Routes with gps data around the Italian-Swiss Lakes for advaced cyclists

Last season, we had the pleasure of providing GPS data and planning for a group of 15 dedicated road cyclists who chose Varese as their base for their annual cycling holiday. Their request was clear: they wanted a 5-day itinerary consisting of rides between 120km and 150km, with significant vertical gain (1,500m to 3,000m per day).

 

1. Route 1 | red | Over Lake Maggiore & Alpe Neggia | 126 km | 2,010 m+
2. Route 2 | yellow | The Hidden Heart: Lake Maggiore’s Inland Valleys | 121 km | 2,500 m+
3. Route 3 | blue | Around Lake Lugano up and down | 142 km | 2,050 m+
4. Route 4 | purple | Malcantone Region and lakeside roads | 132 km | 2,200 m+
5. Route 5 | light blue | The Pilgrimage: Lake Como & Madonna del Ghisallo | 152 km | 2,030 m+

 

The Italian and Swiss Lake District—spanning Lake Maggiore, Lake Lugano, and Lake Como—is the perfect playground for this kind of performance cycling. Here is the ultimate 5-day plan we designed for them, now available for your next challenge.
Find out more on Strava Climbing Segments.

Stats: 126 km | 2,010 m+
Highlights: This route takes you across the Swiss border to tackle Alpe Neggia (1,395m). It’s a relentless but rewarding climb with hairpins overlooking the northern tip of Lake Maggiore. The descent towards Magadino offers some of the fastest, most technical sections in the region. Major climbs:

1. Maccagno to Alpe di Neggia

2. Brinzio dalla Valcuvia

Stats: 121 km | 2,500 m+
Highlights: Instead of just riding the shoreline, we dive into the rugged valleys behind Luino and Laveno. This route is characterized by "constant rollers"—short, punchy climbs followed by technical descents through chestnut forests. It's a true test of leg strength and endurance. Major climbs:

1. Cuvignone da parcheggio Nasca

2. San Michele dalla Valcuvia

3. Passo del Sette Termini - da Grantola (VA)

Stats: 142 km | 2,050 m+
Highlights: A complete loop of Lake Lugano. You’ll experience the famous lakeside road through Morcote (voted one of Switzerland’s most beautiful villages) before tackling the climbs that connect the Lugano basin to the Varese valleys. It’s a high-mileage day with a mix of steady tempos and breathtaking balcony views over the water. Major climbs:

1. Alpe Tedesco

2. Morcote - Carona

3. Claino to San Fedele

Stats: 132 km | 2,200 m+
Highlights: The Malcantone region is a hidden gem for advanced riders. It’s a labyrinth of narrow, perfectly paved Swiss roads that wind through tiny villages and steep vineyards. Combined with a long stretch along the Lugano shoreline, this route offers a sophisticated blend of technical climbing and scenic recovery. Major climbs:

1. Castelrotto (Scuole) - Banco (campo)

2. Via Cantonale 60 Climb

3. Viglio-Agra

4. Marzio

Stats: 152 km | 2,030 m+
Highlights: The Madonna del Ghisallo is the patron saint of cyclists. From Varese, you ride towards Bellagio and climb the legendary switchbacks to the cycling chapel and museum. The return leg via “Muro di Sormano” features gradients up to 25%, a legendary challenge for any climber. Major climbs:

1. Madonna Del Ghisallo (da Bellagio)

2. Colma da Asso

3. Muro di Sormano

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