The best traffic-free bike rides around Montaña Alavesa

This guide features 4 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails in Montaña Alavesa, offering diverse experiences for gravel cyclists.

The no-traffic gravel trails in Montaña Alavesa traverse varied terrain, from the tranquil atmosphere of tiny valleys and gentle mountains to open landscapes. You'll encounter paths through extensive beech woods, unique karst formations, and even old railway lines, providing a mix of surfaces suitable for gravel biking.

The routes listed in this guide are generally rated as difficult due to their length and elevation gain. For example, the Granada Tunnel – Arquijas Viaduct loop is over 31 km, and the Opakua Pass – View of the Sierra de Lokiz loop extends to nearly 95 km with significant climbing. While the region offers easier options, these specific no-traffic routes are better suited for experienced gravel bikers.

Montaña Alavesa is rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. While riding, you might pass through charming medieval towns like Antoñana, known for its ancient walls, or Peñacerrada-Urizaharra. Natural features include extensive beech woods and views of limestone mountains. The Viana Historic Centre – View of the Ebro Valley loop offers panoramic vistas of the Ebro River valley.

Yes, all the no-traffic gravel bike routes in this guide are designed as circular loops. This includes the Granada Tunnel – Arquijas Viaduct loop and the Atauri Tunnel – Vasco-Navarro Railway Bridge loop, both starting from Santa Cruz de Campezo / Santikurutze Kanpezu, allowing you to finish where you started.

Montaña Alavesa is enjoyable for gravel biking across multiple seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes, with blooming flora or colorful foliage. Summer can be warm, but the region's diverse terrain, including shaded woods, can provide relief. Winter can be cold, but clear days still offer beautiful riding conditions.

While the specific routes in this guide are rated as difficult, the broader Montaña Alavesa region, particularly sections of the Basque Navarre greenway and old railway lines, offers accessible and flat gravel paths that are ideal for families. These areas provide a safe, car-free environment for riders of all ages.

Many of the routes in Montaña Alavesa, such as those starting from Santa Cruz de Campezo / Santikurutze Kanpezu for the Granada Tunnel – Arquijas Viaduct loop or the Atauri Tunnel – Vasco-Navarro Railway Bridge loop, typically have designated parking areas in or near the starting towns. It's advisable to check local parking availability in towns like Antoñana or Santa Cruz de Campezo before your ride.

The routes often pass through or near charming towns and villages in Montaña Alavesa, such as Antoñana, Lagrán, or Santa Cruz de Campezo. These locations typically offer cafes, restaurants, or small shops where you can refuel and enjoy local cuisine. Planning your stops in advance can enhance your riding experience.

Montaña Alavesa is an excellent destination for no-traffic gravel biking due to its tranquil atmosphere, diverse landscapes, and well-developed network of routes, including greenways and old railway lines. The region's commitment to preserving its natural and cultural heritage means you can enjoy peaceful rides away from vehicles, surrounded by scenic beauty and historic towns.