I'll be exploring the Ticino area with my mom for 5 days in late June. We plan on visiting Bellinzona one day and spending most of the remaining time hiking but will not have camping gear. Suggestions on how to break up the time, places to hike, and a budget friendly "home-base" would be most welcome! We chose Ticino for the weather and hiking opportunities, but are open to other suggestions in Switzerland/Italy. Thank you!
Thursday, I'm not sure if they're considered "budget friendly", but you could consider using either Locarno or Lugano for a "home base". Both are beautiful cities! You might consider taking the scenic Cento Valli Railway from Domodossola to Locarno. It's a great trip! Happy travels!
We have long wanted to hike in the Val Vernasca ( near Locarno), up to the the beautiful village of Sonogno. There are hiking trails into the mountains from the valley trail. You might ask the tourist office about this area.