Brunate

Perched on the hills above Como, Brunate is a charming village known as the "balcony over the Alps" for its breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding peaks.Its history dates back to Roman times, but it was with the construction of the funicular in 1894 that the village became a renowned tourist destination. The funicular remains the preferred means of reaching the city of Como, though more active visitors can follow the hiking trails that link the village to various points in the city. Among these is the trail dedicated to the Milanese poet Alda Merini, lined with signs featuring quotes from poets of different eras, commemorating the time she spent in Brunate.Brunate also serves as a starting point for scenic hiking routes, such as the Strada Regia and the Sentiero Italia, which leads all the way to Bellagio. The village boasts a fascinating architectural heritage in the Art Nouveau style, with elegant villas built between the late 19th and early 20th centuries—testament to its past as a holiday retreat for the Lombard upper class.