Le Chic En Rose

Today’s post is a blast from the past going back to our first trip to Lake Como in 2009. However I thought it was worth including in the recent Como series of posts, especially if you’re staying in Como City, as the funicular (funicolare) is a great little trip to take from the town up to the village of Brunate.

The funicular entrance is conveniently situated a few minutes from Como town centre. There is an interesting display board on the station wall with some historical information  and details of the funicular workings – a good way to while away the few minutes waiting for the next ride. For timetables and tariffs head to the official website of the funicular (see here).  You can also find some interesting background information on wikipedia (see here).

Funicolare Up To Brunate

Brunate Funicolare

En Route Up To Brunate By Funicular

It was not the best day weather wise but at least the previous night’s spectacular thunderstorm had cleared away. Although only a short ride to the top (7 minutes to be precise) it seemed an eternity to Monsieur Le Chic who has an aversion to heights (it’s a pretty steep ascent). Hence I took pictures as we glided up to the top station with the buildings in the valley below now looking like Legoland.

View From Brunate Funicular

Ascent By Funicular From Como To Brunate

Brunate Funicular Station

Brunate View Of Alps

Como As Viewed From Brunate

Brunate is a sleepy little settlement perched high above Lake Como, which affords it stunning vistas of the lake, wooded valleys and Alps in the distance. We wandered round the quiet streets, had a quick look at the pretty little church but the main draw card is the viewing deck where on a fine day you can see as far as Turin and the high Alps of the Monte Rosa and Mont Blanc range.

Look Out Point Brunate

Alps In The Distance View From Brunate

Looking Down On Lake Como And Piazza Cavour From Brunate

Brunate Church

Brunate

Brunate Look Out Point

There are several little cafes and eateries catering to visitors near the funicolare terminus at Brunate. We found a nice little trattoria/pizzeria and settled down to enjoy a tasty lunch with some excellent local wine as recommended by our friendly waiter. The sun managed to come out and it was pleasantly warm sitting outside on the terrace.  Despite the persistent haze the views were still pretty impressive and must be stunning on a clearer day! Please excuse the rather foggy quality of the photos though.

Views Across To Alps From Brunate

As well as the funicular there is a steep winding road up from Lake Como to the village and it is also a starting point for several walking trails. Check the funicular return times especially in the evenings as you don’t want to find yourself stranded at the top!  Of course you can always walk up and down from Como to Brunate and back if you prefer the exercise!

Lake Como Viewed From Brunate Funicular

Brunate At The Top Of The Funicular Ride

View From The Funicular Brunate

Trattoria In Brunate

View Down To Como From The Brunate Funicolare

Copyright © 2016 Rosemary Thomas Le Chic En Rose. All rights reserved