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Intro

The superb panoramic mountain of San Salvatore is one of Lugano’s landmarks. The hike from the summit through chestnut forests along the banks of the lake to Morcote is a true classic.

Description

The 360-degree panoramic views from the panoramic terrace are hard to beat, extending from Lake Lugano over the Po Valley to the peaks of the Swiss and Savoy Alps. Getting to the top of San Salvatore is not a problem as the funicular railway climbs to 909 metres above sea level from Lugano-Paradiso in just 12 minutes.

The descent to Morcote starts off steeply, but from Ciona the trail follows easy paths with no major ascents or descents, taking you through the forest to the artists’ village of Carona, which was a source of inspiration for Hermann Hesse, amongst others. Here, the botanical garden Parco San Grato with its collection of rhododendrens, azaleas and conifers is well worth a visit.

An easy forest trail leads from Carona past the 17th century pilgrimage church Madonna d’Ongero. After an hour, you will reach Alpe Vicania, where the “grotto” restaurant holds a magical attraction for the locals in summer. Running idyllically through a chestnut forest and down hundreds of steps, the trail finally arrives back at the lake in picturesque Morcote, where a boat trip back to Lugano makes for a relaxed ending to this wonderful Ticino hike.

Getting here: Funicular railway from Lugano-Paradiso to San Salvatore (whole year) Getting back: Bus or boat from Morcote

An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted

Technical information

Show Technical information content
Destination
Morcote
Elevation level - Direction
Before alps, One way
Altitude (meter above sea level)
886 m
Ascent
232 m
Descent
846 m
Distance
10 km
Duration
3 h
Technical requirements
Medium
Physical requirements
Medium
Season
March - November
Theme
With panoramic view, To a mountain peak
Category
Active, Nature

Map

SwitzerlandMobility Map: This element is not accessible for disabled people.

Contact

Ente Turistico del Luganese
Via Giovanni Nizzola 2
6901  Lugano
Switzerland

Phone  +41 (0)58 220 65 00
info@luganoregion.com
luganoregion.com
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Quick Facts

Route number

Distance

10 km

Duration

3 h

Ascent

232 m

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