The best traffic-free bike rides around Mas De Las Matas

The region around Mas de las Matas, nestled between the Ebro valley and the Iberian mountain range, offers a diverse mix of landscapes. You'll find extensive networks of forest roads and double tracks, perfect for gravel biking. Expect varied topography with river valleys, rolling hills, and some mountainous ascents and descents, especially as you approach the limestone mountains like the Sierra de los Caballos. The routes often utilize unpaved surfaces, providing a true off-road experience away from traffic.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the challenging Calanda loop from Calanda offers a 22.4 km ride with significant elevation changes, providing a rewarding circular experience through varied terrain.

The 'empty mountains' character of Teruel suggests that spring and autumn are generally the most pleasant seasons for gravel biking. During these times, temperatures are moderate, and the natural scenery, with its pine forests, almond and olive groves, and wild flower meadows, is particularly beautiful. Summers can be hot, and winters might bring colder conditions, so checking the seasonal weather is always recommended.

The gravel bike trails around Mas de las Matas cater to various fitness levels, though many routes involve significant elevation gains. For instance, the Mas de las Matas – Los Arcos Aqueduct loop from Calanda is a challenging 57.6 km route with nearly 1000 meters of ascent, requiring good fitness. There are also moderate options like the Castellote Village and Castle – Castellote loop from Castellote, which is a 15.5 km ride with over 400 meters of climbing.

Absolutely! The region is rich in both natural beauty and historical sites. You can explore places like the unique Castellote Village and Castle, which offers cultural interest and scenic views. The broader area also features riverine landscapes shaped by the Guadalope and Bergantes rivers, and the famous 'El Bosque Pétreo' (Petrified Forest) is a unique natural attraction worth visiting. The town of Mas de las Matas itself has historical points like the 18th-century Baroque church of San Juan Bautista.

While many routes in the region involve significant elevation, the extensive network of forest roads and double tracks means that some sections can be suitable for families looking for quieter, unpaved paths. It's best to review the route profiles and elevation gains carefully on komoot to choose trails that match your family's fitness and experience level. Look for routes described as 'technically easy gravel roads' for a smoother experience.

Gravel bikers frequently praise the sense of remoteness and immersion in nature that the 'empty mountains' of Teruel provide. The extensive network of unpaved roads offers a true escape from traffic, allowing for peaceful rides through diverse landscapes of river valleys, rolling hills, and picturesque agricultural scenery. The opportunity to discover historical villages and unique natural features along the way is also highly valued.

Mas de las Matas and nearby towns like Calanda offer local amenities including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. These towns can serve as excellent starting points or mid-ride stops, allowing you to refuel and relax after exploring the gravel trails. It's advisable to check opening hours, especially in smaller villages.

Each route on komoot provides detailed information, including the exact starting point. For example, the Mas de las Matas – Los Arcos Aqueduct loop starts from Calanda, and the Castellote Village and Castle loop begins in Castellote. You can use the komoot app to navigate directly to these starting locations and follow the route.

Given the mix of forest roads, double tracks, and varied unpaved surfaces, tires in the 40-42mm range are generally recommended for optimal comfort and grip. This width provides a good balance between rolling efficiency on smoother gravel and stability on looser or rougher sections, ensuring a pleasant and secure ride across the diverse terrain of Mas de las Matas.