The valleys are scarcely populated, the mountain paths are panoramic and the cities burst of life and Italianità. This hiking trip leads through the southernmost part of Switzerland from the sublime castles of Bellinzone through lively Lugano and on to Mendrisio. The views on the countless lakes in this region will guide your way to Ticino’s highlights.

Tour character: Hiking with a view! The distances are rather short but you should expect some steep up- and downhills. Surefootedness is needed for the hikes on the crests.

Valid: April 29 – October 15, 2023

Day 1: Arrival in Bellinzona | Bellizona – Isone
Luggage drop off in Bellinzona. 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.
Details: approx. 4 h, 10 kilometers, ↑ 840 m ↓ 315 m

Day 2: Isone – Tesserete
First through the swamp at Gola di Lago and then further through ferns in a sparse birch forest towards Bigorio. Santa Maria Franciscan monastery lies like an eagle’s nest above Tesserete.
Details: approx. 3.5 h, 11 kilometers, ↑ 525 m ↓ 740 m

Day 3: Tesserete – Lugano
In the morning by bus to Cimadera. The tour leads past the rock formation Denti della Vecchia over Monte Boglia, through beech forests and high plateaux to Monte Brè, a vantage platform high above Lugano. The funicular takes you down to the city centre.
Details: approx. 5.5 h, 13 kilometers, ↑ 1'045 m ↓ 1'265 m

Day 4: Lugano – Serpiano
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.
Details: approx. 4.5h, 12.5 kilometers, ↑ 855 m ↓ 855 m

Day 5: Serpiano – Meride| Departure
The Monte San Giorgio, also known as the «Fossil Mountain», is UNESCO World Natural Heritage. Dinosaur fossils dating back 240 million years can be marvelled at in a small museum in Meride. After arrival in Mendrisio individual departure.
Details: approx. 4 h, 13 kilometers, ↑ 615 m ↓ 570 m

No minimum number of participants

• 4 nights including breakfast at 3* hotels and local inns
  
• Daily Luggage transfer
• Cost for luggage pick-up at the station
• Subsidy for arrival by train
• Ticino Ticket including numerous services and discounts
• Entrance to the castles of Bellinzona
• Entrance to the museum Monte San Giorgio
• Carefully elaborated route
• Travel documents
  
• GPS data available
• Service Hotline

Not included

• Rides with boats and cable cars (approx CHF 45 per person)
• Tourist tax

Check availability and make a reservation: