Cardada (Above Locarno)

Just a quick ride above Locarno, Cardada is where lake views, mountain air, and kid-friendly activities all come together. It’s one of the easiest ways for families to swap palm trees for alpine meadows without a long journey.

• Getting there: Drive, or take the funicular from Locarno to Orselina, then ride the Cardada gondola up to 1,340 m. From here you can continue even higher with the chairlift to Cimetta.

• What to do with kids:

  • Play at the Noah’s Ark Playground, a big wooden ark with slides and climbing areas.

  • Walk the Panorama Trail, a short, stroller-friendly loop with views over Lake Maggiore.

  • Take the chairlift up to Cimetta for the 360° viewpoint where you can see Switzerland’s lowest point (Lake Maggiore) and highest point (Dufourspitze) at the same time.

• Other highlights: A skywalk viewing platform, family-friendly hikes, and plenty of picnic spots.

• Best for: Families who want a mix of easy adventure, incredible views, and things to keep kids entertained without committing to a long mountain trek.

👉 Cardada is the kind of place where you can make a full day out of simple joys—playgrounds, gondola rides, short walks, and panoramic views.