The new circuit e-bike above Lake Como
Esino Lario has just completed a brand-new 22km cycling circuit at 914m above sea level — one of the most scenic cycling routes above Lake Como. The loop winds through alpine meadows, chestnut and conifer forests, historic farmsteads and ridge-top viewpoints with the famous blue lake always in sight below.
Perfect for visitors arriving from Varenna: take the train to Varenna-Esino station, hop on the SP62 bus (30 min, €2.50), pick up your e-bike rental at Ristoro Esino Lario, and start pedalling. The electric assistance makes the route accessible to all fitness levels. In the morning you can hike up on the historic mule tracks from Varenna — and spend the afternoon exploring the 22km circuit on two wheels. Rental e-bikes are available at Ristoro Esino Lario, Via Bigallo 2. Book ahead for weekends: +39 335 292220.
The 22km circuit — stages and highlights
The Esino Lario cycling circuit is a 22km loop that starts and ends in the village centre. The route is waymarked with information panels from the Comune and combines paved sections (approximately 60%) with compact gravel tracks (40%). Total elevation gain is approximately 420 metres up and the same down, distributed progressively. Altitude ranges between 914m and 1,400m a.s.l., with the highest points reached on the traverse towards Alpe Cainallo.
Road surface is in good condition for almost the entire route. Some gravel sections through the woods can have small rough patches after heavy rain. A tyre with a minimum of tread is recommended. The electric assist makes it unnecessary to be a trained cyclist: the steeper uphill sections can be tackled without excessive effort even for those who rarely ride.
Esino Lario — Lombardy Prealps · Lake Como
Stages of the circuit
The complete circuit takes 2.5 – 4 hours by e-bike depending on pace and stops. Those who want only the scenic section (stages 2–3) can opt for the shorter circuit of approximately 11km, ideal for families or those with less time. The route is accessible from April to October; in spring above 1,000m there may be residual snow on some gravel sections.
E-bike Rental in Esino Lario
E-bike rental is managed directly by Ristoro Esino Lario, in the heart of the village. No need to bring your own bike: arrive, rent, and go. The bikes are electric with pedal assist, suited to the municipal circuit. Booking is strongly recommended especially on high-season weekends (June–September) and public holidays.
Getting to Esino Lario
Esino Lario is not directly reachable by train, but the train + bus combination is simple and works well even with a bike. The most scenic and popular option — especially for international visitors — is to hike up from Varenna station on the historic mule tracks (2h30', 550m elevation gain) and return to Varenna by bus in the late afternoon.
Suggested daily itinerary
The mule track + e-bike + bus combination is the perfect itinerary for a day visit. Here is how to make the most of your time in Esino Lario.
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 07:45 | Morning Train from Milano Centrale to Varenna | Arrival in Varenna approx. 09:05. Regional train; bike with separate ticket. |
| 09:15 | Morning Walk up · Mule track from Varenna | 6.5km, 550m elevation gain. Historic cobbled route through the forest. Bring water (1.5L) and hiking shoes. |
| 11:45 | Morning Arrival in Esino Lario | Entering the village through the historic lavatoio di San Giovanni in Esino Inferiore. |
| 12:30 | Lunch Ristoro Esino Lario · Via Bigallo 2 | Lunch and e-bike rental in the same place. Book ahead for a table and a bike. |
| 14:00 | Afternoon E-bike circuit 22km | Full loop in 3–3.5h. Compulsory photo stop at Alpe Cainallo (1,400m). |
| 17:30 | Return Return e-bike · Aperitivo | Back to Ristoro Esino Lario. Aperitivo with lake views before the bus. |
| 18:10 | Bus Bus SP62 Esino Lario → Varenna | 30 minutes of scenic descent. From Varenna FS take the train back to Milan / Lecco / Como. |
SP62 bus timetables vary by season. Check at autolineevaresina.it or call Ristoro Esino Lario to confirm the day's services. Train timetables at trenitalia.com.
Combine with...
Esino Lario has much more to offer. Pair the e-bike circuit with these experiences for a complete visit.