Como Brunate Torno. The Breathtaking Scenery

Imagine wandering along wooded trails above Lake Como, where every turn offers a new postcard-worthy view of shimmering water and lush hills. This guided tour, priced at $213.45 per person, lasts about 6 hours and begins with a ride on the iconic funicular from Como to Brunate. Once above the town, you’ll follow a carefully curated route toward Torno, stopping at scenic points and historical sites along the way. The experience is topped off with a lakeside lunch and a boat ride back to Como, making for a full day of natural beauty and authentic local flavor.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines easy transportation, like the funicular and boat, with the opportunity to truly connect with the landscape. The guide’s local expertise enhances the experience, helping you understand the history and environment of this stunning corner of Italy. Two standout features are the visit to Pietra Pendula, a natural region with dramatic rock formations, and the chance to enjoy lunch at a traditional hillside baita—a rustic inn serving hearty local fare.

A couple of considerations might be the moderate physical effort required, which could be challenging for some less-active travelers, and the fact that the tour is limited to 10 participants, so booking in advance is wise. But overall, this experience is ideal for those who want scenic views, local culture, and a touch of adventure — perfect for active travelers who appreciate guided insights and authentic surroundings.

• Stunning Views: Experience panoramic vistas of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains.
• Guided Comfort: Leave map reading and trail navigation to your knowledgeable guide.
• Transport Convenience: Enjoy a funicular ascent, scenic stops, and a boat ride back, all included.
• Authentic Lunch: Savor a hearty, freshly prepared meal in a hillside baita.
• Natural & Cultural Highlights: Visit Pietra Pendula and learn about local history.
• Small Group: Intimate experience with maximum 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.

The Journey Begins with the Funicular from Como to Brunate

The adventure kicks off in Piazza Alcide de Gasperi in Como, where you’ll hop aboard the funicolare di Como. This 7-minute cable car ride is more than just transportation; it’s a scenic ascent that offers views of Como’s rooftops and the lake below. The funicular’s charm lies in its old-world feel and the panoramic vantage point it provides, setting the tone for a day immersed in natural beauty. Once in Brunate, the hiking begins, guided by someone who knows the terrain inside out.

One reviewer, Alida, emphasized how the guide, Favia, made the hike both beautiful and informative, sharing insights into the local environment, history, and lifestyle. This personal touch elevates the experience beyond just walking—it’s about learning and appreciating at each stop.

Exploring the Natural Wonder: Pietra Pendula

The first stop on the trail is the Monumento naturale regionale di Pietra Pendula. Here, you’ll gaze at dramatic rock formations that have been shaped over time. The site is a natural highlight, offering a chance to appreciate the geological forces that created such striking features. It’s a quick stop—about five minutes—but one packed with visual impact. Reviewers have praised this site for its majestic presence and the opportunity to capture some memorable photos.

A Scenic Trek Toward the Hillside Baita

The walk itself is described as scenic and well-marked, with many noting the serene beauty of the forest and wildflowers. While some reviews mention the trail’s moderate difficulty, others warn that it’s not suited for complete novices without proper footwear or physical preparedness. One reviewer, Christa, loved how the guide made her feel confident about navigating the trail, revealing the value of a knowledgeable guide for first-timers.

The highlight here is the connection to nature—you’re walking amidst deciduous trees, with views opening periodically to the lake below. It’s a peaceful contrast to busy city life, and many comment on the calm and serenity they felt during the hike.

A Delicious Lakeside Lunch at a Traditional Baita

After roughly an hour of hiking, you’ll arrive at a typical hillside Baita, where a hearty lunch awaits. The meal features 1 entree + 1 main course, accompanied by house wine, water, and Italian espresso. The menu is à la carte, and the food is described as freshly prepared. Reviewers like Christa appreciated how this meal was a perfect reward after the walk and contributed to an authentic experience, not just a tourist trap.

The lunch spot offers more than just food—it’s an immersive glimpse into local mountain life, with a rustic charm that enhances the sense of escaping into traditional Italy. The relaxed pace allows you to soak in the scenery and enjoy conversations with fellow travelers or your guide.

Returning to Como by Boat

The final leg of the journey involves a 20-minute boat ride from Torno back to Como’s city center. This scenic cruise offers another perspective of Lake Como, with views of colorful lakeside villas, lush hills, and the sparkling water. It’s an ideal way to wind down and reflect on the day’s adventures.

One reviewer, Raymond, pointed out that this boat trip is a highlight of the trip, emphasizing how it offers a relaxing finish to the active morning hike. The boat ride is included, which adds value to the overall experience, especially considering how picturesque the ride is.

For $213.45, this tour offers a well-rounded experience—combining scenic transportation, a guided hike, a delicious local meal, and a boat cruise—all within a manageable 6-hour window. The cost may seem steep for some, but the inclusion of transportation, meals, and guide services makes it a convenient, hassle-free way to explore Lake Como’s natural beauty without the stress of planning each detail yourself.

Travelers should note that moderate physical fitness is recommended, as parts of the trail include unsteady or challenging sections. However, the guides are praised for their attentiveness, with reviews mentioning that special care was taken for less mobile participants. This makes the tour accessible for most active travelers, but perhaps less ideal for those with significant mobility limitations.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to combine hiking with cultural exploration. It suits those who appreciate authentic local dishes and are comfortable with a bit of physical exertion. Small group size ensures a personalized experience, which you’ll likely find rewarding.

If you’re someone who enjoys scenic walks, breathtaking views, and learning about the environment from a local guide, this tour should be high on your list. It’s also great for photographers and nature lovers wanting to capture the stunning vistas of Lake Como from unique vantage points.

This guided hike from Como to Torno offers an excellent balance of adventure, scenery, and culture. The small group size and local expertise ensure a personalized experience, while the included transportation and meals simplify planning. You’ll love the spectacular views, the quiet beauty of the forest trails, and the authentic lakeside lunch.

While it does require a moderate level of fitness and some trail confidence, the overall experience is worthwhile for active travelers who want to see Lake Como beyond the usual photo spots. It’s perfect for those who value guided insights, delicious local food, and breathtaking scenery all wrapped into one memorable day.

If you’re after a rich, natural experience with a taste of local life, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember to book well in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on this highly-rated adventure.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including transportation, hiking, lunch, and boat ride.

What transportation is included?
You’ll ride the funicular from Como to Brunate and then take a boat from Torno back to Como.

Is the hike difficult?
The trail is described as moderate, but some sections may be unsteady or challenging, so a moderate physical fitness level is recommended.

What is included in the lunch?
A lakeside meal with 1 entree, 1 main course, house wine, water, and espresso. The menu is à la carte and food is freshly prepared.

Can children or seniors participate?
While the tour is suitable for most active travelers, some reviews mention that less mobile or elderly guests should consider the trail’s difficulty. Guides are attentive, but caution is advised.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, water, and possibly a hiking stick if you prefer extra support. The guide recommends bringing water especially during warmer days.

Are there any age restrictions?
There’s no specific age limit mentioned, but due to the physical nature, families with children should assess whether the trail suits their kids’ fitness levels.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
This experience requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book 73 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended, especially during high season.

This guided hike around Lake Como combines the best of scenic natural beauty, easy transportation, and authentic dining, making it a rewarding choice for curious, active travelers. Whether you’re after stunning vistas, a leisurely meal, or a small-group adventure, this tour offers a well-balanced day that’s likely to leave lasting memories.