The best traffic-free bike rides around Sierra De Aralar

Komoot offers over a dozen dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Sierra de Aralar. These routes are designed to provide a serene cycling experience away from vehicular traffic, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty.

The Sierra de Aralar features diverse terrain, from rugged karstic mountains and dramatic rock grooves to lush beech forests and serene meadows. While many routes feature mostly paved surfaces ideal for touring, some may include unpaved segments. Expect a mix of challenging climbs and scenic descents, with prominent peaks like Txindoki providing dramatic backdrops.

While most of the no-traffic touring routes in Sierra de Aralar are rated as difficult, there are some moderate options. For a more relaxed experience, consider routes that incorporate sections of the Plazaola Greenway. One moderate option is the Cantina del Plazaola – Uitzi Tunnel loop from Lekunberri, which offers a shorter distance and less elevation gain.

Many routes offer breathtaking views of the karstic landscape and lush forests. A popular destination is the historic San Miguel de Aralar Sanctuary, an 11th-century Romanesque church accessible via a rewarding climb. You might also encounter ancient dolmens and traditional shepherd's huts. For a unique experience, some routes pass through the Bartolo Tunnel on the Plazaola Greenway, though you should bring your own lighting.

Yes, several routes feature the beautiful Ixkier Waterfall. For example, the challenging Incredible views – Ixkier Waterfall loop from Azpirotz offers stunning vistas and a visit to the waterfall. Another option is the Ixkier Waterfall – Plazaiola Greenway loop from Lekunberri.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring routes in Sierra de Aralar are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Arbizu Eco-Camping loop from Ergoiena and the Ixkier Waterfall – San Miguel de Aralar Sanctuary loop from Lekunberri.

Sierra de Aralar offers beautiful cycling conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with beech forests displaying spectacular colors. From May to November, you'll also see Latxa sheep, dairy cattle, and wild horses grazing in the pastures, adding to the pastoral charm. Summers can be warm, but the extensive forests offer welcome shade on many routes.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Sierra de Aralar, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the no-traffic routes, the stunning natural beauty of the karstic mountains and forests, and the rewarding climbs to scenic viewpoints and historical sites like the San Miguel de Aralar Sanctuary.

Yes, the Lizarrusti Visitor Centre, located at the Lizarrusti Pass, serves as an information hub and includes a restaurant and hostel. Additionally, towns and villages within and around the park, such as Lekunberri, offer cultural experiences and local gastronomy, including the famous Idiazabal cheese.

Sierra de Aralar is a Special Conservation Zone, home to diverse wildlife. While cycling, you might spot griffon vultures soaring overhead, golden eagles, wild boar, and roe deer. The quiet nature of the no-traffic routes increases your chances of observing these animals in their natural habitat.

Given the mountainous terrain, many routes involve significant elevation gain, making them physically demanding. Some segments may be unpaved, requiring suitable tires and bike handling skills. If your route includes tunnels on the Plazaola Greenway, remember to bring your own lighting as they may not be illuminated.