The best traffic-free bike rides around Embalse de Itóiz / Itoizko Urtegia

This guide features 3 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around the Embalse de Itóiz / Itoizko Urtegia, offering a range of distances and challenges for a peaceful ride through the region's diverse landscapes.

The trails around Embalse de Itóiz / Itoizko Urtegia offer a varied terrain, typical of the pre-Pyrenean transition zone. You'll encounter a mix of paths through lush oak forests, open sections with continuous water views of the reservoir, and moderate hills. This blend provides both shaded routes and dynamic visual experiences, perfect for gravel biking.

While all routes in this guide are traffic-free, the Medieval Bridge of Aoiz – El Ferial Square loop from Aoiz / Agoitz is a moderate 24.3 km route with manageable elevation, making it a good option for families with some cycling experience. It offers a chance to explore the historic town of Aoiz and its surroundings.

Many trails in the Embalse de Itóiz / Itoizko Urtegia region are suitable for dogs, especially those that traverse natural areas and forests. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially near wildlife or in agricultural areas, and to check local regulations for specific trail sections. Ensure your dog is fit for the distance and terrain.

The region is rich in history and natural beauty. You can encounter sections of the ancient Roman road of Artzibar/Arce, adding a cultural dimension to your ride. The Medieval Bridge of Aoiz – El Ferial Square loop from Aoiz / Agoitz specifically passes by the Medieval Bridge of Aoiz. Additionally, you might discover abandoned villages along lonely paths, offering unique exploration opportunities.

Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Urrobi Valley – Hórreo de Lusarreta loop from Oroz-Betelu / Orotz-Betelu offers a challenging 39 km circular ride through varied landscapes.

The Embalse de Itóiz / Itoizko Urtegia region is enjoyable for gravel biking for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with lush greenery in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Summer can be warm but is still suitable, especially for rides in shaded forest sections. Winter rides are possible but require checking weather conditions for potential cold or wet spells.

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages that serve as starting points for these routes, such as Aoiz / Agoitz and Oroz-Betelu / Orotz-Betelu. Look for designated parking areas within these communities, which often provide convenient access to the trailheads.

The trails in this guide range from moderate to difficult. For instance, the Medieval Bridge of Aoiz – El Ferial Square loop from Aoiz / Agoitz is rated moderate, while the Ascent to Alzorriz – Alzorriz Fountain loop from Aoiz / Agoitz is a more challenging 73 km route with significant elevation gain, suitable for experienced riders.

Yes, the towns and villages surrounding Embalse de Itóiz / Itoizko Urtegia, such as Aoiz / Agoitz and Oroz-Betelu / Orotz-Betelu, offer options for cafes and restaurants where you can refuel before or after your ride. These local establishments provide a chance to experience regional cuisine and hospitality.

Gravel biking here is unique due to the region's position in the pre-Pyrenean transition zone, offering a wide array of terrains from dense forests to paths along steep cliffs with elevated views. The expansive Embalse de Itóiz reservoir provides stunning water vistas, while historical elements like ancient Roman roads and abandoned villages add a rich cultural layer to the natural beauty, making for truly solitary routes full of contrasts.