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Alpine hut at Adelboden

In Ticino, the sun-drenched southern tip of Switzerland, alpine scenery meets Mediterranean flair. Between towering peaks and palm-lined shores, a landscape of striking contrasts unfolds.

Questions and answers about hiking holidays in Ticino

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We offer our hiking tours in Ticino from April to October – an ideal time for active exercise in the fresh air.

The southernmost canton of Switzerland is considered a real hiker's paradise. There are particularly beautiful hiking tours around Bellinzona, in the picturesque swamp area near Gola di Lago, on Monte Bigorio, around Lugano and Serpiano or on Monte San Giorgio, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Experience Ticino from its most beautiful side on our individual hiking tour:

Discover even more information and tour suggestions for hiking holidays in Switzerland.

Our hiking tour Highlights of Ticino leads you on good hiking paths and the daily distances are rather short. Due to the good routing, this active vacation is also ideal for a hiking holiday with a dog.

A hiking holiday in Ticino is a highlight by itself. From the Mediterranean atmosphere, the fantastic natural landscapes and wonderful hiking paths, the diverse flora and fauna and a wonderfully tasty cuisine – the southernmost canton of Switzerland convinces all active vacationers from the first step of hiking.

What awaits you culturally: The three castles of Bellinzona, which are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are particularly impressive. Marvel at some of the most important dinosaur fossils from the UNESCO World Heritage Site Monte San Giorgio in the Fossil Museum in Meride.

Which scenic views you can look forward to: Wonderful panoramas are guaranteed on our hiking tour Highlights of Ticino. Whether on Monte Bigorio, Monte San Salvatore or on Monte Bré – these distant views will inspire you!

Food & drink – you should definitely try these specialities: the regional salami, a minestrone, the vegetable cake 'Smeazza', the risotto with Luganighe, a smoked sausage, or the risotto with blueberries. Equally typical for the region is a fish from the oven – 'Coregoni al forno'. Not to be forgotten are the wonderful desserts such as the Torta di pane ticinese (Ticino bread cake) or the chestnut cream 'Crema di castagne'. Be sure to try a glass of Ticino Merlot that bears the VITI (Vini Ticinesi) mark of origin or label.

Our most beautiful hiking tours in Ticino

Highlights of Ticino

The real Italianità awaits you on our walking holidays Highlights of Ticino, 7 days. Panoramic mountain trails, lively cities, glittering lakes, typical villages and culinary delights will be your companions over five daily stages. You start your active holiday in Bellinzona with an ascent to Cima di Dentro. Continue via Tesserete to Monte Brè and, after a short photo stop on the imposing viewing platform, take the cogwheel train down to Lugano. The next day’s stage also has a wonderful hike ready for you. From Monte San Salvatore you go to Vico Morcote and continue by boat and cable car to Serpiano. On the last day you will experience Monte San Giorgio up close, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the ‘Mountain of Fossils’ before you reach the stage destination of Medrisio. A wonderful hiking trip that you can also experience as a walking holiday with your dog, thanks to the good routes.

Panoramic view of Lake Lugano from Monte Bré

Wildstrubel Round Tour

A fantastic hiking holiday awaits you between Crans-Montana, Adelboden and Lenk. On our Wildstrubel Round Tour, you will experience the alpine landscape and alpine passes of Switzerland, picturesque mountain valleys and the Mediterranean influence of Italy all at the same time. Enjoy the culinary and scenic charm of Switzerland and Italy. With a very good level of fitness, surefootedness and a head for heights, this trekking tour in Ticino will be an unforgettable active adventure.

Kandersteg

Top Attractions around Mont Blanc

Lugano

An elegant city on Lake Lugano, with Mediterranean charm and beautiful waterfront promenades.

Locarno

Famous for the annual Locarno Film Festival in August.

Bellinzona

The capital of Ticino and part of the UNESCO World Heritage.

Lake Maggiore

Known for its Borromean Islands and Isola di Brissago.

Useful information about hiking in Ticino

Facts

  • Highest point: Rheinwaldhorn at 3,402 metres
  • Lowest point: Lake Maggiore at 193 metres above sea level (the lowest point in Switzerland)
  • Location: Southern Switzerland (largest part of Italian Switzerland)
  • Time to travel: Best hiking time is from April to October
  • Special feature: Ticino is one of the most valuable and important wine-growing regions in Europe and both regions north and south of the Monte Ceneri pass are ideal for growing vines.
  • Climate: The region is characterised by a mild, Mediterranean climate with low head and moderate cold, as well as humidity.
The harbour of Ascona

Climate in Ticino

The climate in Ticino provides pleasant conditions for hikers all year round. In spring and summer, warm Mediterranean temperatures create the perfect setting for hikes along picturesque lakes and through lush valleys. Spring, in particular, brings the region to life with vibrant colors, offering a chance to fully enjoy its rich flora and fauna. Autumn casts a golden glow over Ticino, with mild temperatures and quieter trails—ideal for peaceful, relaxed tours. Even in winter, Ticino is a wonderful place to explore on foot, as the mild climate makes hiking in lower elevations enjoyable. Tip: The weather in Ticino, especially in the mountains, can be unpredictable. It’s always a good idea to bring weatherproof clothing to be prepared for any conditions.

Die Ponte dei Salti in the Verzasca Valley

Culture and Traditions

In Ticino, the Italian-speaking south of Switzerland, culture is alive in every corner of the region—deeply rooted in the landscape and the way of life of its people. Here, between rolling hills and the shores of Lake Maggiore, traditions are not just preserved but passionately celebrated. A true highlight is Rabadan, one of Switzerland’s largest carnival festivals, which has brought lively celebrations and dancing to Bellinzona every February for over 160 years. The region is also shaped by the art of chestnut cultivation and the tradition of Marroni vendors, a testament to its deep connection with nature. Those who want to experience the heartbeat of Ticino even more intensely can explore its museums, festivals, and charming handmade markets—taking a piece of its vibrant traditions home with them.

 

Chestnuts

Cuisine

Ticino not only offers wonderful experiences for the body and soul but also delights the palate with its culinary treasures. Whether savoring regional specialties at one of the many fine food shops in Lugano or enjoying a cozy dinner in a traditional grotto with a glass of local Merlot, unforgettable moments of indulgence are guaranteed on a hiking holiday in Ticino.

Merlot

Did you know, ...

  • ... did you know that Ticino, with its Italian cuisine and excellent wines, has become a popular destination for food connoisseurs?
  • ... that Ticino, due to its southern location and Mediterranean influences, is also known as the "Sunshine Region of Switzerland"?
  • ... that the capital city, Bellinzona, with its three medieval castles, which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage, offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's history?
  • ... that Ticino has a rich tradition of crafting handmade Swiss watches, produced in renowned watchmaking workshops?
A Swiss pocket watch
Sabrina Huber

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Sabrina Huber
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