This winter, Monte San Salvatore is once again a key destination for those wishing to discover the Lugano area from an unusual perspective, that of the colder months. For the seventh consecutive year, the funicular railway from Lugano Paradiso to the summit will remain operational in winter, strengthening an initiative that has attracted a growing audience and contributed to the deseasonalization of tourism.
After the technical break in November, the new iconic red cable cars will officially return to service on Saturday, December 6th , connecting the city with one of the most evocative panoramic points in the Canton. Until March 8th , the connection will be active every Saturday and Sunday , every 30 minutes, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm . The timetable will be extended during the holiday periods: from December 20th to January 6th and from February 14th to 22nd , the funicular will operate every day , without interruption.
A winter to be experienced at the top
Those who climb San Salvatore in winter will find not only snow-covered trails and sweeping views of the lake, but also a comprehensive culinary offering thanks to the reopening of the Vetta Restaurant . The restaurant—a meeting point for hikers, families, and gourmets—will offer a warm and panoramic atmosphere, with special menus dedicated to the holidays: Christmas, Boxing Day, New Year's Eve, New Year's Eve, and Epiphany. The menus—ranging from CHF 65 to CHF 130 for the December 31st dinner—aim to transform the summit into a convivial place even in the quieter months of the year.
In addition to regular service, the restaurant also offers openings upon request for groups, anniversaries, and corporate events, as well as the possibility of using the conference spaces for meetings and professional gatherings in a particularly evocative setting.
The first event: Christmas market at high altitude
The winter calendar will kick off on Sunday, December 14th , starting at 11:00 a.m. , with a Christmas market designed to liven up the mountaintop. Stalls will feature candles, decorations , dairy products from the Ambrosini farm , as well as the ever-present roasted chestnuts. This event aims to bring the holiday atmosphere to the summit, making the funicular ride even more enjoyable.
San Salvatore, even in winter: a project that continues to grow
Opening San Salvatore in winter—initially conceived as an experiment—has evolved over the years into a stable offering, appealing to both residents and tourists. The goal remains to expand the area's use beyond the traditional summer months, focusing on sustainable, year-round tourism.
The combination of efficient public transport, catering, and small, targeted events seems to have found a loyal audience, offering the Lugano area a further opportunity to showcase its scenic heritage, even when winter arrives.
