You’ll find some truly incredible spots around Lake Como, and I discovered Castello Baradello on a visit to the town of Como itself. It’s set on a hill overlooking the town and the lake, offering a fantastic perspective you might miss if you just stick to the lakeside paths. It was such a clear day when we went, and Lily pointed out little boats on the water – she loves anything that moves!
Views from Above
Castello Baradello
While many people visit the town of Como for its historic buildings and lakefront walks, the Castello Baradello is often overlooked. It’s an easy walk uphill from the town center, and the best part is that it’s free to enter. From the castle grounds, you get these amazing, sweeping views of Como spread out below, with the vast expanse of Lake Como stretching out behind it. It’s a perfect spot for photos, and you can really get a sense of how the town is situated right on the edge of the water.
We spent a good hour just taking in the scenery. Michael found some old stones that intrigued him, and Ethan was fascinated by the old walls, pretending he was a knight. It felt like stepping back in time, but with a modern twist of enjoying the contemporary view.
Mountain Vistas
Pigra Village
Beyond the popular lakeside towns, there are many smaller villages tucked away in the mountains surrounding Lake Como. Pigra is one of those special places. You can reach it from Argegno using a cable car, and the journey itself offers incredible views. Once you arrive in Pigra, which has only about 250 residents, the panoramic sights of the lake are immediately apparent. The higher you walk up in the village, the more stunning the views become. It’s a peaceful escape from the busier tourist areas.
Taking the cable car up with the kids was an adventure. Lily gasped when she saw how high we were going, and Ethan kept pointing at the tiny houses below. We had a simple picnic lunch from a local shop, and just sat on a bench, soaking in the quiet beauty and the amazing scenery that stretched out forever.
Brunate
Brunate is known as the “balcony of the Prealps” for a good reason. It sits above the town of Como on a plateau, and from here, you get a unique vantage point looking down on Lake Como. You can take a funicular from Como up to Brunate, and it’s a worthwhile trip. The panoramic views are expansive, showcasing the lake and the surrounding mountains from a completely different angle. It’s a place where you feel on top of the world.
We loved the funicular ride; it felt like a little train adventure for the kids. Once up in Brunate, the views were just breathtaking. We found a small cafe and enjoyed some gelato while watching the boats on the lake. Michael was talking about how the light changes the colors of the water throughout the day.
Monte San Primo
For those seeking a truly high-altitude perspective, hiking Monte San Primo offers an unforgettable experience. It’s a more challenging option, but the rewards are immense. The mountain stands at 1,682 meters above the water, and from its summit, you get a complete 360-degree view of Lake Como and the Alps. On a clear day, you might even be able to see the distant skyscrapers of Milan. The hike itself is considered fairly easy, making it accessible for many.
This was a more ambitious outing, and I decided to stay back with Ethan, who was a bit too young for the longer hike. Michael and Lily, however, went for it. Lily sent me pictures, and she looked so proud standing at the top. Michael said it was one of the most beautiful views he’d ever seen, and he loved how quiet it was up there, except for the wind.
Charming Lakeside Towns
Villa Monastero (Varenna)
The village of Varenna is charming in itself, but Villa Monastero stands out as a particularly scenic spot. While the villa offers a museum and accommodation, its true highlight is the botanical garden. This garden is built on terraces that descend all the way to the lake’s shore, filled with an impressive collection of exotic trees and rare plants. The walk through the gardens provides stunning views of Lake Como at every turn.
We spent a lovely afternoon exploring the gardens at Villa Monastero. Lily was fascinated by all the different flowers and plants, and I kept pausing to take photos. It’s so peaceful there, with the scent of the flowers and the gentle sound of the water. It felt like a hidden oasis.
Nesso
Nesso is one of those small, incredibly scenic towns that often flies under the radar. It’s located between Como and Bellagio and is uniquely split by a gorge. The most famous feature is the Orrido di Nesso, where two rivers meet to create a beautiful waterfall cascading into the lake. The town itself is a maze of narrow, cobbled streets and rocky steps, as there are very few roads. It offers a quieter, more authentic glimpse into village life.
Wandering through Nesso felt like stepping into a postcard. The waterfall is quite dramatic, and the whole atmosphere is very tranquil. We had to be careful with Ethan on the steps, but it was worth the effort to see this unique spot. It’s much less crowded than some of the bigger towns, which was lovely.
Villa Del Balbianello (Lenno)
Villa Del Balbianello, located on a promontory in Lenno, looks like something out of a fairytale. This 18th-century mansion has been a retreat for writers and artists, drawn to its romantic setting overlooking Lake Como. The villa features terrace gardens filled with trees, vines climbing the loggias, and every angle offers beautiful views of the sparkling lake. It’s a truly picturesque location that has even been used as a filming location for movies.
Visiting Villa Del Balbianello was a highlight for me. The architecture is stunning, and the gardens are beautifully maintained. Michael enjoyed learning about its history, and Lily loved running (carefully!) through the grounds. The way the villa seems to rise directly from the water is incredibly beautiful, and it’s easy to see why it’s so famous.
Bellagio
Bellagio, situated where Lake Como branches into two, perfectly embodies the classic Italian lakeside town. Its promenade runs along the lake, colorful houses line the streets, and lively piazzas offer spaces to enjoy aperitifs and gelato. The narrow alleyways often provide glimpses of the blue water below. Arriving by boat adds to the experience, and it’s a wonderful place to spend a day exploring, dining, and shopping.
We took a boat to Bellagio, which was an exciting journey for the children. The town itself is as charming as you’d imagine. We enjoyed a leisurely lunch at a trattoria, watching the world go by. Ethan insisted on trying every gelato flavor, and Lily was captivated by the little shops filled with local crafts. It’s a town that invites you to slow down and savor the moment.
Natural Wonders
Orrido Di Bellano
While Lake Como itself is the main draw, the region offers other natural wonders. The Orrido Di Bellano is a 15-million-year-old gorge with dark ravines, caves, and waterfalls located in the town of Bellano. You can explore it via a system of wooden footbridges that hang along the gorge walls and over the emerald water. The constant roar of the water echoing through the gorge is its defining sound.
This was a truly unique experience! Walking along the slippery wooden bridges over the churning water was thrilling. The sheer power of the waterfalls and the dramatic rock formations were incredible. It’s a place that makes you feel very small in the face of nature’s forces. The kids were both amazed and a little awestruck by the noise and the spray.
Belvedere Of Parco Valentino (Lecco)
The Belvedere of Parco Valentino in Lecco offers another spectacular viewpoint. Starting as a lush park filled with trees, it eventually leads to a walkway that juts out high above Lake Como. This “belvedere” provides expansive views of the lake from a considerable height, offering a different perspective than what you get from the towns themselves.
We made the hike up through the park, and when we reached the belvedere, the view was breathtaking. It felt like we were standing on the edge of the world, looking down at the vast blue of Lake Como. It’s a stunning spot for anyone who appreciates a commanding view, and it was a lovely way to end our trip, seeing the lake from such a dramatic vantage point.
I hope sharing these spots helps you plan your own wonderful journey to Lake Como. It’s a place with so much beauty and so many different kinds of experiences to offer, whether you’re seeking mountain adventures or quiet lakeside strolls.