Smaller than either Lake Como or Lake Maggiore, Lake Lugano rarely has a width greater than 2km and only measures 36km in length, which gives it’s a much more intimate feel. It is also different in that most of the lake lies in Switzerland, and is the only lake with a bridge over it, connecting the towns of Melide and Bisonne. Its waters at approx 290 mts are the deepest.

The main city is Lugano,  a modern and vibrant city which has retained much of its Italian culture. The main town at the eastern tip of the lake, which is all in Italy, lies Porleeza, its breathtaking setting means it has become a burgeoning tourist resort.

Other areas worth exploring, with their small, quaint villages and their many trails are the Valleys of Val Solda and Val Cavargna on the North side, and Val Intelvi on the South side of the lake.