The best traffic-free bike rides around Ezkurra

Ezkurra offers a diverse selection of over 20 no-traffic touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 6 moderate and 15 difficult options, ensuring a suitable ride for most touring cyclists.

The terrain around Ezkurra is quite varied. You'll find mostly flat and accessible paths along greenways, utilizing old railway lines like the Plazaola Greenway. However, the region also features mountainous environments with significant elevation gains on some routes, especially those venturing into native forests. Expect a mix of smooth surfaces on greenways and potentially more rugged paths on routes exploring higher elevations.

Yes, Ezkurra offers several circular routes designed for touring cyclists seeking a loop. For example, the moderate-difficulty Plazaola Greenway – Santa Cruz Tunnel loop from Leitza provides a scenic ride. Another option is the more challenging Witches' Bridge – Leitzaran River Valley loop from Leitza.

Ezkurra's routes are rich in natural beauty and historical charm. You can cycle through the famous Bartolo Tunnel on the Plazaola Greenway, or discover the stunning Ixkier Waterfall on a loop from Basaburua. The region also features numerous single-arch stone bridges, native forests, and panoramic views from various summits.

Yes, the region's greenways, particularly the Plazaola Greenway, are known for their tunnels. The Bartolo Tunnel, which is 235 meters long, is a notable feature on routes like the Bartolo Tunnel – San Miguel de Aralar Sanctuary loop from Leitza. Cyclists should consider bringing personal lighting for these sections.

The best time to go touring cycling in Ezkurra is generally during the spring and autumn months. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and lush landscapes, ideal for enjoying the region's greenways and forest paths. While summer can also be good, it might be warmer, and winter can bring colder temperatures and potentially challenging conditions on higher routes.

The Plazaola Greenway is an excellent choice for families and beginners. Its mostly flat and accessible path, built on an old railway line, offers gentle, consistent slopes. Routes like the Plazaola Greenway – Santa Cruz Tunnel loop from Leitza are moderate in difficulty and provide a good introduction to touring cycling in the region without significant traffic.

The touring cycling routes around Ezkurra are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 68 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's quiet greenways, the scenic beauty of the native forests, and the unique experience of cycling through old railway tunnels.

Access points to the Plazaola Greenway, a key no-traffic route, often have designated parking areas. For example, towns like Leitza and Lekunberri, which serve as starting points for many routes, typically offer parking facilities for visitors looking to explore the greenway and surrounding trails.

Yes, experienced touring cyclists will find plenty of challenging options in Ezkurra. Many routes feature significant elevation gains and cover longer distances. For instance, the Traditional Oven in Erbiti – Alto de Etxaleku loop from Basaburua is a difficult route with over 1000 meters of elevation gain, offering a demanding yet rewarding experience.

While Ezkurra is nestled in a more rural area, some towns near the greenways, such as Lekunberri, may have public transport connections. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for routes connecting to major towns like Leitza or Lekunberri, which are common starting points for the no-traffic cycling trails, especially the Plazaola Greenway.