Lake Lugano

A glacial lake called Lake Lugano lies on the boundary of southern Switzerland and northern Italy. Due to historical and geographic anomalies, only a small, isolated portion of Lake Lugano, towards the center, is in Switzerland; the rest is in the Italian-speaking Ticino area. The only significant settlements are Lugano in Switzerland and Porlezza in the far eastern end of Italy, except for the few villages that cling to its shore. Another area of the lake's coastline is rocky, vertical, and heavily forested, giving it a tranquil, untamed sense that is complemented by the gorgeous mountains that provide the lake's backdrop.

Drive from Menaggio to Porlezza at the Italian end of Lake Lugano to access the lake, or for a genuine adventure, traverse the network of mountain roads from Argegno on Lake Como to Osteno on Lake Lugano. You don't need to go back because a road leads directly from here to Porlezza along the lakefront. You'll cross the Grotte di Rescia caverns as you walk down the beach.

Porlezza is a well-liked destination for families because of its swimming beach and a good selection of campers. You can rent boats in Cima, close to Porlezza, to tour the lake on your own, or you can take one of the well-liked steamers from Lugano.

Location: Ticino, Lombardy, Italy