Lanzo and the Sighignola

Suitable for both walkers and bikers, this hike starts from Lanzo and, passing along a rather winding road built at the end of World War I as part of the construction of the Northern Frontier (the Italian defence system towards Switzerland, known as the Cadorna Line), it takes less than two hours to reach the so-called Balcony of Italy.

Part of the Lugano Pre-Alps on the Italian-Swiss border, with a gentle, wooded Italian eastern slope and a rather steep Swiss western slope, the Sighignola is 1320 metres high.

Once you reach the summit, the main attraction lies in its panoramic terrace, the Sighignola Belvedere, from which you can enjoy spectacular views that sweep from Lake Lugano to the Graubünden Alps, from Monviso to the Apennines, including several peaks from Monte Rosa and the Matterhorn. A small chapel in memory of the Alpine soldiers who fell during the Great War can also be visited at the top.
A magical moonlit view

At sunset, this place reveals all its magic. In the distance, the lights of Lugano and Campione d'Italia can be glimpsed, and when they begin to light up, they create a play of reflections and glares that punctuate the landscape like a luminous mosaic. All around, the dark outlines of the mountains tower above the still waters of Lake Lugano, reflecting the starry sky. 

The large panoramic terrace has benches to sit on and enjoy the views of the sky in silence. Bikers can also take advantage of the cool night for a relaxing break, looking upwards. And for those who love photography, the Sighignola is perfect for some night shots, with open views that combine the depth of the sky with the distant lights over the lake.