Panoramic Viewpoints on Lake Como

Lake Como offers breathtaking views from any angle: whether you are strolling along the shores or sailing the waters in a public or rented boat, the view is rewarding. Even more fascinating is Lake Como from above: the effort to reach panoramic points often situated near mountain refuges or peaks, is absolutely repaid by the views!

We recommend those staying on Lake Como or planning to do so to include some of these viewpoints in their itinerary. The following 5 viewpoints are easily accessible and from here you can admire the majestic Lake Como and take unique photos of the most beautiful lake in the world and the surrounding landscape framing it just like on a postcard.

Brunate

Brunate is a small town easily reachable from the center of Como and home to the famous “Lighthouse” on the top of Monte Tre Croci. Brunate can be reached on foot from Como by following the path alongside the Funicular, or by the Funicular which in 7 minutes arrives at the Piazzale della Funicolare in Brunate. The first panoramic point is the Pissarottino source from which the first basin of the lake, Villa d’Este, Villa Erba and Monte Rosa can be admired. Walking uphill for about 30 minutes you will reach the lighthouse from which – on particularly clear days – you can even see the Madonnina of the Milan Cathedral.

Monte San Primo

Monte San Primo is the highest peak of the Lake Como triangle and dominates the shores of the lake and the town of Bellagio. It is located exactly between the two branches of the lake and albeit not among the highest mountains of the Alps, it offers a breathtaking panorama. Due to the particular geographical position and altitude, splendid views right on the point where the two branches of the lake meet but also on the other peaks framing the lake can be admired. Thanks to its 360° view of Lake Como, Monte San Primo is considered the most panoramic mountain in the entire Como area.

Pigra

Located above Argegno, about 700 meters above sea level, Pigra is one of the most characteristic and famous villages on the western shore of Lake Como. The cable car near the center of Argegno will take you to Pigra in a few minutes and from Pigra you can immediately enjoy a wonderful view of Lake Como and the Pre-Alps.

Rifugio of Menaggio

The Refugio of Menaggio is located at an altitude of 1,383 metres, in a panoramic position in the municipality of Plesio. This particular view point is found at the bottom of Monte Grona. Once you have parked your car in Breglia, you can reach the Refugio of Menaggio with its incredible panorama by foot in about an hour.

Castello di Vezio, Varenna

Also the eastern shore of Lake Como, the Lecco branch, offers unforgettable views. From Varenna a path leads to the Castle of Vezio on the promontory at the bottom of the Esino valley: a military outpost, more than thousand years old, and initially built for defensive purposes, it is today known for the legend of the “ghosts” that would inhabit it. The legend is also fuelled by the particular statues in the gardens of the Castle. From the Castle of Vezio the entire eastern shore of the Lario and its wonderful villages can be admired.

Stay in one of our luxury homes in a strategic position from where you can enjoy day trips around the lake and easily return home at the end of the day.