About Monte Generoso 1,704m
Available: 30 March - 8 November.
Example travel costs - book locally
All prices are per person, in 2nd class (where relevant)
Swiss Travel Pass: FREE travel to Capolago. 27- 36 Sfr return for the mountain railway
Ticino Ticket: FREE travel to Capolago. 38 - 50 Sfr return for the mountain railway
Half Fare Card: 7 Sfr from Lugano to Capolago. 27-36 Sfr return for the mountain railway
Monte Generoso is the highest mountain around Lugano, standing at 1,704m above sea level. From the summit you have magnificent panoramic views over a wide sweep of the Alps, as well as the lakes of Lugano, Como and Maggiore. There is also the striking 'Fiore di Pietra' welcome centre.Â
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Contact us to book your holiday
Call us on 0800 619 1200 or email us at info@swissholidayco.com
Highlights
Cogwheel railway
The cogwheel railway has been running along a 9km stretch of the picturesque mountain scenery of the Monte Generoso Natural Park for over 125 years. The journey takes around 40 minutes and transports you from the shore of Lake Lugano to the peak at 1704m. We recommend sitting on the left hand side on the journey up in order to get the best panoramic view.
Steam train journey
Imagine chugging up the mountain on a lovingly restored 1890 steam locomotive. This special experience runs only a few times a year and must be booked in advance with Monte Generoso. 80 Sfr return per person (no reductions apply).
2026 dates
27 June, 25 July, 15 August, 19 September
The journey takes 2 hours with a stop in Bellavista to refill the water tanks - the perfect moment to stretch your legs and take photos.Â
Enchanting views
At the summit you will discover panoramic views over the region's lakes (Lugano, Como, Varese and Maggiore), as well as the resort of Lugano. On a clear day you can see Milan and the Apennines and a spectacular mountain vista from the Matterhorn to the Jungfrau to the Bernina Alps.
Walking
Monte Generoso offers 51km of gentle walking and more challenging hiking paths through the spectacular natural scenery. Information boards help to identify valleys, lakes, villages, and peaks as you wander.
Experienced walkers might like to leave the cogwheel train at the Bellavista mid-station and hike the remaining 3.5km to the top; it's a scenic route and takes around an hour and a half.
Restaurants
At the top of Monte Generosa is the new 'Fiore di Pietra' welcome centre - a unique work of architecture. Within this striking building you will find the cosy Generoso self-service café with its sun terrace and children's playground, and the elegant Fiore di Pietra restaurant offering regional specialities.Â
Directions
From Lugano, you can take a short journey by rail or boat to Capolago, which is the small town at the foot of Monte Generoso. The cogwheel train then departs hourly.Â
Please check before travel for maintenance closures.
Request your holiday quotation
Call us on 0800 619 1200 or email us at info@swissholidayco.com