Another month, another trip.. This is becoming a bit of a thing for me..
Lugano was first on the hit list. I flew into Zurich, and caught the SBB cross country train into Lugano. The train ride was amazing, going past Lake Zurich, Zug..
The views were amazing. The train was worth the journey alone!
Trains in Switzerland are a doddle, SBB run a superb service which is rarely late or delayed!
I arrived into Lugano Station to this view. I’ve wanted to visit here for a long time, but never really knew how to fit it into a trip. The Swiss / Italian tour was the perfect blend. As usual I was set up for an Air Bnb, it was a little out of the main centre but it was amazing value for a country which is expensive, well.. most assume it is!
I don’t goto a city without seeing a stadium, that has become a thing for me too. This may not have been a huge Wembley like stadium, but what a backdrop. Nestled between mountains. What a place to play football..
I had four goals for my trip to Lugano; 1) Hike Monte Bre. 2) Hike Monte San Salvatore. 3) Swim in Lake Lugano. 4) Eat Immense Pizza.. Yeah that’s a goal.
My hike up Monte Bre started with the use of the Funicular. I’d been travelling all day and with limited time to hike I opted to cut some time off. You can find the Funicular on Via Pico.
At the summit of Monte Bre you’re met with a beautiful view over the Lake shame about the cafe umbrellas below! I walked a couple of trails and headed down to Ristorante Vetta Monte Bre…
Ristorante Vetta Monte Bre is probably the most picturesc restaurant I’ve ever seen on my travels so far.. Perfect spot for an Aperol, beautiful views of Lake Lugano..
I started my long hike back down the mountain, stopped off at a couple of view points. Probably one of the most peaceful places I’ve been. I didn’t see anyone during my descent..
I walked approx 2 hours back from the summit to my Air Bnb, and I was beat. I had planned to hike Monte San Salvatore the next morning, obviously it was time for a pizza and sleep to prepare.
I was up early for my hike of Monte San Salvatore. Mornings by Lake Lugano are beautiful..
The San Salvatore hike is no joke. There are a few options for your ascent; Use this website, it shows all the walks and trails… CLICK HERE!
I opted for a difficult route, up the side of the funicular, up the front of the mountain.. Paradiso-Pazzallo-San Salvatore was the route I used.
I saw 1 other person during my hike.. it was the ultimate reflective hike. It’s pretty well sign posted, but use the link and work out the trail which suits you.
Probably worth noting that the hike trails will require walking boots or a decent trainer.. the trails get wet, it’s very loose ground also. Be careful here, it does tend to rain at night and the trail was pretty raw during my hike.
Views from Monte San Salvatore are immense. My trips lately have become about goal setting, especially when it comes to a hike. The route by the locals said it was approx 2.5 hours, I crushed it in 1 hour 45.
Regardless of how long it takes you. The views are unforgettable.. There is also route for Via Ferrata, for those more experienced and wanting a challenge. I’d love to try Via Ferrata but I was warned that this route was a ‘high skilled’ route..
I didn’t use the San Salvatore funicular, but it’s worth noting it’ll save you some sore feet if you aren’t prepared!
The weather was HOT. Pushing over 32 degrees, after my hike I fancied a swim, and crossing off Goal 3. Lake Lugano was surprisingly warm! The water was cleaned and clear, swimming in a lake may but be for everyone but you should try it! I used the Lido which has access to the Lake, although there is plenty of places you can get into the Lake..
With Lugano being Swiss Italian you can guarantee food to be of the best quality. Of course, I opted for another Pizza by the Lake.
And this view was well worth waiting for..
Lugano has been a place I’ve wanted to visit for a few years. I’d recommend to anyone. You don’t have to do the hikes, you can use the funiculars. It’s very peaceful, you can swim the Lake.. it has so many options..
Lugano was done, I was headed across the border to Italy. Milano is next up.
@darrens_visuals 