Monte Brè at 925 metres is the sunniest mountain in Switzerland – measured by annual sunshine hours – and rises east of Lugano directly above Lake Lugano. The summit village of Brè with its colourful houses, painters' studios and restaurants is one of the most charming viewpoints in Ticino.

From the top, the view takes in Lake Lugano, the city of Lugano, the surrounding mountains and on clear days as far as the Po Plain. In the village of Brè there is a small outdoor sculpture collection. The slopes of Monte Brè are covered with olive trees and Mediterranean shrubs, creating a southern atmosphere markedly different from the Swiss Alps.

Monte Brè is reachable by funicular from the Cassarate district of Lugano in around 20 minutes. Cassarate is accessible from central Lugano by bus in just a few minutes. Tickets: montebre.ch