4.8
(46)
577
riders
Morcote and Carona Loop
02:15
32.0km
620m
Cycling
This challenging 19.9-mile touring cycling loop around Lago di Lugano offers 2035 feet of elevation gain and stunning views.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Includes segments that go up or down a series of steps
You may need to carry your bike.
After 15 m for 7 m
After 32.0 km for 7 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
14.0 km
Morcote Village
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
17.8 km
Vico Morcote village and Church of Santa Maria del Sasso
Highlight • Settlement
The old town center of Vico Morcote is very well preserved and is characterized by narrow streets and arcades, buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries and a majestic baroque church in a wonderful panoramic location.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
21.3 km
View of Lake Lugano and Morcote
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
23.2 km
Carona
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
32.0 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
27.4 km
1.76 km
1.50 km
1.25 km
113 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
30.9 km
957 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (660 m)
Lowest point (270 m)
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Weather
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Friday 15 May
18°C
6°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 22.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it typically take to complete this cycling loop?
This touring bicycle loop is estimated to take around 2 hours and 15 minutes to complete. However, this can vary based on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the views.
Is this cycling route suitable for beginners?
No, this route is classified as 'difficult' and demands a very good fitness level. It features a substantial elevation gain of over 620 meters (2,000 feet) over approximately 32 kilometers, making it challenging for beginners.
What kind of terrain can I expect on this cycling route?
The route is predominantly on paved surfaces, making it suitable for touring bikes. However, some segments in the hard routes around Lake Lugano might occasionally include unpaved or difficult sections that could require pushing your bike.
What are the main points of interest along the way?
You'll pass through several charming locations. Notable highlights include the picturesque Morcote Village, Vico Morcote village and Church of Santa Maria del Sasso, and the village of Carona. There are also stunning views of Lake Lugano and Morcote.
What is the best time of year to cycle this route?
The best time to cycle this route is typically during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) months. During these periods, the weather is generally milder and more pleasant for cycling, and the scenery is particularly vibrant.
How can I access the trailhead, and is parking available?
The starting point of this trail is accessible via public transport, which can be a convenient option. While specific parking details for this exact trailhead aren't provided, parking is generally available in the towns and villages around Lake Lugano, though it might require a short ride to the starting point.
Do I need any special permits or pay entrance fees for this cycling loop?
No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this loop. It's an open route through public areas.
Does this cycling route connect with other trails?
Yes, this route intersects with several other paths. Significant portions overlap with the North-South Route (46%), European Long distance path E1 - part Switzerland (20%), and Sentiero Lago di Lugano (20%). You'll also find sections of the Trans Swiss Trail and ViaGottardo.
Are there any notable viewpoints on the route?
Absolutely. The route offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Lugano and the surrounding mountains. A specific highlight is the View of Lake Lugano and Morcote, providing stunning vistas of the lake and the picturesque village.
Are there any cafes or places to rest along the route?
While specific cafes directly on the Monte Pescia section are not detailed, the route passes through several charming villages like Morcote, Vico Morcote, and Carona. These settlements typically offer opportunities for refreshments, cafes, and places to rest.
Is this cycling route suitable for families with children?
Given its 'difficult' classification, significant elevation gain, and demanding nature, this cycling route is generally not recommended for families with young children or those seeking a leisurely ride. It's best suited for experienced touring cyclists with good fitness.
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Trail Reviews
I am preparing for a major mountain challenge and needed some training ground near Lugano. This route I found ideal. Enter anywhere but mind the direction. There are some inclinations that are up to 15% if you go the other direction and I do not recommend these (unless you cheat on the trail with an e-bike :-) I started at Grotto Calprinho - and went up towards Pazzallo and Ciona (take water there) Then via the swimming pool of Corona up the pass road towards Baslona (the road is newly paved and an absolute highlight...) - often when there is a bike race in the Lugano area, they use this stretch for the mountain challenge as well, although it is manageable also for not-so-die-hards... After the Baslona pass downhill you can let it run - and speeds of over 50km/h are easily reached, but it is a curvy road - so your brakes need to be in perfect conditions Along the lake to Figino - there turn to Barbengo (before you start your ascend - get some water again in the little park) The part from Barbengo up towards Agra is pretty steep and long. After Agra and after passsing Montagnola there comes a sign towards Arasio. To find the way is easy -,simply avoid any dead end road - till you come to a sign of a road that tells you that it is only for residents with permit. (perhaps residents need to make a special test to manage this road as it is 15% steep.) and that is hell of a downhill ride. Brakes MUST be in perfect conditions... At the lake side turn left and bike towards Agno - after the restaurant "Padella" turn right up the new bike highway that they opened this year to Capella Agnuzzo (finally this stretch is separated from the busy road) The another short up steep climb up to Gentilino. Leave the Church with its prominent candle-pine alley to your left and take the 2nd road half-left into the residential area of Montagnola. Keep on the one way street. after a slight uphill stretch keep left till you see on the right once again one of those (only with permit) roads. - I don*t know what they have in this community with these type of steep roads - down you end up in the Pian Scairolo - from there you follow the road to Paradiso - (and if you like you can make the loop down to the lakeside again before climbing up the steep stretch after the school to Grotto Calprinho - or you take the shortcut as I did. 39km up and down and a good reason to treat your leg muscles afterwards well....
A bike tour across the Ceresio Peninsula is a good idea if you are on holiday in Lugano or on Lake Lugano. I cannot recommend a circuit directly on the lake shore, because the section between Paradiso and Melide is extremely unattractive for cycling. So something sporty over the two mountain ranges of the Ceresio Peninsula, with the tourist hotspot Morcote and the cultural highlight Montagnola (Hermann Hesse Museum - Hesse lived here for over 40 years). When approaching via Lugano, the first ascent can also be tackled directly from Paradiso. Refreshments are available mainly in Morcote, but also in Carona and Montagnola. More about this tour: https://logbuch-schweiz.net/montagnola-hermann-hesse- Fahrradtour/