Parco Scherrer

Parco Scherrer (Scherrer Park) is a botanical and sculpture garden on the steep shore of Lake Lugano in Morcote, in the Swiss canton of Ticino. Terraces tumble down toward the water, mixing subtropical vegetation with statues, fountains and buildings inspired by faraway cultures.

Who created the park?

The garden grew out of the passion of Arturo Scherrer, a textile merchant from St. Gallen who loved travel, art and culture. Around 1930 the family bought a house in Morcote with roughly a hectare of land. Over time the slopes and terraces became a richly designed private garden filled with souvenirs from his journeys, replicas of historic structures and sculpture. In 1965 his widow, Amalia, donated the estate to the municipality of Morcote and asked that it be opened to the public. The park is kept close to the way the family originally imagined it.

Which plants grow here?

The mild climate on the southern side of the Alps allows species that are rare elsewhere in Switzerland. You will find palms, camellias, wisterias, oleanders, cedars, cypresses, camphor trees, eucalyptus, magnolias, azaleas, orange and lemon trees, and bamboo. Many of the plants are fragrant, so a walk feels different with every season.

What else is there besides plants?

The garden blends two styles: Mediterranean and Asian. In a shaded dell leading to the Belvedere terrace stand statues of Venus, Hercules, Juno and Jupiter. In the area known as the Indian Garden, a building is modelled on the Renaissance Palazzo Salo in Brugine near Padua; its interior recalls a women's quarters in Mughal style. Close by are sculptures of four stone elephants, three cobras, and a model of the sacred cow of Mysore. Together they create the feeling of a journey from Morocco through India to Japan.

Is the park recognised?

Yes. Parco Scherrer belongs to the Grandi Giardini Italiani network and to the Gardens of Switzerland network, both of which group notable gardens. It is also one of the main attractions of Morcote, regarded as one of the prettiest villages on Lake Lugano.

When should you visit?

The park is seasonal, open from mid-March to early November. Spring is the best time for blooming camellias, azaleas and magnolias, but early autumn has its own charm, with softer light and very clear views over the lake. Plan at least an hour: the paths wind and the terraces sit at different heights, so there are plenty of steps. Comfortable shoes matter more here than a camera.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Parco Scherrer? In Morcote, at the southern tip of the peninsula on Lake Lugano, in Ticino.

Is it a private garden? No. Since 1965 it has belonged to the municipality of Morcote and is open to visitors.

Is it a museum? Swiss museum directories list it as a museum site, but in practice it is an open-air garden with sculptures and buildings.

What can I see from the terraces? Views over the lake and surrounding hills, and between the trees the rooftops and narrow lanes of Morcote.

Who is the park for? Lovers of botany, photography, garden architecture and quiet walks, as well as families who enjoy discovering hidden corners.