Monte San Giorgio cycling itinerary

The itinerary starts at the Capolago railway station. From here, follow Via al Mulino, then Via Segoma in the direction of Riva San Vitale. On entering the village it is worth making a small detour to the baptistery of San Giovanni, an important example of early Christian architecture.

Skirting Lake Lugano, continue along the cantonal road to the start of the Brusino-Serpiano cable car, Switzerland’s first aerial cable car. Load the bicycles into the cabin (check opening times) and in a few minutes you will reach Serpiano (653 m a.s.l.) where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains and the Lugano region.

Make your way back down towards Meride (583 m a.s.l.) on the main road shrouded in woodland, passing through the enchanting old town with the Monte San Giorgio Fossil Museum, where you can experience the fascinating world of 240 million years ago with virtual reality stations, fossils and life-size Triassic dinosaurs.

Continue on to Tremona (571 m a.s.l.), where you can visit the archaeological park (open March-November) and experience augmented reality with special 3D glasses. Then head towards Rancate along the cycle path.

On Via Cercera, ride through the railway subway and continue along Via Carlo Diener. Following Via Giuseppe Motta, you will come to the historic city centre, rich in points of interest such as Casa Pollini, the renovated Piazza del Ponte with the church of SS Cosma e Damiano, the Art Museum and the Servite Cloister.

When you reach Villa Argentina Park, follow the official signposted route number 3 (North-South Route). Leaving the town centre behind, proceed along the cantonal road in the direction of Riva San Vitale, entering the Parco del Laveggio and following the river until you find yourself back at the starting point at Capolago station.

Numerous refreshment points and fountains can be found along the way, for an even more enjoyable outing.