The path to Castello starts directly from the Retreat. A two-hour panoramic walk along a small path halfway up the hill takes you to the ancient medieval village of Castello, so called because of the presence of an ancient castle that was later destroyed.

The houses, rebuilt between the 16th and 19th centuries, are arranged in a semicircle, creating a maze of narrow streets and stairways that offer splendid interior views.

The village, which can only be reached on foot, is perched on a rocky spur and enjoys a priceless view of Lake Ceresio (the Italian name for Lake Lugano).