Lugano and its surroundings will surprise you with all their natural beauties and attractions. The peaks of San Salvatore and Monte Brè, one of the sunniest mountains in Switzerland, loom on opposite sides of the town, offering a wonderful view over the Alps, Monte Rosa and Lake Lugano.
Monte Brè (933 m) is the ideal place for an excursion, amidst art and nature trails. Formerly home to numerous artists who left an interesting heritage, the charming village of Brè is located just 15-20 minutes from the arrival station of the funicular.
The cable car takes you from Lugano- Cassarate to the summit of Monte Brè in about twenty minutes, passing through the villages of Suvigliana, Albonago, Aldesago and Brè, all highly sought-after panoramic residential areas on account of their scenic positions. The departure station is connected to Lugano’s city center by a public bus.
On reaching the summit, in addition to a breathtaking panoramic view, you will find a small church and two restaurants, the Osteria della Funicolare and the Ristorante Vetta, both of which have terraces offering magnificent panoramic views. A short walk (taking you along a trail and up a stairway, about 20 minutes) leads down to the centre of Brè, sitting at an altitude of 785m.
Formerly a rural village, it has now been turned into a holiday resort and residence, attracting numerous artists and casual visitors thanks to its wealth of cultural and artistic treasures. A tangible sign of the interest aroused by this small village is its artistic heritage. We are here referring to some twenty works by contemporary artists including Aligi Sassu, Armando Losa, Gianfredo Camesi, Emilio Rissone, Mariapia Borgnini and Fra Roberto Pasotti, displayed for all to see, among the small squares and paved alleyways.
The Monte Brè region offers a number of magnificent nature trails including the one that leads to Monte Boglia, the first spectacular stop on a 3-day hike of the area. Cycling enthusiasts can also rent a mountain bike at the summit and ride along one of the signposted trails.
Suggestion by Lugano Turismo