Hike & Beer: beer tasting & breathtaking views at sunset

If you’re looking to combine outdoor adventure with a taste of local culture, the Hike & Beer experience around Lake Como might just be your perfect match. This tour promises a mix of scenic trekking, craft beer sampling, and spectacular sunsets—all in one afternoon. While it’s tailored for those who love the great outdoors and appreciate a good brew, it also offers a relaxed way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area away from the busy lakeshore crowds.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances adventure and relaxation. You get to hike a trail with stunning views of Lake Como and Lecco, then settle into a cozy microbrewery for some local drafts and tasty appetizers. The guides are known to be friendly and knowledgeable, adding a personal touch that makes the experience feel authentic and inviting.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is best suited for moderate physical fitness levels. The hike involves some elevation, and participants are advised to wear comfortable trekking shoes and bring water. It’s not the place for those looking for a purely leisurely experience, but if you enjoy getting a bit active and discovering less-traveled paths, you’ll find plenty to love.

This tour suits outdoor lovers, beer enthusiasts, and those seeking a unique sunset experience. It’s ideal if you want a break from the lakeshore crowds and a chance to enjoy nature, good company, and local flavors in one go.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: The trek culminates at a lookout with panoramic vistas of Lake Como and Lecco.
• Authentic Beer Tasting: Sample local craft beers at a well-regarded microbrewery, paired with regional appetizers.
• Balanced Adventure: A moderate hike suitable for most fitness levels, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxation.
• Expert Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with stories about flora, local history, and the area.
• Sunset Experience: Timing is optimized for viewing the sunset, creating a magical atmosphere.
• Value-Added Perks: Includes a discount voucher for dinner and a bottle of beer to take home.

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at the Edicola Ponte Vecchio in Lecco at 6:00 pm, a convenient spot accessible via public transportation and close to central Lecco. Meeting here prepares you for an evening adventure that’s both easy to access and well-organized. The group size is limited to 16 people, ensuring a more intimate experience, and the tour includes a local, professional mountain guide—a key factor in making the hike informative and enjoyable.

The duration is approximately 4 to 5 hours, making it a manageable yet fulfilling outing, especially if you’re keen to maximize your evening without it dragging on. The tour’s price of $184.22 per person might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the included beer tasting, appetizers, sunset views, and guide, it offers a well-rounded, immersive experience.

The Hike: Parco Monte Barro

The trek begins at Parco Monte Barro, a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering spectacular views over Lecco and eastern Lake Como. The trail winds along the mountain’s side, providing plenty of opportunities for photographs and quiet reflection away from the bustling lakeshore.

The hike itself lasts about three hours. According to reviews, guides like Gabriele and Isabella excel at pointing out flora and local history, turning what could be a simple walk into an educational experience. The trail is described as lovely, with some elevation but not overly strenuous, making it suitable for most moderate fitness levels. Reviewers appreciated their guides’ friendliness and knowledge, which added layers of context and fun.

Beer Tasting at Birrificio Herba Monstrum

After reaching the summit, the adventure continues at the Birrificio Herba Monstrum, a renowned local microbrewery. Here, you’ll sample craft beers paired with local appetizers, a thoughtful touch that helps connect you with regional flavors. The brewery offers a selection, and you can choose your preferred beer to enjoy at the scenic lookout during sunset.

One reviewer commented, “Gabriele and Isabella curated a nice experience at the brewery,” highlighting the warm, friendly atmosphere. It’s a perfect way to unwind after the hike, with the setting sun casting a golden glow over the countryside.

Sunset and Scenic Views

The highlight of the experience is definitely the sunset over Lake Como. From the lookout, you’ll witness the changing colors as the sun dips behind the mountains. The view is breathtaking, with the eastern side of the lake glowing in hues of orange and pink.

The guide will help you find the perfect spot to soak in the scenery, and you’ll have time to relax and enjoy your craft beer while marveling at the landscape. One guest noted that the sunset views were “absolutely stunning,” confirming how memorable this part of the tour can be.

Ending the Tour

The tour concludes back at the starting point in Lecco, typically after about 30 minutes at the lookout. Participants usually leave feeling refreshed, with a sense of accomplishment from the hike and the serenity of the sunset. The included discount voucher for dinner (or a future visit) is a nice bonus, letting you extend the meal or explore more local cuisine.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides: The friendliness and expertise of guides like Gabriele, Isabella, and Marco make a significant difference. They’re attentive, share stories, and point out flora or historical tidbits, enriching the experience.

Stunning Views and Sunset Timing: The timing is planned to catch the sunset, offering unforgettable scenery. Being above the lakeshore means fewer crowds and more intimate vistas.

Authentic Local Flavors: Sampling craft beer from a local microbrewery and enjoying regional appetizers makes the experience more meaningful than just a generic tour.

Balanced Itinerary: The combination of hiking, tasting, and relaxing provides a well-rounded activity, suitable for those who enjoy moderate physical activity but want enough downtime to savor the surroundings.

Value for Money: While the price includes several perks, the real value lies in the combination of scenic vistas, local flavors, and guided insight. It offers a different perspective on Lake Como, away from the typical tourist spots.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable, sturdy trekking shoes—the trail involves some elevation and uneven surfaces.
• Bring water and dress in sporty, weather-appropriate clothing; a windproof jacket might be wise if the weather’s unstable.
• The tour is suitable for beer lovers and medium-level hikers. If you dislike hiking or alcohol, this might not be the best fit.
• The tour is near public transportation, making it easy to reach the meeting point.
• Timing depends on sunset, so check local sunset hours and plan your day accordingly.
• The group size is capped at 16, which helps maintain a friendly atmosphere, but booking well in advance (usually 89 days ahead on average) is recommended.

This Hike & Beer tour offers a compelling mix of outdoor activity, local culture, and stunning scenery. It’s particularly well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy a bit of adventure and appreciate authentic regional flavors. The guides’ local knowledge adds depth, transforming a simple hike into a memorable, educational outing.

The experience’s highlight—the sunset view over Lake Como—is worth the price, especially for travelers craving a more tranquil, scenic perspective of the area. It’s ideal for those wanting to escape the busy lakeshore, enjoy some quiet along with quality craft beer, and create lasting memories in nature’s embrace.

However, if you’re looking for a completely relaxed, low-effort activity, or aren’t comfortable with moderate hiking, you might find this experience slightly challenging. Also, given the reliance on good weather, it’s best to keep flexible plans around sunset times and be prepared for possible schedule changes.

In summary, this tour is a fantastic way to blend adventure, culture, and scenic beauty—providing a taste of Lake Como that’s both genuine and fun.

Is this tour suitable for children?
This experience is designed for adults and those with moderate physical fitness. Children might enjoy the scenery and the brewery, but the hike and sunset timing are best suited for teens and up.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, sporty clothes and sturdy trekking shoes. Bring a windproof jacket if the weather looks unstable, and don’t forget water to stay hydrated during the hike.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Yes. The tour includes a beer tasting, but you’re not required to drink. You can opt for a non-alcoholic beverage if available, or simply enjoy the scenery and snacks.

Is transportation provided from my hotel?
Transport from accommodation isn’t included but can be requested at an extra charge. The meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to reach.

How long does the experience last?
The full tour is approximately 4 to 5 hours, with most of the time spent hiking, sampling beer, and enjoying the sunset.

What’s the group size?
Up to 16 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly and personalized atmosphere.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on good weather. In case of poor weather, it might be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll be offered a full refund or a different date.

Whether you’re after stunning natural views, a taste of local craft beer, or just a different way to experience Lake Como, this tour offers a balanced, enjoyable outing that’s worth considering.