Exclusive Picnic in the Foothills of the Alps with the Lake Views

The Exclusive Picnic in the Foothills of the Alps with the Lake Views offers a unique way to experience Lake Como’s natural beauty without the crowds. Priced at $160 per person, this 4-hour small-group tour is perfect for those seeking a relaxed, scenic escape. The tour departs from Varenna, begins at 11:00 am, and is limited to just eight participants, ensuring an intimate atmosphere. What makes this experience stand out is the combination of a short, scenic hike through the hills, a delightful picnic featuring local food and regional wines, and personalized insights from a knowledgeable guide.

This tour is especially suitable for travelers who appreciate stunning lake and mountain vistas, authentic local cuisine, and a quiet, relaxed pace. Although the walk is flat and optional, it offers an authentic outdoor experience with panoramas that are sometimes hard to find on your own. Keep in mind that most bookings are made about 73 days in advance, so early planning is recommended if you want to secure a spot. This adventure is a wonderful choice for anyone looking to combine nature, culture, and gastronomy in a small, friendly group.

Key Points

• Small-group experience limited to 8 people for a more personal touch
• 4-hour tour starting from Varenna with a scenic hill hike and picnic
• Price of $160 per person includes local food, regional wines, and an elegant picnic setup
• Guided walk through forested hills with panoramas of Lake Como and the Alps
• Highly rated with a perfect 5.0/5 from 44 reviews, praised for knowledgeable guides and breathtaking views
• Flexible and accessible walk, suitable for all ages, with a fully optional, flat hike

Starting Point in Varenna and the Journey Up into the Hills

The tour begins at the pier outside Hotel Olivedo in Varenna, where travelers meet around 11:00 am. From there, a private vehicle takes the group up into the mountains for about 40 minutes, providing scenic views of abandoned churches, orchards, and lush landscapes along the way. The drive offers a chance to admire the dramatic landscapes of the region before the hike begins.

Once parked, the guide leads a 20-30 minute walk through the forest, with ample opportunities to enjoy panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding hills. The walk is described as flat and fully optional, making it accessible even for those with limited mobility or cautious about strenuous activity.

Discovering the Hills Near Varenna

The ascent to the foothills of the Alps reveals spectacular vistas that are often difficult to access independently. The landscape here includes half-abandoned churches, orchards, and quiet forest trails. The scenery offers a peaceful escape from crowd-filled spots, making it ideal for nature lovers and those wanting a more secluded experience.

The walk is tailored to the group’s pace, and the guide provides insights into local agriculture and daily life in this part of Italy. Watch for fruit trees and traditional farming practices as you ascend into the hills, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

The Picnic Spot: Breathtaking Views and Local Flavors

Arriving at the picnic area, travelers find a setup that combines elegance and comfort. The scene is accompanied by light background music, creating a relaxed, refined atmosphere. The table is already laid out with a selection of local foods sourced from nearby farmers in the Valsassina and Valtellina regions.

The guides take the opportunity to share stories about the origins of the food, regional traditions, and the farmers behind the products. The wine is carefully selected, offering a taste of regional varieties that complement the delicious cheeses and fresh produce. The setup is designed for great photos, capturing the stunning lake and mountain views in the background.

Guide-Led Insights into Local Food and Farming

Throughout the picnic, the guide provides informative commentary about the local regions of Valsassina and Valtellina, highlighting typical cheeses not found in tourist eateries. This adds an authentic touch, giving insights into regional food culture and farming practices. The emphasis on locally sourced ingredients ensures that the experience feels genuine and sustainable.

Guests are free to relax, enjoy the delicious food and wine, and take in the breathtaking scenery. The atmosphere is described as fine and intimate, perfect for those who appreciate quality, comfort, and authentic regional flavors.

The Quality and Variety of Food and Wine

The food served during the picnic is described as abundant, fresh, and delicious, with a focus on local cheeses and regional specialties. The wine selection is praised as scrumptious, rounding out the experience with regional varieties. The presentation is carefully curated, making the meal feel special without being overly formal.

Guests often comment on the thoughtfulness of the setup and the quality of the local products, emphasizing how well the food and drink complement the scenic setting.

The Guide: Personalized, Friendly, and Knowledgeable

The guide—not named specifically but praised in reviews as friendly and full of information—guides the group through the experience with warmth and expertise. They provide background stories, regional insights, and local knowledge that enrich the day.

The small group size ensures that the guide can attend to individual questions, making the experience both informative and personal. Several reviews mention how the guide’s sociable personality enhances the overall enjoyment.

Timing, Pacing, and Flexibility

The experience lasts approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, with the picnic itself taking a leisurely pace. The walk is designed to be flat and optional, catering to different levels of physical activity. The total activity time allows for plenty of relaxation and photo stops, ensuring that the experience doesn’t feel rushed.

The end of the tour is typically around 3:00 pm, giving ample time afterward for additional exploration or transportation arrangements. The tour’s flexible structure makes it suitable for a wide range of guests, including older travelers.

Logistics and Accessibility

The meeting point is easy to find in Varenna, with public transportation nearby. The group size of up to 8 travelers guarantees an intimate experience. Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, assuming they are comfortable with a short, flat walk.

The tour is held in good weather conditions, and if canceled due to poor weather, participants are offered a reschedule or full refund. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially since most reservations are made around 73 days ahead.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

This experience’s key feature is the combination of scenic hiking, local food, and regional wine in an intimate group setting. Unlike larger, more generic tours, this one emphasizes personalized storytelling and authentic regional flavors. The scenic views of Lake Como from above are a highlight, offering a perspective often missed by typical lake cruises or town visits.

The careful attention to detail in food presentation, the knowledgeable guide, and the peaceful setting make this tour a standout choice for those who want a relaxed, authentic outdoor experience with a touch of luxury.

Exclusive Picnic in the Foothills of the Alps with the Lake Views (Lake Como)

The $160 experience provides an authentic, intimate escape into the hills near Varenna, combining scenic hiking with a regional picnic. The tour’s small group size and personalized storytelling make it popular, with all reviews rating it a perfect 5.0/5.

Whether you are a food lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply want breathtaking views, this tour offers a memorable way to enjoy Lake Como’s landscape away from the crowds. The flexible, flat walk makes it accessible for most, while the delicious local food and wine ensure a gourmet touch.

If you seek quiet scenic spots with authentic regional flavors, this tour likely ranks among the best options available in the area. Early booking is recommended to secure a spot on this highly-rated, limited-participant journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $160?
The price covers the guided hike, regional food and wine picnic, and use of the picnic setup in a scenic mountain location.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, including the walk, picnic, and storytelling.

Is the walk difficult?
No, the walk is flat and optional. It lasts about 20-30 minutes through forested areas with stunning views.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour starts at Hotel Olivedo pier in Varenna and ends back at the same point around 3:00 pm.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers for an intimate experience.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, most travelers can participate, with the walk being fully optional and suitable for a wide age range.

Is this tour suitable during bad weather?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, participants receive a full refund or can reschedule.

Are pets allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour.

How far in advance should I book?
Most reservations are made about 73 days in advance, so early booking is advised to secure a spot.

What makes this tour different from other Lake Como excursions?
It combines scenic mountain views, authentic local food and wine, and a small-group environment for a relaxed and personal experience outside the typical tourist spots.

This small-group hike and picnic in the hills near Varenna offers an authentic taste of the region, with stunning vistas, delicious regional cuisine, and a warm, knowledgeable guide. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape into nature with a culinary twist.