The 5 best hikes to do in Ticino in 2026

1. Mount Brè – Lugano

🚶Level: Easy - ⏱ Average time: 1h30

↔️Distance: 4 km (round trip) - 📈Elevation gain: 300m

Why is it the best?

Because it's the ideal hike for those who want a 360° view of Lugano and its lake... without having to walk for 5 hours. At the top: breathtaking views. You'll see Lugano, the lake, and the Alps in the distance. There's also the Rifugio Monte Brè restaurant with its Ticinese dishes (try the gnocchi al ragù). Monte Brè (925 m) is the "balcony of Lugano", and you can get there:

• On foot (1h30 uphill from Cassarate).
• By funicular (10 min from Lugano, 12 CHF round trip).

Muule's little tips:

Even if the hike isn't very long, remember your cap or hat, and your sunglasses. And especially men's hiking shoes or women's hiking shoes to climb like a chamois. Muule's advice: Go at sunset for a magical moment (and amazing photos).

2. The Olive Grove Trail (Lugano – Gandria)

🚶Level: Easy - ⏱ Average time: 2h30

↔️ 6 km (loop) - 📈 Elevation gain: 200m

This is the most "dolce vita" hike in Ticino. Imagine: you start in Lugano, a chic city where yachts outnumber pigeons, and you end in Gandria, a fishing village with cobbled streets and the scent of olive oil. In between? Olive trees as far as the eye can see (yes, in Switzerland!) and breathtaking views of the lake. Fun fact: These olive trees were planted by the Romans. So yes, you're literally walking in the footsteps of Julius Caesar (or almost).

For the start, you can take the funicular from Lugano to San Salvatore (we won't judge you). From there, the path gently descends towards Carabbia, along the Olive Trail, an old mule track that winds through ancient trees. Once in Gandria, you have two options: return on foot (allow an extra 1 hour) or take the boat to Lugano (10 min, 8 CHF, and no effort).

Little Muule tips:

Here, you can bring your waterproof and breathable jacket in case the weather gets tricky. But most importantly, bring food and a water bottle so you don't run out of energy or worse... pass out.

3. The Eiger Trail: brag that you hiked the Eiger

🚶 Level: Moderate - Average time: 2h30

↔️ 6 km (round trip) - Elevation gain 600m

Want to impress your friends by telling them you walked on the Eiger? Well, technically, you walk next to it, but the effect is guaranteed. This legendary trail, carved into the rock, offers breathtaking views of the north face of Switzerland's most famous mountain. Be careful, some sections are dizzying: if you suffer from vertigo, close your eyes... or stay at the cafe downstairs.

Muule's little tips:

For this hike, a good hiking backpack (20-30L) is essential for carrying your picnic, your water bottle, and your camera. And if you really want to show off, opt for hiking poles: they relieve your knees and make you look like a pro. Don't forget a windbreaker jacket: even in summer, the wind can be tricky at altitude.

4. Schynige Platte to Oberberghorn: when you want to play Heidi

🚶 Level: Moderate - Average time: 3h

↔️ 8 km (round trip) - Elevation gain 500m

This hike is something of a Swiss hiker’s initiation rite. You start at Schynige Platte (accessible by cogwheel train, because Switzerland likes to combine effort and comfort), and you climb up to Oberberghorn. Along the way: alpine meadows as far as the eye can see, cows looking at you with pity, and wildflowers that smell like happiness. If you’re lucky, you’ll see marmots. If not, you can be sure to see fondue at the summit.

Muule’s little tips:

If you want to avoid being caught off guard by every little stone, good mid-height men’s hiking boots or women’s hiking boots are essential. A waterproof membrane like Gore-Tex is crucial so you don’t hear *squeak-squeak* throughout the hike. Finally, remember your sunscreen so you don’t end up as red as the poppies on the trail.

5. Grosse Scheidegg: The hike for the real pros (or the crazy ones, we don't judge)

🚶 Level: Difficult - Average time: 6h

↔️ 14 km (round trip) - Elevation gain 1600m

If you want to go pro, the Grosse Scheidegg is THE hike for you. 6 hours of walking, 1,600 meters of elevation gain, and landscapes that will make you cry (with joy... or fatigue). You'll pass through alpine pastures, high-altitude lakes, and finish with breathtaking views of the Wetterhorn. Be warned, this hike is serious: bring water, energy bars, and most importantly, an iron will. If you make it, you'll earn a drink at the summit refuge.

Muule's Little Tips:

For this demanding hike, a 30-35L backpack is recommended to carry everything you need. Don't forget to choose a breathable technical t-shirt for women or men to sweat without suffering or getting soaked. And to ensure you return in one piece, consider a first-aid kit.