The best traffic-free bike rides around Esponellà
4.3
(84)
2,372
riders
112
rides
Gravel biking around Esponellà offers diverse landscapes for cyclists seeking routes away from traffic. The region features expansive green fields, pine and oak forests, and the Fluvià River, providing varied terrain from smooth paths to more challenging forest trails. Located north of Lake Banyoles, Esponellà serves as a gateway to this significant natural attraction, with routes often incorporating its shores. The area's blend of rural charm and natural features makes it suitable for exploring on gravel bikes.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Esponellà
- The most popular no traffic gravel bike trail is Lake Banyoles – Lake Banyoles loop from Orfes, a 36.4 miles (58.7 km) trail that takes 4 hours 1 minute to complete. This difficult route offers extensive views around the largest natural lake in Catalonia.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Lake Banyoles – Lake Banyoles loop from Maià de Montcal, a difficult 31.0 miles (49.9 km) path. This route provides varied scenery through rural landscapes surrounding the lake.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Lake Banyoles – Saint Mary of Porqueres loop from Serinyà, a 19.5 miles (31.3 km) trail leading through the area around Lake Banyoles, often completed in about 1 hour 49 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Esponellà is defined by expansive green fields, pine and oak forests, and the Fluvià River, with routes offering options for different ability levels from moderate to difficult.
- The routes in Esponellà are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 60 reviews. More than 2000 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Esponellà's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
5.0
(1)
35
riders
58.7km
04:02
700m
700m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(7)
88
riders
49.9km
03:17
550m
550m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
72
riders
48.4km
03:23
930m
930m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
21
riders
43.2km
03:00
590m
590m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
43.6km
03:29
590m
590m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Esponellà
Tips from the Community
The monastery of Sant Pere was founded in 977 by Bishop-Count Miró I and consecrated in 1003 by Count Bernhard I, also known as Taillefer. A Benedictine community of twelve monks lived there. However, with Count Taillefer's death in 1020, the decline of the count's rule began, culminating in its final demise in 1111. From then on, the abbot of the monastery became the highest authority over the population, which gave the Church considerable political influence in the 12th and 13th centuries.
5
0
Another cute little Catalan village but it's sleepy with very little life. Have a look but not worth a stop.
0
0
Splendid. Walk around the pond, almost entirely shaded. No difficulty, accessible to children, whether on foot or by bike. Possibility of supervised swimming.
2
0
Beautiful nice place for a family vacation. Nice cycling route.
0
0
Crossing the Besalú bridge is buying a ticket to the Middle Ages. But its excellent state of conservation is a consequence of the fact that it was frequently remodeled in more recent times, after the usual floods of the Fluvià. One of the last, in the 40s, destroyed it when it was still battered by the Civil War, with two of its arches dynamited. The slenderness of the bridge is due precisely to the fact that it was designed to prevent the force of the water from also damaging the town houses that, in the 11th century, stood on both banks. If you arrive at Besalú by car, it is worth stopping first at a lesser-known and also spectacular medieval bridge, that of Llierca.
1
0
The Old Bridge is known for its Romanesque architecture and for being one of the most iconic images of Besalú, offering a picturesque view of the medieval city. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IGr8-EpFE9k
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many traffic-free gravel bike trails are available around Esponellà?
There are over 90 traffic-free gravel bike trails around Esponellà, offering a wide range of options for cyclists. While many routes present a challenge, there are also moderate options for those seeking a less strenuous ride.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Esponellà?
The ideal times for gravel biking in Esponellà are from March to June and again from September to November. The region experiences mild winters and warm summers, making these periods perfect for enjoying the diverse landscapes.
Are there any moderate no-traffic gravel routes suitable for those looking for a less challenging ride?
Yes, there are 20 moderate traffic-free gravel routes around Esponellà. One such option is the Lake Banyoles – Saint Mary of Porqueres loop from Serinyà, which offers a pleasant ride with manageable elevation changes.
What kind of natural attractions can I see along the gravel bike trails?
The trails around Esponellà offer access to stunning natural features. You can cycle near Lake Banyoles, the largest non-coastal natural lake in Catalonia, or explore areas with unique geological formations like the Travertine Formations at Les Estunes. The Fluvià River also offers picturesque sections, and in wetter periods, the Espolla Waterfall can be a beautiful sight.
Are there any historical landmarks or points of interest accessible from the routes?
Absolutely. The region is rich in history. You can discover various castles, such as Palol de Revardit Castle and Church, or the Palol de Revardit Castle itself. The nearby village of Besalú boasts the impressive Romanesque bridge (Pont Vell), a significant architectural work over the Fluvià river.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes around Esponellà?
Many of the gravel routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Lake Banyoles – Lake Banyoles loop from Orfes is a challenging but rewarding circular route that takes you around the scenic lake.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the trails in Esponellà?
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Esponellà, with an average score of 4.65 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrains, from rolling plains to dense forests, and the extensive network of quiet gravel roads that make it a true 'Gravel Walhalla'.
Are there any routes that offer panoramic views?
For those seeking breathtaking vistas, the Mare de Déu del Mont Summit, accessible from the Esponellà area, offers panoramic views over the Garrotxa region, the Pyrenees, and the Mediterranean Sea. While challenging, the reward is well worth the effort.
Is it possible to combine gravel biking with exploring local villages or towns?
Yes, the routes often pass through or near charming villages. The Crespià – Sant Martí de Crespià Church loop from Maià de Montcal, for instance, allows you to experience the local architecture and atmosphere of Crespià and its historic church.
What are the typical distances and durations for gravel bike routes in this area?
The routes vary significantly in length and duration. You can find rides ranging from around 30 km, like the Lake Banyoles – Saint Mary of Porqueres loop (approx. 1 hour 50 minutes), to longer, more challenging tours exceeding 50 km, such as the Lake Banyoles – Lake Banyoles loop from Maià de Montcal, which can take over 3 hours.
Where can I find parking for gravel biking near Esponellà?
While specific parking spots for each trail are not listed, Esponellà and nearby towns like Maià de Montcal, Orfes, and Serinyà, which serve as starting points for many routes, typically offer public parking options. It's advisable to check local parking availability upon arrival.
Most popular attractions around Esponellà
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Gravel rides in other regions.
