Sentiero in Cresta: Monte Lema – Monte Tamaro

Technical information

Starting point:	Monte Lema
Destination:	Alpe Foppa (Monte Tamaro)
Getting to the starting point:	Cable railway to Monte Lema
Getting to the destination:	Cable railway from Alpe Foppa (Monte Tamaro)
Technique:	medium
Physical fitness:	challenging
Length:	13km
Hiking time:	5h30
Season:	May till October

Description

This high altitude hike runs almost exclusively along the ridge close to the Swiss-Italian border. A unique feature is the view from the summit of Monte Lema right at the start: To the one side, Lake Lugano sparkles far below and to the other side Lake Maggiore, both picturesquely embedded in the mountains of southern Ticino.

The picture-postcard panorama remains your constant companion on this mountain tour, which includes only two major climbs: One up Monte Gradiccioli and towards the end the climb up Monte Tamaro. For those who don't feel like climbing to the summits, there are easy alternatives for bypassing both challenges.

There is however no trail to the Capanna Tamaro beneath the summit. This hut is nestled close to the mountainside and offers up homemade specialities in addition to the views from the sunny terrace. From here it is only a stone's throw down to Alpe Foppa, which is a delight for culture aficionados with its Chiesa di Santa Maria degli Angeli, a church designed by Mario Botta.

Tour Overview

3D hiking map Download GPX coordinates Download KMZ (GoogleEarth)

Profile

The careful planning of a tour will ensure that you also derive the maximum pleasure and enjoyment from it. Please take the time to contact the local information centre and enquire about route and weather conditions before setting off. Your intended trail may be fully or partially closed, depending on the time of year and weather conditions.