The roads around the lake carry the history of the Giro di Lombardia, the Madonna del Ghisallo chapel is the spiritual home of every cyclist, and the climbs are close enough together that you can ride several of them in one day. If you want Italian racing roads without the Dolomites’ altitude or the Stelvio’s weather risk, Como is one of the best places to start.
This guide covers the climbs worth riding, a classic loop, when to go, and the practical details that make a week here run smoothly.
Why ride Lake Como
Three things set Como apart from other Italian cycling regions:
- Racing history on every road. The Giro di Lombardia, the “race of the falling leaves”, has crossed these hills for over a century. You ride the same climbs the pros do.
- Compact geography. Most of the best climbs sit within an hour of each other. You can base yourself in one hotel and ride something different every day.
- A long season. Spring and autumn are excellent, and the lake keeps temperatures mild when the mountains further north are still snowed in.
The climbs that matter
Madonna del Ghisallo
The most famous climb on the lake, and the one to ride first. From Bellagio it is roughly 10 km at a steady, rhythmic gradient that rewards pacing rather than power. At the top is the small chapel where cyclists are honoured as under the protection of Our Lady of Ghisallo, and next to it the cycling museum, full of bikes, jerseys and photographs from the sport’s history. Allow time to stop. The climb is the warm-up; the summit is the point.
Muro di Sormano
The opposite character: short, brutal and famous. The Muro di Sormano is under 2 km but averages around 17% with ramps well beyond 20%. It was used in the Giro di Lombardia in 2012 and remains one of Italy’s toughest climbs per kilometre. Gear down, stay seated, and do not start it unless your legs are fresh. If you want the climb without the Muro, the approach via the alternative road is far gentler.
Civiglio and the Como side
Above the city of Como, the roads to Civiglio, San Fermo della Battaglia and Brunate give you short, steep, technical climbs with lake views. They are ideal for a half-day ride or as the opening and closing sections of a longer loop.
Val d’Intelvi
The quieter western side of the lake. Longer, more gradual climbs, far less traffic, and a good option on days when the main lakeside road is busy.
A classic Como loop
A route most riders enjoy: start in Como, ride along the lake to Bellagio, climb Madonna del Ghisallo, descend toward the Lecco side and return via the Brianza hills. Depending on the variations you choose, this runs roughly 90 to 110 km with 1,500 to 2,000 m of climbing, which is a full day but well within reach for a fit club rider. Add the Muro di Sormano only if you want a serious challenge.
When to go
- April to June: the best balance of mild temperatures, green hills and manageable traffic.
- July and August: hot, busy and very popular with tourists. Ride early.
- September and October: settled weather, autumn colours and the Lombardia season atmosphere.
- November to March: possible on good days, but expect cold mornings and shorter daylight.
Practical tips
- Traffic: the lakeside roads can be busy, especially on weekends and in summer. Plan to leave the shore early and head uphill, where roads are quieter.
- Tunnels: the lake roads include several tunnels. Lights front and back are not optional.
- Gearing: a compact chainset and a wide cassette will make Ghisallo comfortable and Sormano possible.
- Water and food: villages are frequent, but plan your stops before the longer climbs.
- Getting there: Milan’s airports and Milan Centrale station both connect to Como and Lecco in around an hour.
How This Fits Into a Cigala Cycling Tour
Lake Como and the Lombardy climbs in this guide are the heart of our Lombardia cycling tour. You ride them guided by our team, with the route, hotel and support organised for you and the daily distance matched to the group.
Prefer to ride Como with your own club or friends? Talk to us about a custom tour and we will build it around your dates and fitness.
Frequently asked questions
Is Lake Como good for cycling?
Yes. It combines famous climbs, racing history, scenic roads and an easy-to-reach base, which makes it one of the most rewarding road cycling destinations in northern Italy.
How hard is Madonna del Ghisallo?
It is a long, steady climb of roughly 10 km from Bellagio, not a steep one. Most fit riders can ride it comfortably at their own pace.
How hard is Madonna del Ghisallo?
Very hard. It is short but averages around 17% with sections much steeper, so it needs low gearing and good legs.
What is the best month to cycle Lake Como?
May, June, September and early October are usually the best, with comfortable temperatures and good riding conditions.
Related guides
- Why Lake Garda Is Italy’s Best-Kept Cycling Secret
- Cycling in Italy: The Complete Regional Guide
- Cycling the Stelvio Pass: Complete Guide
- Best Time to Ride the Dolomites
- How to Prepare for a Cycling Holiday
— Matteo Cigala
Former European Gran Fondo Champion, Vice World Gran Fondo & Gravel Champion, Italian Gravel Champion, Coach & Tours Director of Cigala Cycling Tours
