Car to Cardada, which is on the mountain above Locarno, and had a few "cool ones" looking over the city in the sunshine and watching the Paragliders sail past the restaurant patio. It was a wonderfully tranquil place and one of the most memorable experiences of my trip.
I also had a look at the historic Maria del Sasso Church, which is across the street from the Cable Car station. It's beautiful! While there I noticed someone doing "loops" in what appeared to be a P-51 Mustang (possibly one of the residents of Locarno?).
I also enjoyed Varenna and Lago di Como. So many great places to visit!
Cheers!