Brunate sits above Lake Como and offers a compact mix of views, walks and a historic estate. This guide walks you through each activity so you can enjoy the village without missing a beat.
Table of Contents
- Step 1: Arrive by Funicular and Start in Brunate
- Step 2: Walk from Brunate to the Lighthouse
- Step 3: Follow the Sentiero Alda Merini
- Step 4: Plan the Pace of Your Brunate Visit
- Step 5: Choose a Brunate Stay That Fits Your Plans
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Step 1: Arrive by Funicular and Start in Brunate
The railway climbs from Como to Brunate in about seven minutes. Tickets cost a few euros and can be bought at the lower station kiosk. Information about the route is available on this page.
When you step off at the upper platform, you are already in the village center. The station area holds a small café where you can sip water or coffee before heading toward the main promenade. Keep an eye on the posted timetable; the last car returns just after ten at night, which gives you plenty of daylight for the walks that follow.
For a deeper look at ticket options and exact departure times, see this guide.
Key Takeaway: The funicular delivers you to Brunate quickly, leaving most of the day free for exploring.
Step 2: Walk from Brunate to the Lighthouse
The lighthouse, known locally as Faro Voltiano, sits a short walk from the village center. Follow the signs that lead uphill past the historic villas; the path is well-marked and takes about thirty minutes each way.
The route offers glimpses of the surrounding hills and, on clear days, the distant peaks of Switzerland. The walk is gentle enough for most visitors, but wear sturdy shoes because some sections are cobbled.
For additional information, read this guide.
Pro Tip: Start the lighthouse walk early in the morning to avoid the midday crowd and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Step 3: Follow the Sentiero Alda Merini
The Sentiero Alda Merini is a marked footpath that links Como to Brunate. It was renamed to honor the Milanese poet who loved the area. The trail is not difficult and most hikers finish it in ninety minutes to two hours.
Along the way you will find wooden boards displaying excerpts from Merini’s poems and occasional Little Free Libraries. The gentle climb winds through beech forest and opens onto clearings with panoramic views of the valley.
More details about the trail are available at this trail reference.
Step 4: Plan the Pace of Your Brunate Visit
Most activities in Brunate last under an hour, so you can fit several into a single day. Start with the funicular, then walk to the lighthouse, and finish with the Sentiero Alda Merini if you have energy left.
Consider the time of year. Summer can bring heat and larger crowds, while spring offers milder weather and blooming flowers. Early autumn provides crisp air and fewer tourists.
Build in short rests at the village cafés. A quick espresso or a glass of water will keep you hydrated, especially if you plan to hike the trail.
If you prefer a slower pace, allocate a full morning to the lighthouse walk and save the Sentiero for the afternoon when the light is softer.
Step 5: Choose a Brunate Stay That Fits Your Plans
Relais Villino Rubini is the sole overnight option in Brunate. The estate, built in 1892, offers ten Art Nouveau rooms across three buildings and can host up to nineteen guests. Amenities include a heated pool, spa, sauna, gym, and gardens that seat one hundred guests outdoors for dinner.
Breakfast is included, and a private shuttle can take you to the funicular station. The estate is ideal for couples, families, small weddings or corporate retreats.
To learn how to book a room or arrange a private hire, see booking information.
Key Takeaway: Villino Rubini provides a comfortable base that lets you experience Brunate’s short walks without worrying about logistics.
FAQ
What is the best way to reach Brunate from Como?
The funicular reaches the village in seven minutes.
How long does the lighthouse walk take?
The walk to Faro Voltiano typically takes approximately one hour.
Is the Sentiero Alda Merini suitable for families?
The trail is not that difficult and usually takes between ninety minutes and two hours.
Can I stay overnight in Brunate?
Relais Villino Rubini offers overnight accommodation, with ten rooms, a heated pool and outdoor dining under a tent in the gardens for up to one hundred seated guests.
Do I need to book the funicular in advance?
Conclusion
Start with the funicular, walk to the lighthouse, follow the Sentiero Alda Merini, and end your day at Villino Rubini for a relaxed night. Book your stay at the estate and enjoy a smooth Brunate experience.
Occasional stories from the estate, sent a few times a year at most.