The best traffic-free bike rides in Redes

Redes Natural Park offers a good selection of no-traffic road cycling routes. You can find over 10 routes specifically designed for a peaceful road cycling experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stunning Asturian landscape without vehicle interruptions.

The no-traffic road cycling routes in Redes cater to various fitness levels. While many routes are classified as moderate, offering a good challenge with significant climbs and descents, there are also some difficult options for experienced cyclists seeking substantial elevation gains. A few easy routes are also available for a more relaxed ride.

Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes in Redes are circular, allowing you to start and end your ride at the same point. For example, the Soto de Agues Village loop from Sobrescobio is a popular moderate circular route, and the Soto de Agues Village – Alto de La Faya de Los Lobos loop from El Condao offers a more challenging circular option.

Redes Natural Park is rich in natural beauty. Along your rides, you can encounter stunning features like the Tabayón del Mongayu Waterfall, a magnificent 60-meter cascade. You might also pass by the picturesque Brañagallones Refuge, a serene meadow amidst forests, or enjoy panoramic vistas from the Texu la Oración Viewpoint. The park's rugged mountainous terrain, carved by rivers like the Nalón, also offers impressive limestone gorges and lush forests.

The best time for no-traffic road cycling in Redes is generally from spring through autumn. Spring brings lush greenery and pleasant temperatures, while autumn offers spectacular foliage, especially in the extensive beech and oak forests. Summers are also suitable, though some climbs can be challenging in warmer weather. Winters can be cold, with higher elevations experiencing snow, making cycling more difficult.

While many routes in Redes involve significant elevation changes, there are options suitable for families looking for a less intense experience. Look for routes classified as easy or moderate with lower elevation gains. For instance, the Roadbike loop from La Casa del Monte is a moderate option with a manageable distance and elevation, which might be suitable for families with some cycling experience.

As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Redes Natural Park boasts incredible biodiversity. While cycling, you'll be surrounded by extensive beech and oak forests, and you might spot various mammals, including protected species like brown bears and wolves (though sightings are rare). The park is also home to a wide array of birds, making it a treat for nature lovers. The pristine environment ensures an immersive experience in untamed nature.

The roads in Redes are generally paved and suitable for road bikes, especially those designated as no-traffic routes. However, due to the mountainous terrain, some sections can be winding with steep ascents and descents. It's worth noting that while most roads are good, some areas might have surfaces that are described as 'very broken,' which could be challenging for road bikes and might be better suited for gravel bikes to avoid punctures or damage.

Parking is typically available in or near the villages that serve as starting points for many routes within Redes Natural Park. For example, you can often find parking facilities in towns like Sobrescobio or El Condao, which are common starting points for routes such as the Soto de Agues Village loop or the San Tirso loop. It's advisable to check specific village amenities before your trip.

Yes, Redes Natural Park encompasses traditional Asturian villages where you can find local amenities. Many villages offer small cafes, restaurants, and rural accommodations (casas rurales) where you can refuel and rest. These establishments often provide a taste of local cuisine and hospitality, making them perfect stops during or after your ride.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Redes, with an average score of 4.1 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the park's stunning, untouched natural beauty, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the peaceful experience of cycling on roads with minimal to no traffic. The dramatic mountain scenery, lush forests, and the sense of immersion in nature are often highlighted as key attractions.