Monte Generoso
Lofty summit featuring restaurants with lake and Alps views, reached by a cogwheel railway
About Monte Generoso
Lakes Region
Monte Generoso, rising gracefully to 1,704 metres along the Swiss-Italian border, is one of the most breathtaking vantage points in the Lugano Prealps. From its summit, you’re treated to sweeping, cinematic views of Lake Lugano, Lake Como, Lake Maggiore and even the distant peaks of the Matterhorn and Jungfrau on clear days. The adventure begins with a ride on the historic Monte Generoso Railway, a charming cogwheel train that climbs from the lakeside village of Capolago through forests and mountain pastures to the very top. Running from spring to autumn, the journey becomes even more magical in summer, when a 19th-century steam locomotive – the oldest of its kind still in operation in Switzerland – takes to the tracks. At the summit, the striking Fiore di pietra (Stone Flower), designed by renowned architect Mario Botta, welcomes visitors with its bold architecture, two panoramic restaurants, and unforgettable Alpine views. The mountain is a paradise for walkers, with more than 50 kilometres of scenic trails winding through pristine landscapes, from gentle paths to the ancient “ice pits” once used by herders to store milk. Monte Generoso is not just beautiful, but thoughtful too – it’s fully accessible and proudly committed to sustainability, making it a destination where nature, heritage, and innovation come together in harmony.
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