Landscapes Spread-out before your Eyes: Four Places to See Lake Como from above

The poets Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger, composers Richard Wagner, Franz Liszt, and Giuseppe Verdi were all inspired by the beauty of Lake Como. Many centuries later this place still maintains its allure of incredible natural beauty which is better to contemplate from above. Read more about the most convenient viewing points in the article.

Cable Railway in Brunate, Lake Como

The small town of Brunate is located at a height of about 488 m—a great spot to view the lake. The first thing you notice is the countless number of villas dotting the hillside. You can get to the city by the cable railway which was opened in 1894.

In just 7 minutes, passengers are carried to the viewing deck where you can view Lake Como, adjacent cities, and, in good weather, even Milan, Turin, and neighboring Switzerland.

Monte Bisbino Peak in Cernobbio

Monte Bisbino mountain is located above the city of Cernobbio. This is the starting point of the famous cycling and walking route “Via dei Monti Lariani” 125 km long. The trail is divided into four parts: Cernobbio — Val d’Intelvi (28 km); Val d’Intelvi — Val Menaggio (26 km); Val Menaggio — Valle Albano (24 km); Valle Albano — Sorico (46 km).

Covering the entire route will take more than a day, but during this time you can visit many villages and enjoy their unspoiled nature and authentic atmosphere.

Church of Madonna del Ghisallo in Magrelo

The village of Magrelo became popular thanks to the church of Madonna del Ghisallo, who is considered the patroness of cyclists. The building dates back to the 17th century and houses the preserved ancient icon of the Madonna del Ghisallo, who in 1946 was proclaimed the protector of cyclists. It is therefore not surprising that every year professional athletes visit this place, and thousands of tourists come to see the beautiful views and the Cycling Museum.

Castello di Vezio near Varenna

Castello di Vezio is more than a thousand years old. It was built to house people controlling the lake and protect the adjacent cities from the Queen of the Lombards Teodolinda. The square watchtower, Bascule Bridge, and fortress walls (with angle towers leading to the city of Varenna) have been preserved until modern day. 

Here you can take the best photos of Lake Como views as well as look at works of art, visit real dungeons and find out many interesting things about falconry.

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