What to do in Ortanella

Straddling the border between Switzerland and Italy, Lake Lugano offers the best of both countries. Enjoy its year-round Mediterranean climate and sparkling blue waters while majestic snowcapped mountains beckon in the distance.

Villa del Balbianello is set in a commanding location on the edge of a wooded promontory that juts out from the coastline. Stroll around the handsome building befitting this striking setting and find well-landscaped gardens and an interesting museum.

The Funicular Como-Brunate is an historic funicular railway that connects the lakeside town of Como with the pretty alpine village of Brunate. Admire sweeping views of Lake Como and rugged hills as you climb, and then traverse the countryside surrounding Brunate.

Villa Olmo is a magnificent late 18th-century neoclassical mansion overlooking the southwestern arm of Lake Como. Today, the former home of aristocrats and the wealthy elite is now a venue for important art exhibitions and other cultural activities. See works by great European artists and then enjoy a stroll through its beautiful baroque garden.

Elegant and animated Piazza Cavour is Como’s main square and a focal point of the city’s historic center. It is a place to enjoy views of Lake Como and its surrounding hills, to admire striking architecture and to be part of festivals and cultural events.