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The Malcantone Tour is a cycling route that crosses one of the most fascinating and unspoiled areas of the Lugano region: the Malcantone. This hilly territory, characterized by woods, forests, and small roads along the slopes of Monte Lema, offers an immersive and panoramic experience for those seeking tranquility and nature.

With approximately 80 km in length and 1,100 meters of elevation gain, the tour is ideal for cyclists with a solid level of fitness who are looking for a longer and more scenic ride. Maintaining a steady pace and including a few stops, it can be completed in around 3 hours and 30 minutes or enjoyed over half a day.

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Starting point & access

 

The loop starts and finishes in Mendrisio, at Ciclosprint — a well-known meeting point for cyclists and a bike shop located next to the Mendrisio San Martino railway station.

The route can be started from any point, but for convenience we indicate Mendrisio as the official starting location.

The starting point is easily accessible:

• By train, including international connections

• By car, with several public parking areas and parking garages within a 1 km radius

This makes the tour particularly convenient for visitors coming from Lugano, the Mendrisiotto region, or northern Italy.

Route description

From Mendrisio, you ride towards the Italian border, following the left shore of Lake Lugano as far as Porto Ceresio. The route then continues through Italy before re-entering Switzerland at Ponte Tresa.

From here, turn left towards Molinazzo, then take the climb on the right leading up to Sessa. The village offers a fountain and a small supermarket — perfect for a short break.

The route continues towards Astano and then Novaggio, along a rolling section, before reaching the false flat that leads to Miglieglia, the starting point of the Monte Lema cable car.

The profile remains undulating until Cademario, from where a long descent begins towards Bioggio. From Bioggio, you can easily return to Mendrisio via Lugano.