The best traffic-free bike rides around Cartes
4.8
(8)
38
riders
8
rides
Gravel biking around Cartes, located in Cantabria, Spain, offers access to diverse terrain suitable for no traffic gravel cycling. The region is characterized by green meadows, paths tracing the Besaya River, and views influenced by the Cantabrian Mountains. This varied topography provides a mix of unpaved surfaces and natural features, creating a suitable environment for gravel bike trails.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Cartes
- The most popular no traffic gravel bike trail is Onzapera Cove – Santillana del…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
5.0
(1)
7
riders
25.9km
01:52
490m
490m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
7
riders
28.2km
01:50
340m
340m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
3
riders
47.0km
03:45
890m
890m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
riders
37.4km
02:35
580m
580m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
39.6km
03:22
920m
920m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Cartes
Tips from the Community
I walked down the street while I was doing the Besaya Green Route.
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Quiet place, interesting views.
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This simple but atmospheric statue of Francis of Assisi stands along the Camino del Norte in Viveda. In 1214, St Francis of Assisi slept in Viveda on his pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.
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Beautiful hermitage located on the slopes of Monte Corona
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Surrounded by rocks, it is a very wild and beautiful place. They say that when the water is calm you can take a nice swim, but in my case, I couldn't enjoy it, although I did enjoy its beauty.
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The Casa Palacio that the Ceballos had in Barros is today owned by Mr. Herrero and Mr. Martínez de Azcoitia. It is a beautiful mountain architectural complex with a portal between cylindrical cubes, a typical mansion and a chapel. It was restored a few years ago by the current owners who have managed to give its interior a stately and period atmosphere. It dates back to the beginning of the 18th century.
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Giant Barros Stele: Located in the town of Barros, municipality of Los Corrales de Buelna, Cantabria. The Cantabrian Steles found next to the hermitage of the Virgen de la Rueda, in the town of Barros, and the two found in the Lombera neighbourhood, are displayed in a permanent exhibition next to the aforementioned hermitage in what is known as the Parque de las Estelas de Cantabria. These are circular pieces that preserve the base pier, 0.80 metres wide, for vertical placement. The largest one (Barros II), between 2.15 and 2.46 metres in diameter and weighing 3,000 kilos, was found in fragments in 1977 between the walls of the chapel of Nuestra Señora de la Rueda de Barros and was rebuilt in 1999. The Cantabrian stele known as Barros I, also called the Wheel of Santa Catalina or the Wheel of the Virgin, is smaller in size, but its dimensions are still spectacular: 1.75 metres in diameter and 32 centimetres thick. Made of sandstone, easy to work, like the previous one, it has a geometric decoration. Although interpreted by some as religious or funerary testimonies, the steles displayed in the Parque de las Estelas de Cantabria continue to offer researchers numerous questions about their functionality and chronology. There is a possibility that they may belong to the Roman period or even later. They were declared a Site of Cultural Interest in 1985 and since then their image has been part of the coat of arms of Cantabria. Information from: https://www.cantabriarural.com/lugares-de-interes/parque-de-las-estelas-de-cantabria.html
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A good place to stop along the way
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Cartes?
There are several dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Cartes, offering a great way to explore the region's natural beauty. This guide features 6 such routes, all designed for gravel biking away from vehicular traffic.
Are there any easy no-traffic gravel bike trails suitable for beginners or families in Cartes?
The no-traffic gravel bike trails featured in this guide are generally rated as 'difficult' due to their length, elevation gain, or technical sections. While they offer beautiful scenery, beginners or families with young children might find them challenging. It's recommended to review the route details carefully before setting out.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these traffic-free gravel bike routes?
The routes around Cartes traverse a diverse range of landscapes. You'll experience green meadows, paths tracing the scenic Besaya River, and some routes offer views of the Zapedo marsh loop. The wider Cantabrian region, which influences the areas around Cartes, also provides a backdrop of mountains and valleys, ensuring a varied and engaging ride.
Are there any circular no-traffic gravel bike routes around Cartes?
Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel bike routes around Cartes are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Onzapera Cove – Santillana del Mar loop from Santillana del Mar is a great option for a circular ride, taking you through varied terrain and coastal views.
What are some interesting places to see or attractions near the no-traffic gravel bike trails?
Many routes offer proximity to historical and natural attractions. You could explore the charming Santillana del Mar Historic Town Centre, visit the impressive Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, or enjoy the coastal beauty of Santa Justa Beach. For those interested in prehistory, the National Museum and Research Center of Altamira is also nearby.
What is the best time of year to gravel bike in Cartes?
Gravel biking in Cartes is enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While the region can be ridden in winter, be prepared for cooler, potentially wetter conditions. Summers are generally warm and sunny, but it's always wise to check local weather forecasts before your ride.
Are there any routes that offer coastal views or access to beaches?
Yes, some of the no-traffic gravel routes extend towards the coast, offering stunning views of the Cantabrian Sea. The Santa Justa Beach – Onzapera Cove loop from Torrelavega-Centro is an excellent example, allowing you to combine gravel riding with the refreshing coastal atmosphere and even pass by Santa Justa Beach.
What do other gravel bikers say about the no-traffic trails around Cartes?
The no-traffic gravel bike trails around Cartes are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 5.0 stars. Riders often praise the tranquility of the routes, the diverse scenery ranging from river paths to coastal views, and the opportunity to explore the region's natural and historical gems away from traffic.
Can I find routes that follow river paths or greenways?
Absolutely. The region around Cartes is known for its green meadows and paths that trace the Besaya River. The Saja River Cycle Path – Santa Justa Beach loop from Sierrapando is a prime example, incorporating a dedicated cycle path along the Saja River, offering a serene and traffic-free experience.
Are there any routes with significant elevation gain for a challenging ride?
Yes, if you're looking for a challenge, the routes around Cartes offer considerable elevation gain. For instance, the Alto de San Cipriano – Pico del Palo de Ibio loop from Santa Isabel features over 900 meters of ascent, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience with panoramic views.
Where can I find parking for these no-traffic gravel bike routes?
Many of the routes start from towns or villages like Santillana del Mar, Torrelavega, or Santa Isabel, where public parking is generally available. It's advisable to check specific parking options for your chosen starting point before your trip, especially during peak season.
Most popular attractions around Cartes
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