By cable car from Locarno to Cardada
Fantastic views of Lake Maggiore
Discover the incredible view of Lake Maggiore. An unforgettable experience surrounded by the idyllic nature of Cardada.
Day trip from Locarno
Just a few minutes from Locarno, in the middle of a magnificent mountain landscape, the aerial cableway takes you up the Cardada-Cimetta mountain. Two cable cars run alternately every half hour from the Orselina valley station (395 meters) to Cardada (1,340 meters).
Funicular railway
The ride on the historic funicular starts in Locarno. The journey takes you along Belvedere and Madonna del Sasso to the valley station in Orselina. From there, the funicular takes you to Cardada-Cimetta, where the beautiful mountain paths invite you to go hiking.
The funicolare is a typical single-track funicular. The line largely follows the course of the Ramogna river from the town. Valuable technical structures are lined up along the route, such as the arched bridge made of stone blocks or the steel lattice bridge over the Ramogna. Also worth seeing is the valley station, which is integrated into a residential complex from the late 19th century.
By cable car to Cardada
Take the gondola from the valley station in Orselina to Cardada. Cardada offers an incredible view from the Magadino plain over the beautiful Brissago Islands to Italy. The view over Lake Maggiore is unforgettably beautiful.
On arrival, there are numerous viewpoints to discover. One of the most unique views can be enjoyed from the viewing platform of the Panorama Passerelle. This leads over granite slabs through the treetops to the end of the footbridge. Explanatory panels on the parapet explain the enigmatic symbols on the granite slabs as well as the origin of life.
Experience the Grand Tour of Switzerland photo spot and more
There is a Grand Tour of Switzerland photo spot near the mountain station. A small reflexology trail runs alongside it. During geocaching, the world's largest GPS scavenger hunt, small hidden objects can be discovered.
A 1.2 km play trail is equipped with very special play equipment designed to appeal to the senses of children and the young at heart. The two play zones, the Noah's Ark playground, the giant chess game, the #swingtheworld swing and the amusing treasure hunt are perfect for families. A 2-seater chairlift runs from Cardada to Cimetta parallel to the railroad axis.
Continue by chairlift to Cimetta
The highest point in Cimetta is designed as an observation station. From the large platform, you can enjoy a wonderful 360° panoramic view over Locarno and the surrounding mountains, which extend as far as the Monte Rosa massif.
Hikes, bike trails and restaurants
From leisurely strolls to challenging mountain hikes. Thanks to its location between the Maggia and Verzasca valleys, Cardada Cimetta is the ideal starting point for excursions into both valleys or even higher up by trekking to the “Via Alta Vallemaggia”.
For sports enthusiasts, there are three Helsana Nordic Walking trails, an orienteering route, the “397” mountain bike trail and a launch site for paragliders.
Five restaurants and mountain huts will spoil you with Ticino specialties.