The best cycling routes around La Sotonera

There are over 130 touring cycling routes available in La Sotonera, offering a wide variety of experiences for different skill levels.

La Sotonera offers a diverse range of routes. You'll find 32 easy routes, 64 moderate routes, and 43 difficult routes, ensuring options for beginners to experienced cyclists. For example, the Arguis Reservoir Loop is considered difficult, featuring significant elevation gain.

The centerpiece of the region is the Embalse de la Sotonera (La Sotonera Reservoir), which you can cycle around. You'll also encounter other beautiful lakes like Arguis Reservoir, Montearagón Reservoir, and Valdabra Reservoir. The area also features dramatic landscapes such as the Gorgas de San Julián and the Riglos Griffon Vulture Viewing Area, offering stunning views.

The region is generally pleasant for cycling from late winter to early autumn. The Embalse de la Sotonera is particularly notable in late winter and early autumn when thousands of cranes migrate through, offering unique wildlife viewing opportunities. Be aware that some sections near the reservoir might be muddy after rain.

Yes, the circular route around the Embalse de la Sotonera is generally considered to have low technical difficulty, making it suitable for families or those looking for a leisurely ride. It's approximately 33 km long with a moderate elevation gain.

Absolutely. A popular option is the scenic circular route around the Embalse de la Sotonera itself, which is well-suited for both mountain biking and gravel cycling. Other routes like the Plaza de Luis López Allué – Montearagón Castle loop from Lierta also offer a circular experience.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, the scenic views around the reservoir, and the variety of routes catering to different skill levels.

For experienced cyclists looking for a challenge, the Pico del Águila – Punta del Águila loop from Arguis is a difficult route covering over 32 km with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Dolmen de Belsué – Old Lúsera-Belsué Trail 2 loop from Arguis.

Yes, the Embalse de la Sotonera is a crucial wetland and a fantastic spot for wildlife observation, especially for birdwatching. Thousands of cranes visit during their migratory routes in late winter and early autumn. The Riglos Griffon Vulture Viewing Area is also nearby for observing birds of prey.

Beyond cycling, you can explore historical landmarks like Loarre Castle and Huesca Cathedral, or natural wonders such as the Mallos de Riglos. The region also offers opportunities for trekking, rafting on the Gállego River, and exploring various gorges like the Gorgas de San Julián.

Yes, the terrain around La Sotonera includes flat tracks and trails, making it suitable for gravel cycling and some mountain biking. The circular route around the Embalse de la Sotonera, for instance, includes sections of track that are not fully paved.