The Parco Pubblico di Brienno is a small green space overlooking the lake, in Brienno, one of the most picturesque and vertical villages on the western shore of Lake Como. Winner of a national award for public-space regeneration, the park offers a panoramic dip right across from Nesso, on the opposite shore of the lake.
The park
The public space was created through the regeneration of an old stone embankment north of the historic centre, right below the Madonna del Ronco church. A green area with a children’s playground and a sundeck leads onto a walkway and staircase that descend to a wooden pier over the water, in a spot that looks straight across to Nesso, on the opposite shore. Nearby is also one of the mine galleries dug during the First World War, a curious stop to combine with a swim in this authentic, still uncrowded corner of the Lario.
Getting there
Parking in Brienno is limited and spread across small spaces along the SS340 Regina, the road connecting Como to Argegno along the western shore: it’s best to arrive early on summer weekends, or to consider the bus from Como or, during peak periods, the ferry.
Practical information
- Swimming: the water at this spot is monitored by the Portale Acque di Balneazione (the official bathing-water quality portal) and generally classified as excellent or good.
- Parking: limited, in small spaces along the SS340 Regina — it’s best to arrive early on summer weekends or to consider the bus from Como or, during peak periods, the ferry.