Hike & Beer: beer tasting & breathtaking views at sunset

If you’re looking for a way to see Lake Como from a different angle—beyond the famous lakeside towns—this Hike & Beer tour might just be your perfect match. It’s an adventure that combines breathtaking views with a taste of local craftsmanship, designed for those who enjoy a bit of outdoor activity paired with good food and drink. While it’s not a full-day excursion or a luxurious cruise, it offers a relaxed, friendly way to soak up the landscape and flavors of this stunning region.

What makes this experience stand out? First, we love how it blends nature and local culture—hiking through scenic trails while enjoying craft beer at sunset creates a memorable, personalized moment. Second, the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the entire journey feel warm and genuine. That said, it’s important to note that this tour is geared towards moderately fit hikers and beer lovers, so if you’re not comfortable on uneven terrain or don’t drink alcohol, it might not be ideal.

One thing to consider is that the price point ($184.22 per person) could seem steep for some, especially since additional expenses like extra food or transport aren’t included. However, for those who value quality guides, beautiful vistas, and a unique pairing of hiking and tasting, many find it to be a worthwhile splurge. This tour especially appeals to travelers who want a less crowded, more authentic experience away from the busy lakeshore.

Overall, if you’re after a relaxed yet scenic adventure that combines outdoor activity, local flavors, and sunset views, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suited for outdoor enthusiasts, beer lovers, and those keen to discover Lake Como from a new perspective.

Key Points

• Scenic hiking trail above Lecco offers stunning views of Lake Como.
• Craft beer tasting with local appetizers at a boutique brewery.
• Sunset lookout provides a peaceful setting to enjoy your beer away from crowds.
• Guides are attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly, making the experience more engaging.
• The tour is moderate in duration (4-5 hours), making it a manageable half-day activity.
• It’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels who enjoy outdoor pursuits and good food.

Exploring Lake Como in a Different Light: What to Expect

Starting Point and the Trail

The adventure begins at Edicola Ponte Vecchio in Lecco, where you meet your guide and gather your supplies. From there, you head straight into Parco Monte Barro, a popular hiking spot that offers stunning views over Lecco and the eastern side of Lake Como.

The trail itself is described as scenic and peaceful, with many reviewers highlighting the flora and local landmarks pointed out by guides along the way. The hike lasts about three hours, and while it’s not overly strenuous, you should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain. The emphasis is on enjoying the environment, not on technical difficulty.

The Brewery Experience

After the hike, the group makes a short drive or walk to Birrificio Herba Monstrum, a well-regarded microbrewery. Here, you’ll taste local craft beers paired with small appetizers, which adds a flavorful touch to the experience. The choice of beer is yours to select for enjoying at the lookout later. Many guests appreciate the friendly atmosphere and expert guidance from the brewery staff, making it a highlight of the tour.

One reviewer noted, “Gabriele and Isabella curated a nice experience at the brewery and led a good hike, pointing out flora and history along the way.” These guides seem to bring not just local knowledge but also warmth, helping guests feel more connected to the region.

Sunset and Mountain Lookout

The best part? The sunset over Lake Como. After tasting your beer, you’ll climb to a lookout point overlooking Monte Resegone. From here, you can see the changing colors of the sky as the sun dips, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. The quietness of this spot allows you to unwind and savor the beauty of the landscape with your drink in hand.

From the lookout, you’ll have a clear view of Lecco’s lush surroundings. The experience of watching the sunset over the lake from a peaceful mountain top is genuinely special—and many reviews mention how serene and beautiful this moment is.

Ending at Lake Como

The tour concludes back at the initial meeting point, giving you a chance to reflect on your day. Some guests choose to take advantage of the discount voucher for dinner offered after the tour, which makes for a convenient finish to your lakeside day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This experience provides a local and professional mountain guide, a beer tasting at the brewery with local appetizers, and a dinner discount voucher—handy if you want to extend your culinary exploration later. Plus, you get to take one bottle of beer of your choice with you on the hike, a nice touch for enjoying the sunset.

However, extra food and drinks outside what’s provided are not included, and transport from your accommodation needs to be arranged separately—something to consider if you’re staying outside Lecco. The tour is limited to 16 participants, which helps keep the group friendly and manageable.

Timing and Practical Tips

Starting at 6:00 pm, the timing aligns perfectly with sunset, which varies throughout the year. Be sure to wear comfortable, sporty clothes and trekking shoes—the guides are strict about suitable footwear to ensure safety. Also, bring water with you, especially if the weather is warm or the walk is longer than expected.

The Real Deal: What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews, although limited, give us some insight. One guest called it “an experience made extra special by Gabriele, Isabella, and Marco,” highlighting the personal touch and knowledge of the guides. Another review emphasized the stunning views and nice blend of hike and tasting.

Many appreciated the less crowded lakeshore experience, finding it a peaceful alternative to busy tourist spots. The guides’ local expertise and friendly attitude seem to be recurring themes that elevate the experience beyond just a walk and a drink.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This Hike & Beer experience is a great pick for those who love the outdoors and appreciate good craft beer. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed, scenic outing that combines nature, local flavors, and sunset views. While it’s not a rigorous trek or a luxury experience, it offers authenticity and personal touches that can make your time in Lake Como truly memorable.

If you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even solo but enjoy meeting new people, this tour has a friendly, welcoming vibe. It’s also a good choice for adventurous foodies who want to add a unique, flavorful element to their lakeside visit.

However, if you prefer a more structured, less physically demanding activity or aren’t a fan of alcohol, this might not be the best fit. The price may seem high for some, especially since extra expenses aren’t included, but the quality of guides, views, and local experience justifies it for many.

In the end, this tour offers a genuine opportunity to see Lake Como from a different angle—high above the lakeshore—and to enjoy a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s a thoughtful way to combine outdoor activity with cultural tasting and a peaceful sunset.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This experience is geared towards hikers and beer enthusiasts. It’s not explicitly family-friendly, especially considering the moderate physical fitness level and alcohol tasting involved. Children might enjoy the views, but the tour is best suited for adults.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, sporty clothes and sturdy trekking shoes, as the trail can be uneven. Don’t forget a windproof jacket if the weather looks unstable, and bring water to stay hydrated.

Does the tour include transportation?
Transportation from your accommodation isn’t included but can be requested for an extra fee. The meeting point is at Edicola Ponte Vecchio in Lecco.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 4 to 5 hours, starting at 6:00 pm, perfect for a late afternoon and sunset.

What is included in the price?
You get a professional mountain guide, a craft-beer tasting with appetizers at the brewery, a discount voucher for dinner, and one bottle of beer to take with you.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

If you’re after a mix of nature, local culture, and sunset views in Lake Como, this Hike & Beer experience offers a relaxed yet engaging way to spend an evening. Just pack your sense of adventure, comfy shoes, and a love for good beer—and you’re set for a memorable lakeside outing.