This member of Design Hotels takes on the appearance of an exclusive Italian villa. A huge koi filled pond joins the main buildings with a bridge and dining terrace running over it. Guests can wander the perfectly manicured Tuscan style grounds, with bubbling fountains, immaculate topiaries and semi-tropical flora and fauna. Giardino Ascona’s interiors take on a modern, feminine feel and both the service and ambience throughout, endorses its five-star rating. There are two restaurants, Hide & Seek and Ecco Ascona, the former explores Ayurvedic influences, while the latter holds two Michelin stars. Giardino also caters well for kids — there’s a playground and the spa even has a children’s menu for those aged six to 12.