Just a few kilometres from the Italian border, don’t miss the spectacular itinerary that leads from Monte Tamaro to Monte Lema, one of the most stunning scenic walks in Ticino.
The crossing that leads from Monte Tamaro to Monte Lema (or vice-versa) has become “a must”, attracting even the least daring of hikers. The excursion starts in Rivera from where you take the cableway. In just a few minutes, you’ll be whisked to Alpe Foppa, standing at an altitude of 1,530 meters. Here, you will find the S. Maria degli Angeli chapel designed by world-famous architect Mario Botta in the 1990s. A marvel of contemporary architecture it features paintings by Enzo Cucchi.
MONTE TAMARO… an explosion of colours
The Monte Tamaro region also offers a vast choice of sports activities (Adventure Park, sledge course, paragliding, mountain biking, downhill courses and Nordic walking) which together with its restaurant and cultural and nature area, make it an interesting destination for leisure and entertainment. To start the crossing, it’s necessary to first ascend to the top of Monte Tamaro (located at a distance of about one hour and standing at an altitude of 1,962m). This is where a fairly easy up-and-down path begins following the mountain crest through peaks, slopes and pastures, finally reaching Monte Lema in the Malcantone district (1,620 m). Along the entire trail, the view opens up to the North onto Lake Maggiore, Centovalli, the Verzasca Valley, the Maggia Valley, Locarno and Bellinzona while, to the South, you can take in Lugano with its valleys and lake. The walk can be completed, starting from the opposite direction. During summer, those holding a combined ticket, purchased at either the respective departure or arrival stations before 11.30am, can use the shuttle service that takes visitors back to their departure point.

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