Lugano

The border between Switzerland and Italy runs through Lake Lugano. It lies between Lakes Como and Maggiore and is the smallest of the three lakes. The lake is not very wide and its deepest point is 288 m. The coastline is rugged and the backdrop is mountainous. Monte Brè (925m), Monte San Salvadore (912m) and Monte Generoso (1701m) are popular attractions in the area. There are several Venetian-styled villages along the shoreline, many that are accessible only by water. Lugano, the city is situated on the north shore. The southern shores are rich with fossil findings.

This city park is 6.3 ha of open space which serves as the lungs of the city. It is situated on the shores of Lake Lugano and swimming is permitted in designated areas. The century old trees provide welcome shade on hot days. There are statues, memorials and fountains providing structural interest. The Italian and English parts of the garden are formal with colorful flower beds and manicured lawn. Other areas have been left more natural. There is wildlife on the water and in the gardens. The children's play area has several games. The venue is used for open events.

Parco Civico-Ciani, Piazza della Riforma, Palazzo Civico, 6901, Lugano, Phone: +41-05-82-20-65-00

Activities and Attractions for Couples:

The cable car was installed in the center of Lugano in 1908 to enable citizens to escape to the fresh air at the top of Monte Brè. The journey of 1.6 km takes 10 minutes, to a height of 933 m above sea level. At the top the scenery is spectacular. Visitors can choose to relax on the terrace at the restaurant, see the Wilhelm Schmid art museum or to do something more athletic, like hiking, mountain biking or walking to a nearby traditional village. There is an option to hire a mountain bike to ride back down to Lugano.

Funicolare Monte Bre, Via Ceresio di Suvigliana 36, CH-6977 Ruvigliana, Phone: +41-9-19-71-31-71

Herman Hesse was born a Russian citizen but during his lifetime switched nationalities to Swiss, German and then Swiss again. He was a writer, traveller, painter and book dealer. His work was declared undesirable during Hitler's era but he received the Nobel Prize for literature shortly after the war. The Hermann Hesse Museum is housed in the ancient tower in Casa Camuzzi, where Herman Hesse lived from 1919 to 1931. It was opened in 1997. There is a permanent exhibition of his books, paintings, photographs and personal belongings chronicling the 40 years he lived in the Lugano area.

What to do if you are traveling with kids:

After seeing the miniature park in Madurodam in Holland, Pierre Vuigner had the notion to create a miniature Switzerland. He searched for land in a suitable setting and finally settled for Melide, a small village on the shores of Lake Lugano. With the help of the mayor he secured the land and then invested all his capital in the 1:25 models of trains, cable cars and buildings, opening the park in the summer of 1959. The park is open April to October, from 9 am to 6 pm daily. Behind-the-scenes tours reveal the operation and maintenance of the dioramas and models.

Swissminiatur, Via Cantonale, Melide 6815, Switzerland

The Olive Grove Trail was started by the Friends of the Olive Tree. Eighteen signboards along the 3 km path tell the story of the ancient trees that are still alive, the new plantings and the precious oil that is produced from their fruit. The trail runs from Castagnola to Gandria, mostly along a flat path but there are steep inclines and stairs. There are cafés along the way and beaches where walkers can cool off. On the way back the views are as spectacular but seen from another angle. Another way to return would be by bus or lake boat.

Alprose is the largest manufacturer of chocolates in Switzerland. The company was started in 1957 and a small museum, which explains the history and process of making chocolate, was opened in 1991. Visitors have an option of taking a guided tour through the factory which includes the museum and ends in the chocolate shop. The company's entire range is available for sale and there are plenty of opportunities to taste the free samples. The prices at the factory are much lower than in retail outlets. The museum and shop are open all week but the factory operates only on weekdays.

Alprose Chocolate Museum, Via Rompada 36, 6987 Caslano, Switzerland, Phone: +41-9-16-11-88-56

Vico Morcote is one of the villages on the shores of Lake Lugano. The village has a footprint of two square miles, incorporating lake shore and mountain top. Hiking paths and roads wind their way through the steep terrain. The village has a population of around 400 which is a cosmopolitan mix of many nations. Many languages can be heard in the village. The five star Swiss Diamond Hotel is situated near the lake. The Church of Saints Fedele and Simon has a 16th century facade and an interesting interior, with spectacular views to the lake below.

If you are a photographer, don't miss:

Monte San Salvatore is a 912 m high mountain in the Lepontine Alps, above lake Lugano. It is known as the Sugar Loaf Mountain of Switzerland. A funicular links the city of Lugano to the summit. Passengers need to change carriages halfway along the 1.6 km journey because the vehicles are designed for different gradients. At the top, Restaurant Vetta offers panoramic views of the lake and mountains. It seats 200 people and serves the dish of the day. It is available for private functions. In the village of Carona, there is a small church and a museum dedicated to San Salvatore.