Monte Generoso at 1'701 metres rises on the border between Switzerland and Italy and commands a panorama of extraordinary breadth: on clear days, the viewing platform overlooks Lake Lugano, Lake Como, the entire Ticino Alps and – in exceptional moments – the silhouette of Milan Cathedral. The Fiore di Pietra – a stone flower viewing structure designed by architect Mario Botta – has crowned the summit since 2017.

The Monte Generoso Railway, a steam rack railway, runs from Capolago on Lake Lugano to the summit – the journey takes around 40 minutes and is itself a voyage through Mediterranean and alpine vegetation zones. On the summit, a rare alpine flora grows; the area is designated as a nature reserve.

The railway departs from Capolago on the southern shore of Lake Lugano. Capolago is reachable by train from Lugano in around 15 minutes. By car, drive via Mendrisio to Capolago. The railway runs seasonally from April to November. Tickets: montegeneroso.ch