Hint

Intro

The views here are unrivalled: This ridge walk from Monte Lema to Monte Tamaro is a classic amongst the Swiss high-altitude hikes. The panoramic views are unbeatable, extending from the Leventina region over the surrounding valleys and up into the Valais Alps to the west and the Graubünden Alps to the east.

Description

This high-altitude hike runs almost exclusively along the ridge close to the Swiss-Italian border. The view from the summit of Monte Lema at the start of the hike is truly unforgettable. Lake Lugano sparkles far below on one side and Lake Maggiore on the other, both picturesquely nestled in the mountains of southern Ticino.

These picture-postcard views continue throughout this mountain hike, which includes only two major climbs: one up Monte Gradiccioli and the other up Monte Tamaro towards the end of the trail. For those who would rather avoid climbing these peaks, there are easy alternatives for bypassing both.

The Capanna Tamaro beneath the summit is a must, however. 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, a delight for culture aficionados with its Chiesa di Santa Maria degli Angeli, a church designed by Mario Botta.

Note

The hike can be completed in either direction. In summer, there is a shuttle bus to take you back to the starting point. The combination ticket can be purchased at participating stations up to 11:30 a.m.

 

An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted

Technical information

Show Technical information content
Direction
One way
Ascent
873 m
Descent
888 m
Distance
13 km
Duration
4 h 40 min
Technical requirements
Medium
Physical requirements
Difficult
Season
May - October
Theme
With panoramic view, To a mountain peak
Category
Active, Adventure, Nature

Map

SwitzerlandMobility Map: This element is not accessible for disabled people.

Getting there

Cable car to Monte Lema

Contact

Lugano Region
Via Magatti 6
6900  Lugano
Switzerland

Phone  +41 (0)58 220 65 06
info@luganoregion.com
luganoregion.com

Quick Facts

Route number

Distance

13 km

Duration

4 h 40 min

Ascent

873 m

Travel information: Tamaro - Lema

  • Lugano Biking Holidays Lugano Bike

    Luggage transfer, travel documents, navigation app, SchweizMobil-Plus subscription from CHF 685
    Offer details


    valid: 20.06.2026 - 18.10.2026

    Learn more about Biking Holidays Lugano Bike
  • Lugano Boat trip Lugano - Morcote ticket

    Discover the enchanting Lake Lugano between Lugano and Morcote with this boat ticket. from CHF 27.60
    Offer details


    valid: 20.06.2026 - 18.10.2026

    Learn more about Boat trip Lugano - Morcote ticket
  • Lugano From Lugano: private day trip Verzasca Valley and Lake Maggiore

    Discover the crystal clear waters of the Verzasca River on this private excursion. Admire also Lake... from CHF 990
    Offer details


    valid: 21.06.2026 - 30.11.2026

    Learn more about From Lugano: private day trip Verzasca Valley and Lake Maggiore
  • Rivera Pool and Day Spa Ticket at Splash and Spa

    A great adventure pool with attraction pool and integrated pool bar, fast water slides, a wonderful... from CHF 70
    Offer details


    valid: 20.06.2026 - 31.12.2026

    Learn more about Pool and Day Spa Ticket at Splash and Spa
  • Lugano Monte Brè Cable Car Ticket from Lugano Cassarate

    The cable car departs from Lugano Cassarate in two sections up to Monte Brè. It covers a total of... from CHF 17
    Offer details


    valid: 20.06.2026 - 12.12.2026

    Learn more about Monte Brè Cable Car Ticket from Lugano Cassarate
  • Lugano Hiking holidays Centre tour Lago di Lugano

    Luggage transfer, travel documents, navigation app, SchweizMobil-Plus subscription from CHF 999
    Offer details


    valid: 20.06.2026 - 11.10.2026

    Learn more about Hiking holidays Centre tour Lago di Lugano
  • Rivera Ticket Monte Tamaro with the cable car from Rivera

    Take the cable car to the Alpe Foppa station on Monte Tamaro in Ticino and discover the wonderful... from CHF 26
    Offer details


    valid: 20.06.2026 - 08.11.2026

    Learn more about Ticket Monte Tamaro with the cable car from Rivera
  • Rivera Monte Tamaro lunch incl. train ticket

    Take the cable car up to the Alpe Foppa mountain station and enjoy a delicious meal in the mountain... from CHF 42.50
    Offer details


    valid: 20.06.2026 - 08.11.2026

    Learn more about Monte Tamaro lunch incl. train ticket
  • Lugano Private day trip to Stresa and the Borromean Islands

    You will be picked up from your hotel in the greater Lugano area and taken to Stresa. There, you... from CHF 990
    Offer details


    valid: 21.06.2026 - 30.10.2026

    Learn more about Private day trip to Stresa and the Borromean Islands
  • Lugano Foxtrail GO Lugano digital scavenger hunt

    Discover Lugano on a digital scavenger hunt through the city. Solve puzzles, find clues, and collect... from CHF 19
    Offer details


    valid: 20.06.2026 - 19.06.2027

    Learn more about Foxtrail GO Lugano digital scavenger hunt