The view from the 'balcony of the Alps'
Since 1894 a funicular has climbed from the lakeside of Como to the village of Brunate, at about 700 metres, in just seven minutes, along a steep track through woods and villas. At the time it was a technological marvel; today it is one of the most popular excursions in the area, used by both tourists and residents.
Brunate is called the "balcony of the Alps": from its viewpoints the panorama sweeps over the city of Como, the first basin of the lake and, on clear days, the chain of the Alps from Monte Rosa to the Matterhorn and the plain of Lombardy as far as Milan. The village is full of Liberty-style villas built in the early twentieth century by the Milanese bourgeoisie. A short walk leads to the Faro Voltiano, a lighthouse built in 1927 for the centenary of Alessandro Volta's death, whose tricolour light can be seen from afar; climbing its 143 steps you get an even wider view. Paths continue along the ridge towards the Monte Boletto and Monte Bolettone.
Tip: the funicular leaves from Piazza De Gasperi, a short walk from the centre; walk back down along the old mule track to Como if you have good shoes.
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