Sentiero dell'Olivo from Castagnola to Gandria

The tour connects two very different parts of Lugano’s eastern shore. From the San Domenico parking lot in Castagnola, we first climb through residential neighborhoods and narrow alleys on the slope of Monte Brè, reaching Parco San Michele with its chapel, the rustico, and several stone sculptures. From the panoramic terrace, the view stretches across the Gulf of Lugano all the way to Monte San Salvatore. Above the park, the trail continues a short distance further up the hillside before descending toward Gandria. The former fishing village, with its narrow alleys and terraces, clings directly above the water; the parish church of San Vigilio stands along the way. The return route follows the Sentiero dell’Olivo right along the shore. Several information panels explain the history and cultivation of olives, as well as the geological and archaeological features of the area.