The best traffic-free bike rides around Montaña Alavesa

Montaña Alavesa offers a diverse selection of touring cycling routes designed to keep you away from traffic. There are 12 such routes documented, ranging from moderate to difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.

While many routes are rated difficult, the region does offer sections suitable for families, particularly along greenways. The Arquijas Tunnel – Arquijas Viaduct loop from Santa Cruz de Campezo / Santikurutze Kanpezu is a moderate option that utilizes parts of the former railway lines, providing a smoother, traffic-free experience. Always check the route details for elevation and distance to ensure it suits your family's abilities.

The no-traffic touring routes in Montaña Alavesa traverse a varied landscape. You'll find sections along historical greenways, such as the Basque-Navarre Greenway, offering relatively flat and well-maintained paths. Other routes will take you through small valleys and mountains, featuring lush green forests, prairies, and limestone formations, with some significant elevation gains. Expect a mix of paved and well-compacted gravel surfaces.

Yes, Montaña Alavesa features several excellent circular routes designed for touring cyclists seeking a car-free experience. A notable example is the Vasco-Navarro Greenway: Campezo Loop, which offers a substantial ride while keeping you on dedicated paths. Another option is the Valle de Lana from Santa Cruz de Campezo – circular by the Vía Verde del FFCC Vasco-Navarro.

Montaña Alavesa's no-traffic routes often pass through or near significant natural and historical sites. You can explore the diverse flora and fauna of Izki Natural Park, encounter rivers, waterfalls, and streams, and even cycle near the scenic Ullibarri-Gamboa reservoir. Many routes also connect charming medieval villages, ancient churches, and hermitages, offering a rich cultural experience.

The best time to cycle in Montaña Alavesa is typically during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these seasons, the weather is generally mild, and the landscapes are particularly beautiful, with blooming flowers in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer can also be pleasant, but be prepared for warmer temperatures, especially in July and August.

For cyclists seeking more challenging terrain and rewarding views, routes like the Alto de Iturrieta (990 m) – Old Zúñiga Station loop from Santa Cruz de Campezo / Santikurutze Kanpezu provide substantial elevation gain and panoramic vistas. This route features over 1200 meters of ascent, leading to higher elevations and offering expansive views of the Montaña Alavesa landscape.

Absolutely. Montaña Alavesa is known for integrating sections of historical routes into its cycling network. The Basque-Navarre Greenway (Vía Verde del FFCC Vasco-Navarro) is a prime example, offering picturesque and often flatter touring options on former railway lines. Routes like the Vasco-Navarro Greenway: Campezo Loop are specifically designed to utilize these historic paths.

The duration of these routes varies significantly based on their length and difficulty. For instance, a moderate route like the Arquijas Tunnel – Arquijas Viaduct loop, covering about 32 km, can take around 2.5 to 3 hours. Longer, more difficult routes, such as the Korres Village – Izki Gorge Viewpoint loop (48 km with over 1000m elevation), might require 5 hours or more, depending on your pace and stops.

The no-traffic touring routes in Montaña Alavesa are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.76 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the dedicated paths, the stunning natural beauty of Izki Natural Park, and the opportunity to discover charming medieval villages and historical sites away from vehicle noise. The well-maintained greenways and varied terrain are also frequently highlighted as positive aspects.

Yes, several routes offer excellent opportunities to explore the Izki Natural Park. For example, the Korres Village – Izki Gorge Viewpoint loop from San Román de Campezo / Durruma Kanpezu takes you through this protected area, allowing you to experience its diverse flora, wildlife, and unique limestone landscapes.