Solo traveler, have 6 days, will not have a car. Suggestions for hotels? Pros\Cons of either place? Thanks

I know HOTEL DELL'ANGELO in Locarno, situated on the main square (piazza grande), suitable as a starting point for shopping, trips (in is within walking distance from the local train station and near the pier for the ferries on the Lake Maggiore). Have a look at their site www.hotel-dell-angelo.ch for info and prices. I have been several times to Locarno (for shopping only though, so I have passed many times in front of this hotel and I find it neat and clean). I dont know Ascona I am afraid...

Hi. Ascona is lovely, but you'll be limited to bus and boat connections. Locarno is most convenient for day-tripping by rail, bus, or boat. If Grasshopper is around, she'll recommend the hotel she particularly liked. Of course, you know I love Hotel Panorama in Gerra-Gambarogno, which is reachable by bus, boat, or train; however the connections are not as plentiful as in Locarno. Gerra's plus is peace and quiet. J.

It is practically impossible to recommend a hotel w/o knowing the price range you prefer.<BR><BR>Locarno is a little town, Ascona a village. Locarno is more livelier with locals, Ascona knows more tourists than locals. However, I found Locarno to be a little cheaper.<BR><BR>I would not mind the additional change for the bus at Locarno's railway station for day trips. The buses are running frequently till almost midnight.<BR><BR>One recommendation, though, for a four star in Locarno: Hotel Belvedere, incredible views, close to everything, but quiet. Book a room to the south (lake view) in the main house (an old villa), not in the modern apartments next to the villa.