Location: Ticino

Lugano is the largest city in Ticino and lies with Mediterranean flair on the lake of the same name between the viewpoint mountains Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore. Palm-lined promenades, a lively old town and funiculars up the local mountains shape the scene. The lake reaches as far as Italy.HighlightsMediterranean lakeside promenade and old townLocal mountains Monte Brè and San Salvatore…

At 1,704 m, Monte Generoso offers an all-round view over the Ticino lakes, the Po Plain and the arc of the Alps. On the summit stands the Fiore di Pietra viewing building designed by star architect Mario Botta. A historic cog railway leads up from Capolago on Lake Lugano.HighlightsAll-round view over lakes, the Po Plain and the AlpsFiore di Pietra by Mario…

The Centovalli, the valley of a hundred valleys, links Locarno with Domodossola in Italy. The Centovalli Railway, a narrow-gauge line, runs through the wild gorge landscape over numerous bridges and through tunnels, past chestnut forests and waterfalls, especially impressive in autumn.HighlightsCentovalli Railway over bridges and through tunnelsWild gorges and chestnut forestsCross-border to DomodossolaAutumn colours especially beautifulGood to…

The Maggia valley is the largest valley in Ticino and known for its crystal-clear, emerald-green river water, stone mountain villages and waterfalls. Its landmark is the Foroglio waterfall. Natural pools along the Maggia invite swimming in summer, though the water stays cold.HighlightsEmerald-green, clear river waterForoglio waterfallStone mountain villages and rusticiNatural bathing spots along the MaggiaGood to…

Bellinzona, the capital of Ticino, guards the important north–south link over the alpine passes with three medieval castles. Castelgrande, Montebello and Sasso Corbaro, together with the defensive wall that once reached across the valley, form a unique fortification ensemble that has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. The complex is regarded as the most important example of medieval defensive architecture in the Alpine region.HighlightsThree castles:…

Lake Maggiore stretches from Ticino into Italy; its Swiss northern end around Locarno and Ascona is known for its mild, almost Mediterranean climate, palm-lined promenades and camellia blossom. At the lake’s surface, Locarno holds the lowest point in Switzerland at around 197 m. Above the town towers the pilgrimage church Madonna del Sasso, reachable by…