Lake Como: 2-Hour Wine Tasting Experience with Iconic Views
Exploring Lake Como often means admiring its famous villas, charming villages, and shimmering waters. This 2-hour wine tasting experience in Brunate offers a different kind of glimpse—through the sophisticated lens of Lombardy’s best regional wines, paired with traditional delicacies, all set against some of the most breathtaking views in Italy.
While the experience is short and sweet, it captures the essence of local culture, scenery, and flavors. We love how it combines the scenic funicular ride up to Brunate, a historic winery with panoramic vistas, and the chance to taste three premium wines. That said, it’s worth noting that the small group size and intimate setting mean you’ll need to book in advance. Perfect for wine lovers, scenery seekers, or anyone craving a relaxing, authentic taste of Lake Como.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
Stunning panoramic views of Lake Como from the hilltop village of Brunate.
Tasty regional wines—including sparkling white, white, and red—paired with local delicacies.
Scenic funicular ride included, making the journey just as memorable as the tasting.
Small-group setting ensures personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.
Authentic Lombard traditions come alive through the wine stories and sampling.
Convenient check-in point outside the funicular station with tickets included.
Looking for more options in Brunate? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
A Scenic Journey to a Hidden Gem
This experience begins with a short walk to the funicular station outside Como, where your journey up to Brunate starts. The funicular ride itself is a highlight—climbing through lush greenery and offering flight after flight of stunning views as you ascend to the hilltop village. The tickets are included, so there’s no fuss about extra costs or logistics, allowing you to settle back and soak in the scenery.
Once you arrive in Brunate, you’re greeted by a historic winery set against panoramic views of Lake Como. This location isn’t just a pretty backdrop; it’s a working winery with deep roots in the region’s winemaking tradition. The setting is intimate and charming, drawing visitors into a relaxed environment perfect for savoring the flavors of Lombardy.
The winery itself has a sense of history, with knowledgeable guides eager to share stories behind each wine and the local customs that shape Lombardian viticulture. According to reviews, the guides are friendly, multilingual, and passionate about their craft, which enriches the tasting experience.
The Tasting Experience: Flavors and Pairings
During the 2-hour session, you’ll enjoy tasting three carefully selected wines from Lombardy. These include a sparkling white, a white wine, and a red—each chosen to showcase the region’s diversity and quality.
The tasting is complemented by a selection of local delicacies: homemade focaccia and breadsticks, a mixed platter of salami and cheeses, and other surprising regional appetizers. These pairings aren’t just thrown together—they’re crafted to amplify the nuances of each wine, making the experience both educational and sensory.
What makes this stand out is the emphasis on authenticity. One reviewer noted that the “pairings were simple but perfect, highlighting the regional flavors.” Another appreciated the chance to learn about Lombardy’s winemaking heritage from guides who are eager to share their knowledge.
Breathtaking Views and Photo Opportunities
The panoramic vistas of Lake Como from Brunate are truly spectacular. As you sip your wines and nibble on local bites, you’ll be treated to sweeping views over the shimmering lake, surrounded by mountains—an ideal setting for memorable photos. In fact, travelers are encouraged to bring a camera to capture the golden hues of sunset or the mist rolling over the water.
Reviewers mention that “the views really elevate the experience,” and many take extra time after the tasting to wander around the village or find a quiet spot to soak in the scenery.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details: What’s Included and How It Works
The experience lasts around two hours, starting with your meeting point outside the funicular station. Arrive at least 10 minutes early to ensure a smooth start. The small group size—limited to 8 participants—means you’ll get personalized attention and plenty of chance to ask questions.
Included in your booking are the roundtrip funicular tickets, making the journey up and down effortless. The wine tasting, food pairings, and guide services are all part of the package, so there are no hidden costs. The tour is offered in multiple languages, including English, Italian, French, and German, which caters to diverse travelers.
You can reserve now and pay later, adding flexibility to your travel plans. If you need to cancel, you can do so up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What Reviews Reveal About the Experience
Several reviewers praise the quality of wines and the authenticity of the experience. One said, “The wines were excellent, and the guide explained everything with passion.” Others highlighted the scenic ride as a highlight—”I loved the funicular, it’s a perfect way to start this little adventure,” noted a guest.
Some guests appreciated the informal, friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to learn about the regional wines in a relaxed setting. A common theme was the stunning views—”the scenery alone makes this worth it,” a traveler remarked.
However, a few pointed out that the experience is brief—being only two hours, it’s more of a taste than an in-depth exploration. Still, the focus on quality over quantity makes it ideal for those wanting a quick, scenic, and flavorful experience.
The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?
This wine tasting experience is perfect for travelers who crave authentic flavors paired with unforgettable views. If you’re a wine enthusiast, a scenery lover, or simply seeking a relaxing break from busy sightseeing, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. The combination of a scenic funicular ride, a historic winery, and carefully curated tastings offers a balanced mix of culture, nature, and gastronomy.
The small-group format ensures that you receive personalized attention, making it a more intimate journey into Lombardy’s wine traditions. The included tickets and flexible booking options add to the convenience, especially for spontaneous travelers or those adjusting their plans.
While it’s a short experience, its value lies in the quality of the wines, the authenticity of the setting, and the mesmerizing views you’ll carry with you long after the tasting ends. It’s an excellent addition for those looking to combine scenic beauty with a taste of local wine culture—an authentic, picturesque slice of Lake Como life.
FAQ
How long is the wine tasting experience?
The tasting lasts approximately two hours, including the funicular ride and the tasting session.
What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample three Lombardy wines: a sparkling white, a white, and a red wine, all carefully selected to showcase regional flavors.
Are food pairings included?
Yes, the tasting includes homemade focaccia and breadsticks, along with a mixed platter of salami and cheeses, plus other regional appetizers.
Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip funicular tickets are part of the experience, making the journey up to Brunate seamless.
What are the group sizes?
This experience is limited to eight participants, creating an intimate and engaging environment.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Italian, French, and German, making it accessible for international travelers.
Where do I meet the guide?
You meet outside the funicular station in Como, so arriving 10 minutes early is recommended.
Is this experience suitable for all ages?
While primarily aimed at adults, the focus on wine and scenic views makes it best suited for travelers over 18.