The best cycling routes around Izkiko parke naturala/Parque Natural de Izkiz

There are over 50 touring cycling routes available in Izkiko parke naturala/Parque Natural de Izkiz, catering to various skill levels. The komoot community has rated these routes highly, with an average score of 4.6 stars.

Izki Natural Park offers diverse terrain for touring cyclists. You'll encounter extensive Pyrenean oak forests, limestone mountains, and river gorges. Routes often feature a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, including sections of the former Vasco-Navarra Railway, now converted into a Greenway, and parts of the GR-38, known as the 'Route of wine and fish'.

Yes, Izki Natural Park offers routes suitable for families. While many routes are moderate to difficult, there are 2 easy routes among the total of 53. These easier paths often follow gentler gradients, making them ideal for a relaxed family outing. For specific details, you can explore options like the Arquijas Tunnel – Arquijas Viaduct loop from Maestu/Maeztu, which is rated as moderate but utilizes former railway lines, often providing a smoother experience.

The park is rich in natural beauty and historical landmarks. You can cycle past the stunning Izki Gorge and reach the Izki Gorge Viewpoint. Other notable features include impressive rock formations like La Muela and Soila, and the highest point, Mount Kapildui. The park also boasts waterfalls, lagoons, and ancient yew trees. You might also encounter the hermits' caves of Laño, Faido, and Marquínez, which are part of the park's extensive cultural heritage.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Izki Natural Park are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Popular examples include the Arquijas Tunnel – Arquijas Viaduct loop from Arabako Mendialdea and the Korres Village – Izki Gorge Viewpoint loop from San Román de Campezo / Durruma Kanpezu. These circular routes offer varied scenery without the need for backtracking.

Izki Natural Park is enjoyable for touring cycling across multiple seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, making them ideal. Summer can also be good, especially in the shaded forest areas. While winter cycling is possible, some trails might be affected by weather conditions, so it's advisable to check local forecasts and trail status before heading out.

Generally, Izki Natural Park is welcoming to dogs, but it's important to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near livestock. Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and doesn't disturb other visitors or the natural environment. Check for any specific signage on individual trails regarding dog policies.

Parking is available at various access points to Izki Natural Park. The charming medieval village of Korres, which also houses an Information Centre, serves as an excellent starting point and typically has parking facilities. The Izki Mountain Alavesa BTT Center, located at the Urturi golf course, also offers parking and services for cyclists.

Yes, the Izki Mountain Alavesa BTT Center, with a welcome point at the Urturi golf course, provides services specifically for cyclists. These include bike rental (including electric bikes), showers, GPS rental, and bike washing facilities. The village of Korres also has an Information Centre.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Izki Natural Park offers numerous difficult routes. Out of the 53 available routes, 39 are rated as difficult. An example is the Mojon Alto Trail Junction – Marquínez loop from Arabako Mendialdea, which features significant elevation gain and covers varied terrain, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience.

While direct public transport options into the heart of Izki Natural Park might be limited, you can often reach nearby towns and villages by bus, and then cycle into the park. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for routes serving communities like Korres or Maestu/Maeztu, which are common starting points for exploring the park.

Sections of the former Vasco-Navarra Railway, now converted into a Greenway, offer a unique cycling experience. These routes, such as parts of the Atauri Tunnel – Atauri Viaduct loop from Arabako Mendialdea, often feature gentler gradients than typical roads, making for a smoother ride. They also pass through historical tunnels and over viaducts, providing interesting architectural and scenic elements to your tour.