Ticino is the southernmost canton of Switzerland and the area around Monte Generoso is the southernmost part of the country: Steep slopes, enchanted places, imposing forests. From the village of Scudellate you can walk to Italy or climb the Fiore di pietra mountain station. The hiking trails lead into a magical world and the local cuisine into the world of dreams.

Mendrisio. This is where the journey begins. And it should become one into a world, into a landscape – and into people who will not be forgotten in a hurry. The road leads uphill. It is winding. It is getting tighter and tighter. The area is becoming more and more authentic.

Simona is the good soul at Osteria Manciana. This is part of the Albergo Diffuso Monte Generoso project. The aim is to breathe new life into the entire region around Monte Generoso. With now five accommodations for every budget, as well as inns offering regional products. Guests are always at the centre – and are especially close to the hearts of the founders, Oscar and Claudio.

Each accommodation has its specialty. The Casa dei Gelsi is a special house. Like the village of Scudellate, it is located on the hillside, just opposite the Osteria Manciana. It impresses with its exclusivity, its breathtaking view of the Muggio Valley and the host Claudio. He personally takes care of the guests. He knows the region, the hiking trails, the history of the village. And he serves breakfast on what is probably the most beautiful terrace in the valley.

Almost everything that is served is local products. This is also the case in the Osteria. Ticino specialities are cooked there. Like the popular osso buco, which is prepared according to a secret family recipe.

Back to Casa dei Gelsi and Claudio. He not only explains his vegetable and herb garden to the guests, he also knows captivating stories about the valley's past. Life was hard back then. And he knows the most beautiful hiking trails. Like, for example, the one on the Alpe di Caviano?

Those who set out on the hiking trails in the area between Scudellate and Alpe di Caviano will find a natural tranquillity. It's like hiking through a nature museum. The chestnut woods, the foothills of Monte Generoso, the wildlife. It is an immersion in a magical world.

After all the impressions on the hike, the newly renovated Alpe di Caviano awaits you with a wonderful gastronomic and accommodation offer. Here, too, local cuisine, regional products and hospitality in the Ticino style. Plus alpine yoga. Lessons in nature are offered. The view is remarkable.

The Alpe di Caviano, like the rest of this area, is synonymous with tranquility. The alp and the Monte Generoso area are a refuge to switch off. Here you can get involved with nature and let the people and the culinary delights work their magic on you.