Onno-Ghisallino E-Bike & Road Bike Tour

If you’re considering a cycling adventure around Italy’s famed Lake Como, the Onno-Ghisallino E-Bike & Road Bike Tour offers a fantastic way to see the sights without the fatigue of traditional cycling. Designed for a broad range of riders—from those new to e-bikes to seasoned road cyclists—this 4.5-hour guided loop provides a balanced mix of breathtaking scenery, cultural sights, and a healthy dose of exercise.

What we love about this experience is how accessible and well-organized it is, making it a practical choice for travelers who want a guided, scenery-rich ride without the hassle of planning logistics. Plus, the inclusion of the Madonna di Ghisallo Cycling Museum and Chapel adds a cultural and historical dimension to the day. One possible consideration is that the ride covers approximately 35 km with around 700 meters of elevation gain, which might be challenging for absolute beginners or those with mobility issues. This tour is best suited for anyone eager to combine physical activity with authentic and picturesque Lake Como views.

Key Points

• Accessible for All: Suitable for both electric bike riders and traditional cyclists, with guidance on how to operate the e-bike.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy lakeside panoramas and high valley vistas that capture Lake Como’s natural beauty.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit the Madonna di Ghisallo Cycling Museum and Chapel, a must-see for cycling fans and history buffs.
• Balanced Distance & Elevation: Approximately 35 km with 700 m of climbing, making for a moderate, rewarding ride.
• All-Inclusive Price: Bike rental, a knowledgeable guide, and museum entry are included, providing excellent value.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now with the option to pay later, with a full refund available if you cancel 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Starting Point: Warm Welcome and Easy Introduction

The tour kicks off at a friendly local bike shop in Bellagio, where the staff will introduce you to your e-bike or road bike. You’ll get a quick rundown of how the bikes work—no previous experience necessary—making this accessible for first-timers. We liked how the process felt informal yet professional, setting the tone for a relaxed, enjoyable ride.

The Scenic Lakeside Ride: Close-Up Views of Lake Como

Soon after leaving the shop, you’ll find yourself riding along the iconic Lakeside Road. This stretch offers awe-inspiring views of shimmering waters flanked by lush mountains, with plenty of opportunities to pause and soak in the scenery. The ride is designed to be enjoyable and manageable, with gentle undulations that allow you to take in the landscape without feeling overwhelmed.

The route is perfect for those who appreciate the quieter side of Lake Como, passing through charming towns and offering glimpses of local life. Several reviewers mention how stunning the views are, emphasizing the “breathtaking glimpses of the lake” that make the effort worthwhile.

Climbing Up to the High Valleys: A Moderate Challenge

One of the highlights occurs as you tackle two notable climbs: one up to the town of Ghisallo and another to Ghisallino. These climbs are considered part of the historic Lake Como cycling community, and they give a real sense of achievement.

The first climb leads to a special fountain built in honor of cyclists, where you can stop, hydrate, and enjoy the sense of accomplishment. The Ghisallino ascent is more of a highlight because it culminates at the Madonna di Ghisallo Chapel and Museum—a pilgrimage site for cycling fans and a symbol of the sport’s deep roots in the area.

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The Madonna di Ghisallo Museum and Chapel: A Cultural Icon

No cycling tour here would be complete without visiting this special site. The Chapel, perched atop the Ghisallino climb, is dedicated to Saint Christopher and has become a shrine for cyclists worldwide. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of cycling memorabilia—jerseys, bikes, and photographs—offering insight into the sport’s history in Italy and beyond.

Visitors often comment on how “it’s an inspiring spot, even for non-cyclists,” and some find it to be a surprisingly moving cultural experience. The entrance is included in the tour price, adding significant value.

Returning to Bellagio: A Rewarding Finish

After exploring the museum and chapel, you’ll descend back toward Bellagio, completing a loop that offers a complete picture of Lake Como’s scenic and cultural offerings. The ride back is typically downhill or flat, allowing you to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights.

