Mr. Schälli, why did you choose to become a hotelier/hotel director?

In a hotel, the whole world comes together and no day is like another. The diverse facets of the hotelier profession and the special atmosphere of a resort fascinated me from an early age. Additionally, I was fortunate to start my career under excellent hotel directors whom I admired and who encouraged me in my career goals.

What are five characteristics that set your hotel apart from others?

The five-star boutique hotel «Villa Orselina» is a small hideaway above Locarno. This luxury hotel stands out in several ways:

With breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Maggiore and the city of Locarno.
• The 28 spacious rooms and suites mostly feature private balconies or terraces.
• The most beautiful summer terrace, a popular spot for culinary delights from breakfast to dinner.
• Various retreat options, whether in the hotel park or within the villa itself, inviting guests to indulge in «dolce far niente».
• Enjoy the renowned heated outdoor swimming pool, where you can relax while sipping refreshing drinks from the convenient poolside bar.

«Il Ristorante» in the «Villa Orselina» (Image: zVg)

What is the craziest experience you've had in your profession?

There have been many, and that's what makes our profession so fascinating. In the world of hospitality, surprises and extraordinary experiences are part of daily life—every day brings new and exciting challenges and unforgettable moments. Discretion and confidentiality are among our core values. Often, we work behind the scenes to ensure everything runs smoothly while keeping our guests' stories confidential.

How do you define hospitality and excellent guest service?

To my team and me, hospitality and excellent guest service mean caring for our guests with joy and from the heart. Our goal is to intuitively and proactively anticipate and fulfill our guests' wishes, aiming to turn a guest into a friend.

Which prominent guests have you had the pleasure of welcoming to your hotel?

In recent years at «Villa Orselina», especially during events like the «Moon & Stars» music festival and the Locarno Film Festival, we've had the honor of hosting internationally renowned personalities such as actors Hillary Swank, Meg Ryan, Laetitia Casta, and Matt Dillon, as well as musicians Eros Ramazzotti and Zucchero.

What does your hotel offer for a «perfect weekend» for two?

As simple as it may sound: arrive and unwind. Upon entering the villa, guests are greeted by the panorama from our bar terrace, where they immediately indulge in «dolce far niente» and enjoy an aperitif. For a «perfect weekend», we recommend starting with a wine tasting in our historic wine cellar in the evening, followed by dinner on our panoramic terrace. Leave plenty of time for breakfast—the view invites you to linger. During the day, we suggest exploring our hotel park with its large outdoor pool and the summer restaurant «La Pergola.» Strolling through Locarno's Piazza or along the lakeside in Ascona is also highly recommended.

Subject to availability: free upgrade to a suite (Image: zVg)

What are your plans for the property?

The boutique hotel «Villa Orselina» is perfect for a romantic stay for two. We will continue to tailor our offerings accordingly.

How is the gastronomy evolving at your hotel?

Our chef Riccardo Scarmacio and his team delight guests with fresh and light Mediterranean cuisine that stimulates and inspires the senses. We carefully select local products, and vegetarian and vegan options are integral parts of our menu.

What is your personal motto in leading a hotel?

I can only ask of my team what I personally exemplify.

What is your insider tip for the area?

Recently, I walked from Frasco to the waterfall in Sonogno and stopped at «Grotto Efra». The wild, romantic valleys and nature in Ticino continue to amaze me, even after 25 years.

What is the best advice you received from your mother or father?

My parents ran a bakery-patisserie with a small restaurant in Chur, where we also lived. During that time, I learned what it means to lead a business and a team, as well as the importance of pitching in whenever needed.

Daniel Schälli, originally from Graubünden, has been a fixture in Ticino and Lake Maggiore tourism for twenty years. Before taking over as director of «Villa Orselina» in 2017, he served as General Manager of «Eden Roc» in Ascona for five years. His earlier career includes positions at Hotel Giardino Ascona and Parkhotel Delta Ascona. Schälli attended the Hotel Management School Zurich and completed postgraduate studies in hotel management at HF Hotelmanagement Hotelleriesuisse.