The Lake Como & Lake Lugano Loop

 

The Lake Como & Lake Lugano Loop is a spectacular cross-border cycling route linking two of the most iconic lakes in northern Italy and southern Switzerland. Designed for road bikes, this itinerary combines flowing lakeside roads, rolling inland sections and panoramic viewpoints, offering a rich and varied riding experience across Lombardy and Ticino.

 

With a total distance of approximately 85 km and around 800 m of elevation gain, the route is best suited to experienced recreational riders and cyclists looking for a longer, more immersive day in the saddle. At a steady pace with regular stops, it can be completed as a half-day to full-day ride, making it ideal for cycle tourists who enjoy combining sport, scenery and local culture.

 

 

Starting point & access

 

The loop starts and finishes in Mendrisio, at Ciclosprint, a well-known local cycling meeting point and bike shop located next to Mendrisio San Martino train station.

 

The starting point is easily accessible:

 

• by train, including international connections

• by car, with several public parking garages and lots within a 1 km radius

 

This makes the route particularly convenient for visitors staying in Ticino, Lake Como, or nearby northern Italy.

 

 

Route description

 

From Mendrisio, the route heads south toward the Italian border, gradually approaching Lake Como. The first major lakeside town along the route is Cernobbio, known for its elegant villas and historic lakeside promenade. This section already offers impressive views over the lake and sets the tone for the ride.

 

Continuing north along the western shore of Lake Como, the route alternates between smooth lakeside stretches and gentle rolling terrain, reaching Carate Urio, a quieter and more intimate village where the road runs close to the water.

 

The ride then continues toward Menaggio, one of the most iconic towns on Lake Como and a natural midpoint of the loop. With its open views across the lake and lively waterfront, Menaggio is an ideal place for a longer break.

 

Leaving Lake Como, the route turns inland before reconnecting with Lake Lugano near Porlezza, a vibrant border town with a relaxed atmosphere. From here, the road follows the eastern shore of Lake Lugano, heading north through scenic lakeside stretches toward Lugano, before continuing back to Mendrisio.

 

 

Coffee stops & recommended breaks 

 

The route offers several well-placed opportunities to stop, making it especially appealing for cyclists who enjoy taking breaks and experiencing local food culture along the way. Most stops are located directly on the route or require only very short detours.

 

• Pasticceria Poletti – Cernobbio

  A historic pastry shop, perfect for an early Italian espresso and high-quality pastries.

• Millesimo Lake Como – Carate Urio

  A refined lakeside spot offering coffee and light meals directly on the water, ideal for a scenic pause.

• Café del Pess – Menaggio

  A popular lakeside café with panoramic views, perfect for a longer mid-ride break.

• Bar Italia – Porlezza

  A classic local bar with fast service and authentic Italian atmosphere, ideal before re-entering Switzerland.

• Bistrot Il Cannolo Suo d’Eccellenza – Lugano

  Known for its outstanding Sicilian cannoli and quality coffee — a rewarding stop once back on Swiss soil.

 

Stops are well distributed throughout the ride, making this itinerary suitable for cyclists who prefer to manage their effort, enjoy the scenery, and fully experience both regions.