The best gravel rides in Como

The Como region offers a wide array of gravel biking opportunities, with over 170 trails available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 12 easy, 53 moderate, and 107 difficult options.

Gravel biking in Como features a diverse landscape where the iconic lake meets mountainous terrain. You can expect mixed terrain, including unpaved paths, gravel sections, tarmac, mountain trails, and forest paths. Many routes involve significant elevation gains and varied surfaces, from smooth gravel to rocky sections and steep concrete ascents.

Yes, there are several easier gravel routes. For instance, the Lura Park – Cycling and pedestrian bridge over the Lura loop from Lomazzo is an easy 21.7 km trail with minimal elevation gain. The region also offers gentle lakeside paths like the Greenway del Lago di Como, which are suitable for a more relaxed ride.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Como offers routes with significant elevation and technical sections. The San Fermo della Battaglia – Former Valmorea Railway loop from Como San Giovanni is a difficult 46.5 km path with notable elevation gain. Another demanding option is the San Lucio Pass – View of Lake Lugano loop from Porlezza, which covers over 50 km and features substantial climbing. The Ghisallo Gravel route, with its unpaved variants of the legendary Ghisallo climb, also provides a challenging experience.

Absolutely. Many gravel routes in Como offer continuous stunning vistas of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. The Gera Lario — Lakeside and Marina – View of Lake Como from Colico loop from Gravedona provides continuous views along the lakeside. The North Face Gravel route also runs entirely lakeside, offering breathtaking views without excessive elevation. Ridgelines, such as the one from Brunate to Bellagio, provide expansive views in both directions.

Yes, many gravel routes in Como are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Cycling and pedestrian bridge over the Lura – Lura River in the Parco del Lura loop from Cucciago and the extensive Lake Pusiano – Garlate Lake Cycle Path loop from Erba, which leads through multiple lake areas.

The region is rich in attractions. Many routes pass through or near picturesque towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio. You might also encounter historic villas such as Villa Melzi, Villa Carlotta, and Villa del Balbianello. Natural landmarks include Monte Generoso, Monte San Primo Summit, and the Voltiano Lighthouse. The Madonna del Ghisallo Sanctuary and Cycling Museum is also a significant point of interest for cyclists.

The gravel biking trails in Como are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 300 reviews. Riders frequently praise the diverse terrain, the stunning lake and mountain views, and the variety of routes that cater to different fitness levels. The blend of challenging off-road sections and scenic paved roads is often highlighted as a key appeal.

Absolutely! Lake Como is a hub for various outdoor activities. After a gravel ride, you can enjoy hiking on trails like the Sentiero del Viandante, or engage in water sports such as kayaking, windsurfing, or Stand-up Paddleboarding on the lake. Boat tours are also popular for exploring the hidden gems and historic villas from the water.

The Lake Como area is generally pleasant for gravel biking from spring through autumn. Spring offers lush greenery and moderate temperatures, while autumn provides vibrant foliage. Summer can be warm, but routes at higher elevations or those with good tree cover offer cooler conditions. Winter can bring colder temperatures and snow at higher altitudes, making some routes less accessible.

Many routes in Como pass through or near charming towns and villages, offering opportunities to stop for refreshments. Towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio are well-equipped with cafes and restaurants. Even on more remote routes, you'll often find small villages with local eateries, especially if you plan your route to include these stops.

Public transport options around Lake Como include trains and ferries, which can be useful for accessing various trailheads. For example, a shorter 45km version of the North Face Gravel route allows cyclists to take a train with their bike from Colico to Varenna. Ferries connect many of the lakeside towns, providing flexible options for reaching different starting points or for a scenic return journey.