Brunate and the Voltiano Lighthouse

A visit to the area around Como, with stunning views and walks

Brunate is situated on the hills overlooking Como and can be reached from the city by the historic funicular. The climb offers a change of perspective: from the lakeside, you move into the village landscape, taking in panoramic viewpoints, villas and paths that lead up into the mountains.

During a stay in Torno, you can combine a visit to Brunate with a day out in Como, or spend more time there, including a walk to San Maurizio and the Faro Voltiano.

What to see in Brunate

The village and its viewpoints

Upon arrival at the funicular station, you can begin exploring Brunate on foot, choosing a stroll through the streets and past the viewpoints. The village is home to villas and remnants of the holiday resort era spanning the 19th and 20th centuries, which line the route with architectural details worth noting.

On clear days, the views allow you to make out Como, the lake and the surrounding countryside. To fully appreciate them, do allow yourself a few stops rather than heading straight off to the next destination.

The Como–Brunate Funicular

The funicular, which opened in 1894, is one of the area’s most distinctive transport links. It departs from Piazza De Gasperi in Como and runs to Brunate, offering views of the city throughout the journey.

You can include it in your visit both as an experience and as a means of transport. Before setting off, check the timetables and any service updates, bearing in mind your return journey as well.

The Volta Lighthouse in San Maurizio

The Volta Lighthouse is situated in San Maurizio, higher up than the funicular’s upper station. It was built in 1927 to mark the centenary of Alessandro Volta’s death.

To reach it from Brunate, you’ll need to allow for a further uphill walk. Plan this part of your visit according to the time you have available and how used to walking you are.

From the funicular to the Voltiano Lighthouse

Wear comfortable shoes and allow plenty of time for the outward journey, stops and the return journey. Before setting off, consult a map of the route and check the weather conditions: visibility has a significant impact on the panoramic experience.

If you’d prefer a shorter visit, you can focus on the village and the viewing points, without including the climb up to the lighthouse.

How to get to Brunate from Torno

If you’re arriving in Como by car, find a permitted car park and allow enough time to reach the departure point. The visit to Brunate then continues on foot, choosing a route that suits your needs.

How to plan a day out between Como and Brunate

If you’d like to carry on to San Maurizio, spend more time in the higher-altitude area and cut back on your visits in the city. Always check your return times, leaving a buffer for stops and travel.

This itinerary allows you to alternate between the historic centre, the funicular ride and the scenery, without cramming too many activities into a single day.

Visit Brunate whilst staying in Torno

After your visits, you can return to a cosy flat with a view of the lake.