The best traffic-free bike rides in Álava

Álava offers a wide selection of routes for gravel biking, with over 130 tours available that prioritize minimal traffic. These routes traverse diverse landscapes, from the green plains to mountainous regions and vineyard areas.

You'll experience a rich variety of landscapes. Routes can take you through the humid Atlantic climates of the north, the expansive crop fields of the Llanada Alavesa, the forested Alavese Mountains, or the renowned vineyards of Alavese Rioja in the south. Many trails also pass through protected natural parks and along reservoirs.

Yes, Álava has options suitable for families. The Garaio Footbridge – Azua Footbridge loop from Vitoria-Gasteiz is a moderate route that offers scenic views around the Ullibarri-Gamboa Reservoir, which is generally popular for its accessible paths. The Vitoria-Gasteiz Green Belt also provides easy and safe cycling routes connecting the city to natural spaces.

Absolutely. Many of Álava's gravel routes are designed as loops to enhance the cycling experience. For example, the Ullibarri-Gamboa Reservoir loop from Mendixur offers a scenic circular ride around the reservoir. The "Gran Ruta de la Llanada Alavesa" is also a 117-kilometer circular path with generally flat terrain.

Álava's trails often pass by significant natural and historical sites. You might encounter the unique canyon and artificial caves in Izki Natural Park, or the ancient oak groves of Gorbeia Natural Park. Some routes offer views of mountain peaks like Ganalto Summit Cross or the Gorbea Summit. The region also features Romanesque art, megalithic monuments, and sections of the Camino de Santiago.

Yes, Álava has repurposed several old routes into green itineraries. A notable example is the Vasco-Navarro Railway Bridge – Atauri Tunnel loop from Vitoria-Gasteiz, which follows a section of the disused Vasco-Navarro Railway, offering a unique historical cycling experience.

The varied climate of Álava means different seasons offer different experiences. Spring and autumn generally provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, ideal for exploring. Summer can be warm, especially in the drier southern parts, while winter can bring cooler, wetter conditions, particularly in the Atlantic-influenced north.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Álava, with an average score of 4.58 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of quiet trails, the stunning diversity of landscapes from vineyards to mountains, and the feeling of immersion in nature away from car traffic.

Yes, Álava offers routes with significant elevation gain and technical sections for advanced riders. The Marqués de Riscal Hotel – Elciego Wineries loop from Laguardia is a challenging route that takes you through the hilly vineyard landscapes of Rioja Alavesa, featuring substantial climbs and descents.

Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital, serves as a good starting point for many routes and is well-connected by public transport. From there, you can often reach trailheads or connect to routes like those around the Ullibarri-Gamboa Reservoir or the Vitoria-Gasteiz Green Belt, which are easily accessible from the city.

Yes, you can definitely explore the Alavese Rioja wine region on gravel. Routes like the Elciego Wineries – Marqués de Riscal Hotel loop from Elciego take you directly through the picturesque vineyards, offering a unique blend of cycling and wine country scenery.