Mount Generoso.

Monte Generoso (1,701 m) is one of the most spectacular peaks in Ticino, overlooking Lake Lugano and the border with Italy.

From its summit, a unique panorama opens up over the Alps, lakes and Po Valley, crowned by the iconic “Fiore di pietra” building designed by Mario Botta.

For cyclists, Mount Generoso is much more than a scenic peak: it is one of the toughest and most historic climbs in the region.

The road that goes up from Mendrisio to Bellavista is 10km long and climbs through the woods with an average gradient of around 8%.

Over the years, several cycling competitions have been held there, notably including the arrival of two stages of the Giro d'Italia.

• 1974: stage with summit finish, scene of a clash between Merckx, Moser and Baronchelli.

• 1989: 10.7 km time trial won by Colombian climber Luis Herrera.