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Bellavista / Monte Generoso
Discover the Valley
Monte Generoso is a vast area and its peak, at 1701 meters above sea level, is a popular destination and the most panoramic point in Canton Ticino.
The history of tourism on the Monte Generoso tells a time when many accommodation facilities could be found here, on the summit as well as in the Bellavista area, also known as Alpe di Mendrisio. The place is located at an altitude of 1200 m/sm and can be easily reached on foot, by car, as well as by the Cremagliera train that climbs to the summit from Capolago. The Bellavista area contains several dairy and animal farms where guests can enjoy a relaxing, fun, and peaceful overnight stay. Starting from the Bellavista, it is possible to follow numerous hiking trails to the Generoso peak, the Val Mara, the Valle di Muggio and, via the Dossi, the Alpe di Caviano. Particularly interesting vantage points to visit include one near the Monte Generoso railway stop and the other at the Cascina d’Armirone.
Bellavista – Monte Generoso
The path that leads from Bellavista to the summit of Monte Generoso is one of the most traditional itineraries. Walking along its trails represents an opportunity to discover the morphology of the mountain and to admire its nature, its contrasts and a splendid panorama that allows one to appreciate from above the Bellavista, the Dossi and the Valle di Muggio regions. The path is easy to walk through, with moderate inclines, and therefore also making it suitable for families. The difference in height is nevertheless considerable (400 metres), which is why it is strongly recommended to wear suitable hiking shoes, carry a walking stick, and water along with you. Twelve information boards have been placed along the path to the summit, indicating the mountain's naturalistic specificities and its marine origin through geological vicissitudes and glaciations. The path crosses the railway tracks at several points and caution is therefore recommended when crossing. When you reach the summit, you can enjoy one of the most scenic vantage points, with a breath-taking view of the Gulf of Lugano and the Alpine chain: from Monte Rosa to the Matterhorn, from the Jungfrau to the Gotthard massif. At the “Fiore di Pietra”, built by architect Mario Botta, it is possible to stop by for refreshments, however, overnight accommodations are not available. With a final effort, the scenic summit (at an altitude of 1,704 metres) can be reached from the “Fiore di Pietra” in about 10 to 15 minutes on foot (with a difference in altitude of about 100 metres).
Monte Generoso
The panorama, the “Fiore di Pietra” (Stone Flower) and the Monte Generoso train are the main attractions of the summit, however, from the arrival station it is possible to walk to other destinations. The network of paths on the summit is more than 51 km long and reaches destinations on the Swiss territory, as well as on the Italian territory. Particularly interesting are the itinerary that leads to the Bear Cave (which can be visited during the summer by appointment only) and the itinerary that leads to discover the Nevere of Monte Generoso, along a very evocative route that allows one to descend until reaching the Bellavista again.
The fearless can admire the landscape surrounding Monte Generoso from the air by paragliding. Paragliding flights begin on Monte Generoso and then unfold in different directions flying over lakes, landscapes, and towns.
