Castagnola

Castagnola lies on the lakeshore at the eastern edge of Lugano, where the slope of Monte Brè drops steeply into Lake Lugano, and it is now a district of the city. The name suggests chestnuts, and the hillsides around still carry woodland of chestnut and other broadleaved trees. For a long time it was a village apart, with old stone houses, narrow lanes and small gardens climbing the slope, and it kept that feel even after it joined Lugano.

The district has long been a refuge for people who wanted to escape the city heat while staying close to it. Wealthy families built villas among the gardens, and the shore became a place for strolling under old trees along the water. The lake views are the main attraction: across the water lies the mass of Monte San Salvatore, and the shoreline curves away toward Paradiso and the centre of Lugano. In spring the gardens blossom, and the combination of lake, mountain and Mediterranean vegetation gives the area an unmistakably southern feel that sets Ticino apart from the rest of Switzerland.

Walkers will find Castagnola a good starting point. A well-known path, the Olive Trail, leads from Castagnola along the lake to the village of Gandria, passing terraces planted with olive trees and offering views over the water. The route is not long but includes steps and uneven stretches, and it is worth taking time to enjoy it. Other paths climb the slope of Monte Brè, joining the mountain's network of walking trails, with sections that are steep and best suited to people used to hill walking.

Monte Brè itself is reached by a funicular that starts from the Cassarate district, just along the shore from Castagnola, and carries passengers up to the summit area with its restaurant and wide views of the lake and the Alps. The funicular is the easy option for those who want the panorama without the climb, and it can be combined with a walk down to Castagnola along the mountain paths.

Public transport reaches the district easily from the centre of Lugano, and a lakeside walk from the city takes a pleasant half hour or so. Castagnola suits those who like quiet streets, views and a leisurely day by the water.