In the city of Lugano, in the canton of Ticino, Switzerland

 "Hills peep o'er hills, and Alps on Alps arise." -- Alexander Pope

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(in Switzerland) The Canton of Ticino, this country's southernmost canton, lies almost entirely south of the Alps. Through the main crest of the Gotthard and adjacent mountain ranges, it borders the canton of Valais to the northwest, the canton of Uri to the north and the canton of Grisons to the northeast. The canton shares international borders with Italy as well, including a small Italian enclave. Named after the Ticino, its longest river, it is the only canton where Italian is the sole official language and represents the bulk of the Italian-speaking area of Switzerland. Bellinzona is the capital, and Lugano (featured here) is the most important city in the canton -- known for its beautiful waterfront, steep hillsides, and gorgeous lakeside views. Lugano is a vivacious city, with posh designer boutiques, bars and pavement cafes huddling in the maze of steep cobblestone streets that lead to the edge of Lake Lugano, along its flowery promenade. Popping up above the lake are the twin peaks of Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore, both commanding astonishing views deep into the Alps and attracting lots of mountain-hikers and trail bikers -- in the warmer months of the year.