Route 25: Donostia Cycling Loop

The route is approximately 23.2 kilometers long with an elevation gain of about 337 meters. For touring cyclists, it typically takes around 1 hour and 33 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

The Monte Igeldo circular route is generally considered a moderate bike ride. While there is an initial steep climb with hairpin bends up Monte Igeldo, the gradients become much gentler afterward. If you have good basic fitness, you should find it manageable, but beginners might find the initial ascent challenging.

The main cycling route is predominantly on paved surfaces, making it suitable for touring bikes. The initial climb up Monte Igeldo involves a series of hairpin bends, but after that, the road conditions are generally very good with gentler gradients. You'll cycle through a mix of urban areas, coastal paths, and sections with forests and meadows.

You'll pass by several iconic spots including the Kursaal Bridge, San Sebastián City Hall, and the beautiful La Concha Bay. A major highlight is the Peine del Viento sculptures. As you ascend Monte Igeldo, you'll reach the Monte Igueldo Lighthouse and be treated to incredible panoramic views from the View of La Concha Bay from Monte Igueldo and the View of San Sebastián. The route also includes the Morlans Tunnel.

The route is enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer weekends can be busy, especially on the initial climb. Clear days are best for enjoying the extensive panoramic views of San Sebastián Bay and the coast, which can even stretch to Biarritz.

As the route starts and ends in San Sebastián, you can look for public parking garages within the city. Many cyclists choose to start near the La Concha Bay or the Peine del Viento area, where you might find street parking or nearby paid lots. Consider parking slightly outside the busiest city center to avoid congestion, especially on weekends.

San Sebastián has a good public transport network. You can reach the starting points near La Concha Bay or the Peine del Viento by local bus services. If you're coming from further afield, San Sebastián's train and bus stations are well-connected, and you can cycle from there to the route's beginning.

While dogs are generally welcome in outdoor spaces in San Sebastián, this is primarily a touring bicycle route on paved roads and shared paths. If you plan to bring a dog, ensure it is comfortable with cycling alongside or in a trailer, and always keep it on a leash, especially in busy areas and near traffic. Be mindful of other cyclists and pedestrians.

No, you do not need any special permits or pay entrance fees to cycle this route. It uses public roads and paths. However, if you choose to visit the historic amusement park at the summit of Monte Igeldo, there will be an entrance fee for the park itself or the funicular ride.

Yes, being a circular route starting and ending in San Sebastián, you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars in the city center and along the La Concha Bay. There are also establishments near the summit of Monte Igeldo, offering refreshments with stunning views.

Yes, parts of this route coincide with other well-known paths. Notably, sections of the route, particularly on Monte Igeldo, align with the Northern Pilgrim's Way to Santiago de Compostela (Northern Route (Basque Country)). You'll also find it intersects with local cycling paths like Bidegorri and Ruta con prioridad peatonal, and passes through the Morlans Tunnel.

The first few kilometers of the climb up Monte Igeldo from San Sebastián involve a series of hairpin bends and can be quite busy, especially on summer weekends. It's advisable to start earlier in the day to avoid peak traffic. Take your time on the ascent, as the gradients are steepest here, and save some energy for the rest of the scenic ride.