There’s something instantly satisfying about starting your Lake Como ride by funicular, then switching to a mountain bike for off-road climbs and fast downhills. I like how the route is built for views without wasting the whole morning grinding up the wrong kind of road.

I also really value the human touch here: the experience runs as a private group, and Max from Como Bike Tours is the kind of guide who keeps the ride moving while steering you toward smart moments—like where to pause for the best sightlines and how to plan an actual good lunch stop. One drawback to flag: this is not a casual cruise. You’ll need comfort riding on off-road trails (rated S2) and confidence on steep uphills and downhills.

The practical “send” before you book

If you’re in decent shape and like mountain biking more than sightseeing from a bus window, you’ll probably love this. The canyon-sized views from Monte Boletto make the effort feel earned—but if you’re looking for flat, beginner-friendly riding, this won’t match your pace.

Key highlights worth marking on your map

• Como-Brunate funicular to skip the first asphalt grind for easier momentum
• Faro Voltiano on the climb with sweeping views toward Switzerland and the Alps
• Monte Boletto summit payoff over Lake Como, Lake Pusiano, and northern Lombardia
• Guided off-road route using gravel roads and paths, not just pavement
• Lunch at a chalet restaurant (own expense) so you can choose what works for you
• Private group riding so you’re not squeezed into a crowd

Two wheels over Lake Como: what this ride really is

This is a guided MTB tour built around one simple idea: get out of the city area, climb to the viewpoint zone efficiently, then earn big scenery on the bike. You’ll start with a short funicular hop, then move onto gravel roads and trails as you work your way toward Monte Boletto.

The timing is tight but not rushed—think about 3 to 4 hours of riding/stop time total. That makes it a great fit if you want outdoor time without losing your whole day, and it also means you’ll want to show up ready: the tour is listed for strong physical fitness and comfort on steeper uphills/downhills.

This is also the kind of ride where “small decisions” matter. A half-speed hesitation on a steep section can be the difference between enjoying it and feeling stressed. If you’ve ridden mountain bikes before—especially on gravel or uneven surfaces—you’ll understand what I mean fast.

Como-Brunate funicular: the smartest way to start

The first move is the funicular ride Como-Brunate, lasting about 10 minutes. The key benefit isn’t just convenience—it’s energy management. It cuts out the first asphalt climb so you don’t spend your legs battling a long grind before the real MTB fun starts.

While you’re on board, you get views over Como city, which is a nice mental warm-up. Then you’re back on the ground, geared up, and ready to pedal on terrain that’s more “bike tour” than “commute.”

One note to handle carefully: the package lists cable car tickets as included, but the stop detail also mentions the admission ticket might not be included. Before you go, I’d confirm what’s covered under your exact booking option so you’re not scrambling on the spot.

Faro Voltiano: a quick stop with big geography

About 1000 meters up, you’ll reach Faro Voltiano, a lighthouse dedicated to Alessandro Volta. This is one of those stops that makes the route feel more than just a climb—it turns the ride into a mini geography lesson with your bike as the transportation.

You’ll spend around 5 minutes there, and the view is the main event: Lake Como, plus sightlines toward Switzerland and the Alps. Even if you don’t memorize every mountain name (you don’t have to), it helps you “place” where you are. Lake Como stops being a single postcard and becomes part of a larger alpine panorama.

Also, this stop is described as free, so it’s a no-stress add-on to your route. If the weather is clear, it’s the kind of spot where you’ll want to pause, catch your breath, and then get back on the trail before the group moves on.

Monte Boletto: the summit views you came for

Monte Boletto is the centerpiece. The route pushes you up using gravel roads and paths, which means you’ll feel your tires working—traction, small bumps, and the constant need to adjust your body position. That’s part of the fun, but it’s also why the tour asks for strong fitness and comfort with off-road riding.

At the top, you’re rewarded with views over:

• Lake Como
• Lake Pusiano
• Northern Lombardia

This is the moment where the tour makes sense. You don’t just “see” Lake Como—you see how the valleys stack up and how the lake threads through the terrain. It’s the kind of viewpoint that changes how you imagine the region when you’re back down in town.

Then comes the lunch plan. You’ll stop at a chalet restaurant for lunch. This is own expense, so you’re choosing what to order, how long to linger, and whether you want a lighter meal before the descent or something more substantial to keep you fueled.

I’d treat lunch like a performance tool, not a casual afterthought. For a downhill return, you don’t want to feel heavy or sluggish. Go with something that won’t wreck your stomach when you start rolling again.

The descent back: steep joy with real bike control

After the chalet stop, you turn downhill. That’s usually the moment MTB riders start grinning—unless they spent the uphill tense. The uphill prepares you, mentally and physically, for what comes next: steep downhills.

The tour info is clear that you should be comfortable with steep uphills and downhills and confident on off-road trails rated S2. That rating is a heads-up: you’ll be riding uneven ground, not smooth pavement. Expect to steer with intention, keep your weight positioned, and be ready for traction changes on gravel or packed dirt.

Also, you’ll want to remember you’re in a guided group. The guide helps set rhythm and keeps the route safe, but you still need to ride your own bike well. If you tend to lock your arms or freeze when it gets steep, this is a good place to practice relaxing and looking ahead.

Food and local cuisine: how lunch fits the day

Lunch is where the tour becomes “local experience” instead of “just a ride.” Since food and drinks aren’t included, you’re not trapped with a fixed menu or pricing. That’s a plus if you have dietary preferences or you just want to pick what sounds best in the moment.