The Practical Aspects: What You Need to Know

Booking and Price

For $141.61 per person, the tour includes bike rental, a guided experience in English, and entry to the museum and chapel. Considering the inclusions, this represents very good value, especially when you factor in the convenience of a guided ride and the access to cultural sites.

You can reserve your spot with confidence, thanks to the pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. This flexibility is ideal for travelers with uncertain schedules or those who want to plan ahead without immediate financial commitment.

Timing and Duration

The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, with departures typically scheduled around 9:30 am, allowing for a comfortable morning ride. Participants are advised to arrive at the shop by 9:00-9:15 am for a prompt start. Tours generally return between 1:00 and 2:00 pm, leaving plenty of time afterward to explore Bellagio or the surrounding area.

The Bikes and Riding Conditions

The bikes provided are modern e-bikes, easy to operate, with guides showing you how to use the assist features. The route takes place mainly on car roads that are historic cycling routes—so you’ll be riding in traffic, but the group sizes are manageable, and the pace is leisurely.

The ride covers about 35 km with roughly 700 meters of climbing, making it suitable for most riders who are comfortable on a bicycle. The tour is not recommended for children under 10, but older kids and teens with cycling experience should be fine.

What to Bring and Wear

Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Since you’ll be outdoors most of the time, consider bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, or a hat. The tour is not suitable for high-heeled shoes or bare feet—obvious but worth noting.

Additional Tips

Arrive early to settle in and get accustomed to the bikes. The tour takes place on roads shared with cars, so attentive riding is advised. Since the guide is English-speaking, communication is straightforward, and you can ask questions along the way.

Authentic Experiences and What Travelers Are Saying

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who make the ride both fun and informative. One traveler mentioned, “The guide was fantastic—friendly, informative, and made everyone feel comfortable.” Others rave about the stunning vistas, with comments like, “The views of Lake Como from the high valleys are simply unforgettable.”

Several reviewers appreciate the good value for what is included—bike, guide, museum visits—and note how the ride balances exercise with sightseeing. The moderate difficulty makes it accessible but still rewarding, and many say it’s a highlight of their trip to Lombardy.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This ride is perfect for cycling enthusiasts who want a scenic, cultural experience without overly strenuous climbs. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate a guided experience, want to learn about local cycling culture, and enjoy picturesque lakeside landscapes.

If you’re traveling with family members who are comfortable on bikes, this could be a memorable way to explore Lake Como. Conversely, if you have mobility or health concerns with climbing, consider your fitness level before booking. The overall tone and organization make this appealing to anyone eager to combine active sightseeing with cultural highlights.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In our view, the Onno-Ghisallino E-Bike & Road Bike Tour offers a well-rounded experience of Lake Como’s natural beauty and cultural richness. The inclusion of museum entry and a knowledgeable guide makes it a smart choice for value-conscious travelers seeking authentic experiences. The scenery—both lakeside and high valley—will linger in your memory long after the ride ends.

The tour is best suited for active travelers who want an immersive, scenic adventure without the hassle of planning each detail. The moderate distance and manageable climbs make it accessible for most, and the cultural stops add depth to the journey. For those who want to see Lake Como from a different perspective—on two wheels—this ride delivers on both views and storytelling.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 10 years old. Older kids and teenagers with cycling experience can generally join, provided they’re comfortable on bikes and capable of handling the moderate climbs.

Do I need to bring my own bike?
No. Bikes—including e-bikes—are provided as part of the tour, along with a guide to help you operate the bike controls.

What if I’ve never ridden an e-bike before?
No worries. The guide will show you how to use the e-bike, and the ride is designed to be accessible for beginners. The assist makes climbing easier.

How physically demanding is the ride?
It covers about 35 km with roughly 700 meters of elevation gain. It’s moderate—manageable for most people in decent shape, but not suitable for those with mobility issues.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, or a hat for sun protection.

What’s included in the price?
Bike rental (e-bike or road bike), a guided tour in English, and entry to the Madonna di Ghisallo Museum and Chapel.

This tour packs a lot of value into a half-day adventure, blending stunning scenery, cultural highlights, and active exploration—perfect for making your Lake Como trip truly memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: