From the summit of Mount San Salvatore to Morcote

After reaching Mount San Salvatore by cable car, departing from Paradiso or from the intermediate stop at Pazzallo, we recommend you proceed on foot to the very summit of the Mount to take advantage of the wonderful lookout point with its breathtaking 360° view. Once you've returned down, near the restaurant, take the trail in the direction of the Ciona locality. Then, reach the cantonal road and proceed along a mule track that leads to Carona, a quaint little village that was the birthplace of many architects, stucco and master stone workers that emigrated to the most important centres in Italy and Europe. Carona's town centre is extremely charming and picturesque. Mention must be made of the parish church of San Giorgio, built in the 16th Century and of Romanesque origin that contains a fresco in its choir depicting the Universal Judgement by D. Pezzi. Once you've reached the village, near the «Pan Perdü» Grotto, you turn right taking the small road that leads to the San Grato Botanical Park. This park, whose grounds extend for 62.000 sq. metres, has the largest collection of azaleas, rhododendrons and conifers of the entire Insubric Region both in terms of quantity and variety. From the park it's also possible to enjoy an exceptional view of the immediate surroundings and of the peaks of the Alps. The walk continues along a wide shaded path that passes through the Arbòstora Mount and reaches Alpe Vicagna; from here you may descend to Morcote first walking through the woods and then down the stairs right behind this characteristic village on the lakefront. The typical narrow streets and the porticos of the ancient patrician houses make this village a pleasant tourist destination. The Scherrer Park, also known as a wonderland garden on account of its rich subtropical flora, is also worth a visit. The church of Santa Maria del Sasso is truly remarkable from an artistic, cultural and architectural point of view.