Onno and Ghisallino Loop

This route is generally considered to have a moderate to hard difficulty, making it suitable for intermediate to experienced road cyclists. While there are gentle lakeside stretches, it features significant climbs, particularly the Ghisallo ascent. For a more relaxed experience on the climbs, an electric bike might be a good option.

The route offers a dynamic mix of terrain. You'll cycle along serene lakeside roads with views of Lake Como, charming towns, and elegant villas. As you climb, the route winds through valleys and up hillsides, with the Ghisallo climb providing breathtaking panoramas. Expect a mix of smooth asphalt roads, typical for race biking.

This route is rich in cycling history and scenic beauty. Key highlights include the Madonna del Ghisallo and Cycling Museum at the summit, a pilgrimage site for cyclists. You'll also encounter a Fountain in Honor of the Maisano Cyclist, and several stunning viewpoints like the Viewpoint (Onno), a View of the Lecco Branch and the Grigne, and a Scenic Viewpoint along Ghisallo Climb.

The route is enjoyable across seasons, but spring and autumn are particularly popular. Spring offers vibrant green landscapes, while autumn is famous for its rich, colorful foliage. The weather is generally milder during these times, making the climbs more comfortable. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

While the Komoot tour starts in Onno, you can typically find parking in towns around Lake Como, including Onno itself or nearby areas like Bellagio, which is a common starting point for the Ghisallo climb. Look for public parking areas in these towns. Arriving earlier in the day, especially on weekends, is advisable to secure a spot.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling on public roads and designated routes like this one within the Triangolo Lariano area. However, always be mindful of local regulations, especially if you venture off the main cycling paths or visit specific attractions like the Ghisallo Cycling Museum, which may have an entrance fee.

As this is primarily a road cycling route, it's generally not suitable for dogs to accompany you on the bike. If you plan to bring a dog, they would need to be securely transported in a bike trailer designed for pets, or you could consider shorter, less trafficked sections for a walk. Always ensure your dog's safety and comfort.

Yes, sections of this route briefly overlap with several official trails. You'll find it intersects with parts of the SICAI Ciclo, Dorsale del Triangolo Lariano, and Strada di Gera, among others. These intersections are generally short, as the primary focus remains on the road cycling experience.

Yes, the Ghisallo climb is known for its challenging sections. While the average incline is around 5.5%, the initial 2.5 km from Bellagio can feature steep gradients of 9% and even up to 14%. There can be some respite in flatter sections, such as near Guello, before a final steep push to the summit. Pacing yourself is key.

Yes, given the popularity of this cycling route, you'll find cafes and restaurants in the towns along Lake Como, such as Onno and Bellagio. At the summit of Ghisallo, near the Madonna del Ghisallo chapel and museum, there are also options for refreshments, making it a convenient stop to refuel.

The Ghisallo climb holds legendary status due to its inclusion in major professional cycling races like "Il Lombardia" since 1919. At its summit, the Shrine of Madonna del Ghisallo, declared the patroness of cyclists, and the adjacent Cycling Museum, housing historic memorabilia, make it a significant pilgrimage site for cyclists worldwide.