"You must have personally been up here if you want to have an idea of its grandiosity and magnificence, and only then will this moment become one of the most beautiful and unforgettable ones of your life". Such was the powerful evocative beauty of the stunning blue waters of Lake Lugano and the surrounding alpine mountains that inspired the renowned German philosopher C. C. Lorenz Hirschfeld, from Monte San Salvatore’s panoramic summit. Aside from its splendid natural beauty, the mountain possesses deep religious history, and once served both as a refuge to the poor and a pilgrimage site for members of the Archfraternity, a brotherhood that has been dedicated to noble and humanitarian causes for centuries.

Today, the summit can easily be accessed via a funicular ride leaving from Paradiso in Lake Lugano within a matter of minutes, after which stunning, magnificent vistas of the crown jewel of Switzerland greet the visiting tourist. Starting from the idyllic summit of Monte San Salvatore, hiking aficionados can explore the unspoiled natural landscape with ease, including a trail leading to the charming village of Carona. Adrenaline junkies and experienced climbers can challenge themselves on the intimidating cliff face of the “via ferrata”, making for an exhilarating and unforgettable experience at the spectacular Monte San Salvatore.