Lugano

At the foot of Monte San Salvatore, on the Melide causeway is an open-air museum, just as its name depicts, it showcases miniature’s Switzerland’s big landmarks such as the Chillon Castle, Heide’s House and much more. There are numerous miniature trains, ships and cable cars. There are 15000 species of flowers and thousands of trees as well surrounding the models making it an ideal retreat for all.

Stepping onto the waterfront promenade at Lugano, you will come across a striking view of Lake Lugano. Mountains with wood-cloaked slopes plunging onto the lake on every shore. Lake Lugano is a 50 sqm glacial lake situated on the border between Switzerland and Italy. The mountains not only give a mesmerizing backdrop creating an aura of mysterious beauty from every angle, but also provide some of Europe’s finest viewpoints to admire it from. Some of the best spots around the lake, its traditional grotto’s can be accessible by boat or opt for a short halt at some informal restaurants along its shore. The climate is a colder version of a quintessential Mediterranean climate, it allows temperate trees to grow alongside cypress and citrus trees.

Monte San Salvatore’s summit at an altitude of meters offers one of the most stunning and panoramic views in the entire Alps. In just 12 minutes a funicular takes you up the precipitous slope from Paradiso to the summit. The upper station at the summit is a start of the adventure for determined hikers as they can pick up the trails for Carona or venture even further along the ridge to the lakeside town of Morcote. Attractions also include fossil research museums and azalea gardens.

Gandria is a charming lakeside village located on the eastern slopes of Monte Bre and is officially a part of Lugano since 2004. Gandria maintains its unspoiled look of 100 years old when it was a den for illicit trade. You can stroll along the streets and stairways which are grooved with hairpin turns. The façade of the 15th century church of St. Viglio has historic memorials of members of famous local families. View after view unfolds as you pass through the narrow streets of the lakeside village and among the gardens along way shaded by cypress trees, pines and olive trees. Along the way you come across panels which explain the history and cultivation of olive trees. The Sentiero dell’Olivo, Olive Path leads to the picturesque village of Gandria

Christmas in Lugano starts with the lighting of the Christmas tree in Riforma square by the Mayor. From here on the city turns into a lively village with Christmas lights, sounds and colours. It bestows opportunities for entertainment, musical performances and the market set up at Piazza della Riforma offerning countless home-made products, little wood objects and interesting gift suggestions. The square is often populated with gastronomic chalets that will delight everyone by offering sweets, vin brûlé, pretzels and lots more. The frosty winter period is also remembered as a romantic, contemplative and cozy Christmas season. Ice skating rink in the centre is surrounded by Christmas decorations.