Faro Voltiano

Description

What can I say about the Faro Voltiano that hasn’t already been said in a dozen travel magazines or those slick Instagram posts? Let’s just put it out there: this place, perched way above Como, has this offbeat, slightly magical vibe. It isn’t just another monument with a nice view—though, trust me, that view is a jaw-dropper. This slender lighthouse (yes, a lighthouse up in the hills!) is that kind of place where you get history and scenery in a single gulp. And let’s be honest—sometimes you just crave a spot that feels authentic, right?

The Faro Voltiano was built way back in 1927, dedicated to Alessandro Volta, the Como-born physicist who’s basically the father of the electric battery. You might say he’s the closest thing Como has to a superhero. And for history buffs, science nerds, or anyone mildly fond of electricity, this is a pilgrimage spot. But don’t worry—if your kids groan at the word “museum,” the climb up the lighthouse will win them over instantly (assuming they aren’t scared of heights).

Now, if you were expecting something flat, think again. This place asks a bit more of you. It’s up in Brunate, above Como, and yes, you’re going to need to like a bit of a hike—or at least tolerate it for a good reward. The climb is part of the fun, promise. Once you’re at the top of the lighthouse, you get an almost 360-degree panorama that’ll plant itself in your memory: Lake Como sprawling below, the city spread out like something cut from a toy train set, the Alps hulking in the background.

Honestly, even on the days when the weather isn’t crystal clear, the interplay of mist and mountains can be dramatic—almost cinematic. And hey, I’ve been there when an actual thunderstorm rolled through…let’s just say Volta would have loved the atmosphere.

For those traveling with kids, it’s a blast—a little bit of adventure, a little bit of science, and a whole lot of running around. If you’ve got mobility concerns or if steps just aren’t your thing, do note: the entrance is not wheelchair accessible and the path up can be steep. But if you can handle a little effort, the rewards genuinely outweigh the challenge. And that’s me, someone who generally prefers a gelato break to cardio.

Key Features

• Historic lighthouse built in 1927, honoring physicist Alessandro Volta (locals really do adore him)
• Offers astounding panoramic views—Lake Como, Alps, and (on a clear day) even out to Milan
• Funicular railway is part of the adventure—getting there is half the fun!
• Great photo ops all along the way and especially from the top deck (I dare you to take a bad photo)
• Spiral staircase inside is narrow and steep, but totally worth the climb for the view at the summit
• Family-friendly vibe; kids will love the winding stairs and open terrace
• Small fee for entry, so bring a few euros—it’s typically under ten for adults and even less for kids
• Unique opportunity to learn about Volta’s scientific legacy with accessible displays (though not too heavy on the science jargon)
• Surrounded by walking paths, so you can combine your visit with a gentle (or ambitious!) hike in Brunate
• Charming local cafés nearby to refuel after your visit—try the regional pastries if you can!

Best Time to Visit

So, here’s the inside scoop: plan for late spring or early autumn if you want the absolute best shot at clear skies and minimal crowds. May and September are my favorites. Summer gets busy, which makes every café feel like a festival, but also means waiting in line (especially for the funicular). If you don’t mind some company and a lively atmosphere, July and August are still a solid bet.

Morning visits are gold if you want to avoid heat and get those pastel skies—plus, you’ll probably have the place (almost) to yourself. Sunsets here are another level. Picture this: sun melting behind the Alps and the lake lighting up in all the right hues. But be warned—sunset means crowds, so it takes a little patience and a bit of nudging for the perfect shot.

And quick word to the wise—check opening hours, as the lighthouse isn’t open year-round and sometimes closes for maintenance or during wilder weather. Winters are chilly and the wind bites through any jacket you thought was “enough,” but the lucky few who go in the off-season get mystical, moody landscapes with that soft winter light.

How to Get There

I’ll be honest: arriving at Faro Voltiano is half the adventure. Start by hitting up Como city center. From there, you catch the Brunate funicular—this is not the time to skip public transit, because this train is part of the old European charm. It zigzags up the side of the mountain in just a few minutes, and you get those escalating views that are a trip themselves.

Once you’re in Brunate, follow the posted signs to Faro Voltiano. The walk is about 20-30 minutes (depending on how often your group stops to gawk at the view or snap photos). It’s uphill, for sure, but treat it like a slow ramble, and it’s entirely doable for most. I’d compare it to one of those classic movie moments where people walk up winding roads, turning corners to reveal new vistas each time.

Driving up? Brunate does allow for car access, but parking is quirky—think narrow lanes, few spots, and the kind of “Italian parking” you’ll be telling friends about back home. My advice? Park in Como if possible, enjoy the funicular, and walk. If you’re lugging picnic baskets or little ones, a taxi is another doable workaround to get close to the lighthouse trail, but you’ll still do some walking.

Tips for Visiting

– Dress like you mean business. I’m talking comfortable shoes: sneakers, hiking sandals—whatever keeps your feet happy. Those steps inside the lighthouse are not friendly to high heels or flip-flops.

– Bring water and maybe a snack. There’s a café nearby, but if you’re unlucky with timing, you might want your own little stash, especially for kids who seem to get hungry the minute there’s uphill walking.

– Don’t forget your camera or a fully charged phone! The photo potential here is immense; even if your photography is more “enthusiastic amateur” than “pro,” you’ll go home with shots that look postcard-perfect.

– Keep an eye on the weather forecast. The lighthouse closes during storms, and even if it stays open, fog can snatch the view away in a blink. If you’re rolling the dice with mountain weather, always have a layer or two.

– Got little adventurers? The steps up and the terrace at the top are safe, but always keep an eye—especially with excited kids who move faster than adults can blink.

– The entry fee is modest, but cash is still king in some small Italian locations—don’t assume cards are accepted everywhere up in Brunate.

– If you’re nervous about heights, consider that the spiral staircase is pretty narrow and there’s a fair bit of climbing. But, if you take it slow, you can absolutely manage—it’s not Everest, after all.

– End your visit with a stroll along the surrounding woodland paths. I once stumbled on a tiny meadow where wildflowers just exploded in color—it felt like a secret slice of the Alps, all to myself.

– Absolutely try the pastries in Brunate post-visit. Not an official tip, more like a life commandment: you walked all that way, you’ve earned it.

All said, Faro Voltiano isn’t just another tourist tick-box. It’s that kind of place that feels like a reward: a blend of science, legends, and unfiltered beauty perched high above one of the most romantic lakes in Italy. If you’re after a little adventure mixed with a dash of history and a camera roll full of wow—don’t skip it. You might find, like I did, that it’s the offbeat destinations that end up as the best stories you tell back home.

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