Best Walks Around Italy's Lake Lugano
Garden Paths, Lakeside Strolls and High Mountain Hikes
Oct 24, 2009
On the western side of Italy's Lakes Region, which spreads over into Switzerland, the lakes are framed by mountains that provide not only stunning views down onto the lakes, but a backdrop for views from paths along the water's edge.
Monte Bre
The tree-covered mountain that frames the north side of Lugano's Lungolago – the lakeside promenade – is 300-foot Monte Bre. To ascend it easily, take #12 bus from the waterfront to the Cassarate/Monte Bre stop and take the funicular. In addition to lake views, at the top are an art trail and a village of traditional houses. The funicular operates daily from mid-June through September.
Monte San Salvadore
From the opposite end of the lake shore in Lugano, within walking distance of the Paradiso boat landing and rail station, one of Europe's oldest funiculars ascends 3000-foot Monte San Salvadore. Views extend in every direction, and include both arms of Lake Lugano, northern Lake Maggiore and a panorama of Swiss and Italian Alps. At the top visit the free Museo San Salvador, with minerals, fossils and ecclesiastical art (Open Wed--Sun 10am--noon & 1-3pm) before following the footpath to the settlement of Ciona, atop a neighboring mountain. The funicular operates March through November, every 30 min throughout the day.
Gandria to Lugano
Clinging to the north shore of Lake Lugano, the little town of Gandria is a cluster of pastel-colored buildings, many of which overhang the water. It is prettiest approached by boat, from which it is possible to walk back to Lugano along a path the follows the shore through gardens and tiny villages. About half way the path crosses between a little inn and it terrace restaurant, a good place to stop for a refreshing drink overlooking the lake.
Lugano's Gardens
Explore the beautiful gardens in Lugano, beginning in the gardens behind Villa Ciani. Old trees form a stately backdrop here for changing flower-bed displays. Stroll among the olive trees, cypresses and palms that fill the terraced Parco degli Olivi, especially beautifiul in the spring, when the scene is painted with bright jonquils and tulips.
Monte Lemo
Hike the high ridge north of Lake Lugano, from Monte Lemo to Monte Tamaro. Cable cars lead to the top of each mountain, connecting to bus lines at the bases, so hikers can traverse the spectacular pre-alpine ridge on a five-hour hike without making the steep ascent and descent.
Caprino to Campione
Take the boat to the interesting museum of smuggling poised over the lake in Caprino, then walk along the shore to the Italian enclave of Campione d’Italia, returning to Lugano by boat. The path along the steep shore provides spectacular views of Lugano and the mountains behind it. The busy town of Campione is in Italy, but completely surrounded by Switzerland.
The Chestnut Trail
A bus takes walkers to the beginning of the Chestnut Trail, in the Malcatone valleys, just west of Lugano. This wide, easy path leads along chestnut-covered hillsides and through quiet country villages. Choose fall for this walk, when fallen chestnut burrs cover the path and the tang of autumn is in the air – or early spring, when the chestnut trees are covered in blossoms.
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