Its origins date back to the Middle Ages, and its charm has been maintained and passed down through the centuries.
The lush subtropical vegetation, its location between the lake and mountains, the enchanting landscapes, the small cobblestone alleys, and the prestigious architectural monuments made this picturesque village voted the most beautiful village in Switzerland in 2016.
The shore of Lake Lugano is lined with numerous imposing buildings such as Palazzo Paleari, lakeside cafes, and a multitude of flowering trees. The arcades of the patrician houses located here are a true spectacle for the eyes.
They were built from noble stones and columns recovered from ancient houses abandoned during the 1300-1500 period. Behind them, narrow and winding streets invite you to be carried away by the charm of this place.
From the heart of the village starts the largest staircase in the pre-Alpine region. It has 404 steps and offers one of the most spectacular views in the area. Flowers, Mediterranean plants, and rows of cypress trees border the steps. At its end, you are greeted by the Church of Santa Maria del Sasso.
From the church, the views over Lake Lugano and the surrounding villages are amazing, as are the 16th-century frescoes inside. Another special attraction of this village is the Scherrer Park. Its gardens take you on a journey through time and space, where past and present intertwine in perfect harmony.
The slopes and terraces are covered with cypresses, camphor, camellias, eucalyptus, cedars, palm trees, and bamboo forests. Amidst this lush subtropical vegetation, reminiscent of the exoticism of distant lands, you will encounter architectural and artistic works inspired by various cultures, such as a Siamese-inspired tea house, Greek sculptures, and an Egyptian temple.
Lake Lugano has a beautiful color, and a cruise along it offers a different perspective of the area. So before leaving the village, I recommend a boat ride. Morcote is a small locality, but even so, you need a few hours to discover it and enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the restaurants on the shores of Lake Lugano.
Monte Brè, the sunniest mountain in Switzerland
With the desire to experience the overwhelming beauty of Monte Brè that day, after leaving Morcote, we set off on a short car journey to Lugano. From there, we would begin the ascent to the sunniest mountain in Switzerland.
Monte Brè greeted me with many viewpoints offering spectacular views of the Pennine and Bernese Alps, Lugano, and the lake. With my gaze, I spanned the distances to the peak of Monte Rosa and the Maritime Alps in Italy.
How to get to Morcote
Morcote is located about 70 kilometers from Milan. From there, with a rented car, we arrived in an hour.
Thank you for reading and make sure to subscribe. We're constantly exploring new destinations and share our stories, tips, and the beauty we discover along the way.