About this tour
Ascend above Lake Como on this four-hour guided hike starting in the city centre. A vintage funicular whisks you up to Brunate, then a professional mountain leader takes you through forested trails and open ridges toward the Volta Lighthouse and a summit viewpoint. The walk is steady rather than strenuous, threading through woodland with periodic lake vistas. A traditional mountain refuge sits along the route if you fancy a rest and a meal cooked from regional ingredients.
Highlights
- Historic Brunate funicular ride included in tour cost
- Volta Lighthouse visit with panoramic city and lake views
- Certified International Mountain Leader guides throughout
- Gentle woodland trails suitable for mixed fitness levels
- Optional lunch at working mountain refuge with local food
- Rewarding summit viewpoint over Lake Como basin
What to expect
You'll start at Como's funicular station and ride uphill through a tunnel of trees to Brunate village. From there, your guide leads you onto quiet mountain paths that climb gradually through beech and chestnut woodland. The terrain is well-trodden and mostly shaded. As altitude increases, gaps in the trees reveal Lake Como sprawling below. The Volta Lighthouse marks a scenic pause point. The final push to the summit ridge takes another hour or so, but the gradient stays manageable. Views open across the lake's full expanse—north towards the Alps, south across the plain. Most hikers reach the refuge by early afternoon.
Good to know
Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring a water bottle. The funicular runs regularly, so you won't wait long at the start. If you skip lunch at the refuge, bring snacks. The route is open year-round but can be muddy after rain. Not suitable if you have significant cardiac issues or are pregnant. Dogs on leads are welcome.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.