A useful detail from the guide feedback: Max is described as someone who’ll offer advice for a good lunch or dinner. That’s practical. If you ask, you’ll likely get recommendations that match the kind of day you’re having—outdoorsy, hungry, and maybe slightly dusty.

My suggestion: don’t wait until you feel ravenous. Take the lunch opportunity at the chalet stop, then settle on a meal you can eat comfortably and still enjoy the ride back down.

Bike rental, your bike, and choosing e-bike size

You have two paths: bring your own mountain bike or rent one. The tour explicitly needs a mountain bike, and a rental option is available only if you choose the setting with bike rental.

If you’re considering an ebike, the info gives a minimum height for sizing: 150 cm (4′ 11″). That matters because the e-bike experience depends on fit—too small and you’ll feel cramped; too big and you’ll struggle to control the bike on steep sections.

Here’s the common-sense takeaway: if you’re renting, arrive with enough time to get the bike adjusted well. A seat height that’s off by just a little can make uphill harder and downhill less comfortable.

Weather, timing, and why the day can change

This tour operates in all weather conditions and asks you to dress appropriately. In extreme weather conditions, the tour may be rescheduled or fully refunded, and it’s also stated to be weather-dependent—so bad conditions can change the plan.

The upside of this style of operation: you’re not constantly chasing perfect weather to get on the trail. The downside: if conditions are rough, you might feel it more on off-road terrain.

So plan for the day to be “work + views,” not a soft stroll. Rain, cool air, and wind can turn a fun ride into a focus-heavy one. Wear layers, protect your hands, and bring clothing that you can move in.

Price and value: is $314.16 reasonable for what you get?

At $314.16 per person, this isn’t a budget add-on. It’s priced like an active, guided MTB outing with key expenses built in.

What you’re paying for includes:

• a professional guide
• cable car tickets (as listed in the included items)
• local taxes
• and, depending on your option, bike rental

You’re also paying for time and focus. Three to four hours with a guide who knows the mountain route—and can help you hit the right viewpoints at the right moments—adds real value. This is especially true because the experience isn’t beginner-flat. You’ll get safer riding cues, pacing, and a route that’s meant to make sense as one connected loop.

Where the price can feel less “bang for buck” is if you already have your own bike, are super experienced, and just want a scenic ride with no guidance. But since this is a private group and includes the funicular component, the guided structure is part of the value equation.

If you’re booking with bike rental included, the value improves further because you’re not dealing with a separate rental setup.

Who should book this MTB tour (and who should not)

This tour fits best if you:

• want a true MTB route with gravel and trails, not just easy sightseeing
• are comfortable on off-road S2 trails
• can handle steep uphill and downhill riding
• like active days with a clear viewpoint payoff

It’s less suited to you if you:

• want easy, flat riding
• get stressed on steep descents
• prefer to avoid uneven surfaces and traction changes

Also, there’s a minimum age of 14, and anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Ebike sizing includes a height minimum, which also affects who can choose that option comfortably.

Guide factor: why Max’s approach matters

The name that shows up consistently is Max, tied to Como Bike Tours. The feedback paints him as a guide who mixes professionalism with a relaxed, friendly tone. More importantly, he’s described as someone who knows good routes in the mountains and gives practical suggestions—not just “here’s the view,” but help with the overall day.

That matters because mountain biking isn’t just motion. It’s decision-making:

• when to push
• when to pause
• where to point your bike for the best views
• how to plan lunch so you don’t feel wrecked for the descent

If you like guides who treat the day like a plan you can trust, this one’s worth your attention.

Should you book Lake Como Mountain Views on MTB?

If your idea of a perfect Lake Como day is mountain air + real biking + viewpoint rewards, I’d say book it. The funicular start is smart, the route is built around Monte Boletto and its panoramas, and the guide-led structure keeps the day coherent and safe.

But be honest with yourself about the riding level. This is for strong fitness and comfort on steep, off-road terrain. If that’s you, you’ll likely come away with a “that was hard but worth it” smile.

If you tell me your biking experience (beginner/intermediate/expert), whether you’re bringing your own bike or considering rental, and the month you’re going, I can help you decide if the timing and conditions are likely to be a good match.

FAQ

FAQ

How long is the MTB Lake Como tour?

It runs about 3 to 4 hours total.

Do I need good fitness for this ride?

Yes. The tour requires strong physical fitness, and you should be comfortable riding on off-road trails and steep uphills and downhills.

Is food included in the tour price?

No. Lunch at a chalet restaurant is an own-expense stop, and food and drinks are not included.

Is a bike rental available?

Yes, but only if you select the option that includes cycling with bike rental. If you choose cycling tour only, you’ll need your own mountain bike.

What bike types can I use?

You’ll need a mountain bike for the tour. An ebike option is mentioned with a minimum height requirement of 150 cm (4′ 11″) for sizing.

What’s the funicular portion for?

You take the Como-Brunate funicular to cut the first uphill climb. The funicular ride lasts about 10 minutes.

Where is the viewpoint stop Faro Voltiano?

It’s a lighthouse dedicated to Alessandro Volta, about 1000 meters above sea level, with views over Lake Como and toward Switzerland and the Alps. Admission is free for that stop.

What should I know about weather?

The tour operates in all weather conditions and asks you to dress appropriately. In extreme weather it may be rescheduled or fully refunded, and it requires good weather to run.

Is there a minimum age?

Yes. The minimum age to take part is 14, and anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.