The best gravel rides around Aras

Gravel biking around Aras offers a remarkable diversity of landscapes. You'll find routes winding through lush green valleys and dense forests, particularly towards the northern parts of Navarre. The central zones feature picturesque agricultural lands with vineyards and cereal fields that change with the seasons. A unique highlight is the arid badlands of Bardenas Reales, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its 'lunar appearance' and spectacular viewpoints. Many routes also follow rivers and reservoirs, adding to the scenic beauty.

While many routes around Aras are challenging, there are options for varying skill levels. For a moderate ride, consider the Atauri Tunnel – Vasco-Navarro Railway Bridge loop from Santa Cruz de Campezo / Santikurutze Kanpezu, which is about 26.5 km long and takes around 2 hours 32 minutes. This route offers a less demanding experience compared to the more difficult trails in the region.

The region boasts several impressive natural features. You can find routes near the Pyrenean foothills, offering mountainous backdrops. The Urbasa-Andia Mountain Range also features in some routes, providing spectacular territory. For specific viewpoints, consider trails that offer expansive views of the Ebro Valley, such as the View of the Ebro Valley – Logroño Stone Bridge loop from Torres del Río. You can also explore natural monuments like Sleeping Lion Peak or Joar Summit.

Yes, the region is rich in history. Some gravel routes traverse agricultural areas and pass through charming historic towns. For instance, the Viana Historic Centre – Torres del Río loop from Bargota takes you through historic towns, including Viana, which is known for its baroque and renaissance facades. You can also visit the Viana Old Town or the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

The gravel bike trails around Aras are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 9 reviews. Many of the 90+ gravel bikers who have explored the area praise the varied terrain and the diverse scenery, from green valleys to arid badlands, making for a truly engaging cycling adventure.

Yes, many of the gravel routes around Aras are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and end your ride in the same location. Examples include the View of the Ebro Valley – Logroño Stone Bridge loop from Torres del Río, the Viana Historic Centre – Torres del Río loop from Bargota, and the Granada Tunnel – View of the Sierra de Lokiz loop from Desojo.

Navarre's diverse climate means the best time can vary. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures for cycling through green valleys and agricultural lands. For exploring the arid badlands of Bardenas Reales, cooler months outside of peak summer heat are often preferred. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, especially for routes with significant elevation changes.

Experienced gravel riders will find plenty of challenging options around Aras. Many of the routes are rated as difficult, featuring significant elevation changes and varied terrain. The View of the Ebro Valley – Logroño Stone Bridge loop from Torres del Río is a difficult 94.1 km trail with over 1200 meters of elevation gain, taking nearly 7 hours to complete, offering a substantial challenge.

Yes, routes around Aras often wind alongside natural waterways and reservoirs, adding to the scenic beauty and providing opportunities for refreshing stops. The region's geography includes several rivers and reservoirs that feature prominently in the gravel biking network, enhancing the riding experience with varied natural scenery.

Yes, the wider Navarre region, where Aras is located, includes Greenways (Vías Verdes) which are converted decommissioned railway lines. These offer accessible and scenic routes. The Vasco-Navarro Railway Greenway, for example, connects Estella-Lizarra with Vitoria-Gasteiz, showcasing changing landscapes from mountainous to plains, and can be a great option for gravel cyclists looking for smoother, dedicated paths.

There are over 10 gravel bike trails available around Aras, catering to various preferences and skill levels. These include both moderate and difficult routes, ensuring a diverse range of options for exploring the region's unique landscapes.