Bellinzona, Monte Bré & Lake Lugano in Italian Switzerland

Arrival in Bellinzona

The skyline of the capital of Ticino, comprising three of the best-preserved medieval castles in Switzerland, which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bellinzona is strategically positioned where the valley narrows at the southern entrance to the Alpine passes and is probably Switzerland's most Italianate town.

Bellinzona–Isone approx. 10 kms 4hrs | +840 m -315 m

Steep climb to the Cima di Dentro with views of Piano di Magadino and Lago Maggiore. Take one last look at the castles of Bellinzona before you walk down towards Isone.

Isone–Tesserete approx. 11kms 3.5hrs | +525m -740m

First through the swamp at Gola di Lago and then further on through a sea of ferns in a sparse birch forest towards Bigorio. Santa Maria Franciscan monastery like an eagle’s nest above Tesserete.

Tesserete–Cimadera–Lugano approx. 13kms 5.5hrs | +1,045m -1,265m

In the morning transfer to Cimadera. The tour leads past the Denti della Vecchia rock formations over the Monte Boglia, through beech forests and high plateaux to Monte Bré, a vantage platform high above Lugano. The furnicular railway takes you down to the city centre.

Lugano–Monte San Salvatore–Morcote–Serpiano approx. 12.5kms 4.5hrs | +855m -855m

The hike from Monte San Salvatore to Vico Morcote is a classic for the whole family. Always slightly downhill, woodlands alternating with well-kept villages, pretty grotti and scenic views. From Morcote you continue by ship and cable car to Serpiano.

Serpiano–Meride–Mendrisio approx. 13kms 4hrs | +615m -570m

The Monte San Giorgio, also known as the «Fossil Mountain», is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage, tackled after a short boat trip. Dinosaur fossils dating back 230-240 million years can be marvelled at in a small museum in Meride.

Departure or extra day.