For a lovely day hike in Ticino, consider your next route to the peak of Monte Boglia. It can be hiked all year round, which we decided to hike this peak during the Summer. With an elevation of 1516m, Monte Boglia is a popular hiking route among locals and tourists alike. On a clear day, you have outstanding views of both the Ticino canton of Switzerland and Italy to the East of Lugano.
We personally suggest this hike for those who have a good level of fitness based on the 800m elevation climb from Monte Brè.
The Route Up To Monte Boglia
We decided to hike this route on a Summer’s day. As you can see from our photos we had the perfect sunny weather for enjoying the hike with. We started around 10am so that we would reach the peak by lunch time.
We decided to take the route up starting at the village of Monte Brè and following the designated path to the right going up. This route is with a steeper elevation up which we wanted to tackle first. Along the route you first start from the village and head into the forest area above. Following the path takes you further to a steep rocky climb followed by the dirt pathway.
This rocky climb area was a little challenging, where I definitely needed to take my time up! But in no time we were past that point. We saw others also at this point easily going up as well as with dogs, so it depends on your level of fitness.
Tip: On this route up we didn’t spot any water points, so make sure to have enough water with you for hiking.
The Peak Of Monte Boglia
Reaching the top peak is always satisfying with a hike. There were a few others up there by the time we reached it. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy the most amazing views with a bite to eat. We had lunch with us, and sat for ages on one of the benches!
From our photos, you can see Lake Lugano clearly from the top at multiple angles, with its unique shape around the landscape.
The views include also looking towards Italy to the East. Such as the photo of us sat on the bench, with Italy in the distance.
There is a cross at the top as well as an information board showing all the peaks you can spot in the distance.
The Route Down
For the way down, you can choose to take the same route back, or to take a few different ways back. We decided to take the route shared below in the photo. This was a leisurely route back down via the forest and nature. The route down was also enjoyed by a few mountain bikers during our visit.
The elevation going down was not as steep as coming up at the rocky part, so this was more enjoyable for the knees! It’s also more suitable to take the left side route with children through the forest with more of a slope than a climb.
Despite it being Summer, the forest route had Autumn vibes with lots of leaves and vegetation on the ground. Was a nice mix for the hiking route! We didn’t spot any wild animals, but we’re sure there are often deer and squirrels here.
There are also water points to get fresh water on the way down, where we filled up our bottles at these points!
Monte Boglia Hike Information
You start at Monte Brè which is 925m elevation and you climb around 800m to reach Monte Boglia at 1516m.
There is paid parking at the village of Monte Brè, which can be limited during the Summer. You can consider taking the local bus 12 from Lugano bus station to the village of Monte Brè.
Average time to hike this round route is 5 hours and 17 minutes (without stops!).
The length of route is 12.2km.
You can of course consider to go back the way you came up or a shorter route down, with a few shorter paths to choose from. You can also make the hiking route to maximum 4 hours (2 up and 2 down). So this depends on what you prefer and how enjoyable you find the hiking route.
If you want to make the hike more challenging, you could even consider starting in Lugano instead of from Monte Bre. Or to hike even further from the peak of Monte Boglia northwards and then down into the valley.
We have a fully-loaded, high content Ticino Guide listing local things to see, do and explore with each season: Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter.
CLICK HERE
Our Ticino Hiking Tips
Make sure you have plenty of drink and snacks with you.
Dress appropriately for the weather and expected weather throughout your hike.
Take suncream, sunglasses or waterproof gear depending on weather too!
Make sure your camera/phone is fully charged before you start, or take a power bank with you to stay connected. As well as to take all those stunning photos!
Interested In More Hikes In Ticino? Check these!
Capanna Monte Bar: A Night In The Mountains At 1602m
Piora Valley: Lago Ritom, via Lago di Tom to Lago Cadagno Lakes!
Hiking Monte Generoso At 1,704m
Monte San Salvatore Highlights
Monte Tamaro Explorations At 1962m
Exploring Cimetta: A Funicular, Chairlift and Ski lift to the top!
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