The best cycling routes around Isaba/Izaba
4.5
(23)
1,068
riders
12
rides
Touring cycling routes around Isaba/Izaba traverse the Pyrenean valley of Roncal in Navarre, Spain, offering diverse and challenging terrain. The region is characterized by significant elevation changes, dense woodlands, and open pastures, with the Esca River flowing through its valleys. Cyclists encounter a mix of smooth paved roads and unpaved tracks, winding through a landscape shaped by glacial activity and karst formations.
Best touring cycling routes around Isaba/Izaba
- The most popular touring cycling route is Ansó and Roncal Valleys Loop, a 33.7 miles (54.2 km) trail that takes 4 hours 0 minutes to complete. This difficult route explores the natural environments of the Roncal Valley.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Pierre Saint-Martin Pass – Pierre Saint-Martin Pass loop from Asolaze kanpina, a difficult 26.0 miles (41.9 km) path. This route features challenging mountain passes typical of the Pyrenees.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Pierre Saint-Martin Pass – Soudet Pass loop from Bitxitoza, a 56.6 miles (91.1 km) trail leading through Pyrenean landscapes with significant elevation gain, often completed in about 7 hours 12 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Isaba/Izaba is defined by challenging mountain passes, dense woodlands, and unique karst landscapes. The network offers options for experienced cyclists seeking demanding routes with considerable elevation gains.
- The routes in Isaba/Izaba are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 500 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Isaba/Izaba's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
5.0
(2)
69
riders
54.2km
04:00
1,200m
1,200m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
64
riders
91.1km
07:12
2,630m
2,630m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
44
riders
85.1km
05:27
1,090m
1,090m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
25
riders
75.9km
05:40
1,850m
1,850m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
33.9km
02:53
880m
880m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Without a doubt, the Col de la Piedra de Saint Martin or Pierre Saint-Martin is one of the Top 10 in the whole of the Pyrenees. Without exceeding 2000 metres of altitude, it is a very long pass, with a lot of accumulated gradient (due to the innumerable French slopes, the gradient is 1,450 metres), with very hard slopes and several kilometres above 10%, with wonderful landscapes and panoramic views and with little traffic, except for the slopes crossed by the main road (D132 in France, the NA 137 in Spain). It is a pass with many slopes; in Europe there are few other passes that have as many slopes as this one (col de Turini, Passo delle Erbe, would be comparable in number of slopes approximately). I have only climbed it by 2 slopes: (i) my first time was from Lourdios Ichère, crossing the col de Labays and the col de Soudet. Simply spectacular; (ii) I have subsequently climbed the Spanish side on several occasions, which is unique, and which starts from Belagua and crosses the Belagua cross-country ski resort to reach the mountain pass. It is also very beautiful, with a landscape and views different from the north-east side. If I had to choose one of the two, I liked the north-west side better because it is more remote, harder and in my opinion more authentic. It is also a culturally special mountain pass because the Tribute of the 3 cows takes place on its summit every 13th of July, which is considered the oldest treaty in force in Europe. So... you know... you cannot miss the opportunity to come here and enjoy this wonderful jewel of the Pyrenees!!!!
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Isaba, also known as Izaba in Basque, is a picturesque village located in the Roncal Valley in the Navarrese Pyrenees, northern Spain. This charming village is known for its rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, when it was a strategic outpost for the Kingdom of Navarre. Isaba offers breathtaking scenery with lush green meadows in spring, colorful autumn leaves and snow-capped mountains in winter.
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I would not recommend right now. They recently did a chip and seal so a LOT of loose gravel. I live in the area and even the road to Osse en Aspe.
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The Puerto de Laza is a small and beautiful hill that joins the valleys of Roncal (starting from Isaba) and Salazar (starting from Ochagavía) in the Navarrese Pyrenees. Both sides are very similar: a very easy start on a winding road, in perfect condition but without a hard shoulder, passing through small towns and going up the course of the respective rivers Anduña (Salazar valley) and Urbi (Roncal valley); a final stretch of 2 - 3 kms that is harder without being too much so, although there are some slopes above 10%. The Salazar valley side becomes harder when leaving behind the detour to the Larrau port. From here to the port there are 3 km with an average gradient of 7%. On the other hand, the Roncal valley side becomes harder when overcoming a bridge over the river that has been with us since we left Isaba behind. From here it is barely 2 km with an average gradient of 7%. From a landscape perspective, it is a port that I love because you can enjoy the exuberance of the vegetation of the Pyrenees, crossing narrow valleys and only with panoramic views when you reach the top, where there is a viewing point that is worth looking out at. A port that I always recommend for enjoying cycle tourism. I leave you the profile of both sides produced by the website www.cyclingcols.com --> http://www.cyclingcols.com/col/Laza
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This montana center is also a bar, restaurant, and possible to repair the bike. The VAE will be able to recharge the battery in the beautiful restaurant/bar room. Super nice welcome.
2
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A very irregular climb, with even a descending passage, which gives the opportunity to recover after a few slightly steeper passages. But not really any big difficulty on this pass.
0
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Nice rest area with barbecue areas and fountain
1
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Large beautifully designed fountain with fresh water. Right on the street.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Isaba/Izaba?
There are 13 touring cycling routes documented on komoot for the Isaba/Izaba region. These routes are generally challenging, featuring significant elevation gains through the Pyrenean landscape.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Isaba/Izaba?
The terrain around Isaba/Izaba is diverse, ranging from well-paved roads winding through dense woodlands to unpaved tracks and access roads. You'll encounter challenging mountain passes and experience a mix of natural environments, including forests, pastures, and unique karst landscapes in areas like the Larra Nature Reserve.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Isaba/Izaba area?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Isaba/Izaba are designed as loops. For example, the Ansó and Roncal Valleys Loop offers a comprehensive exploration of the region's natural beauty, while the Pierre Saint-Martin Pass – Pierre Saint-Martin Pass loop from Asolaze kanpina provides a challenging ride through the Pyrenees.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I can see along the touring cycling routes?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can cycle through the magnificent Roncal and Belagua Valleys, which feature forests and rock formations. Routes often pass by impressive mountain peaks like Pic d'Orhy, offering panoramic views. The Laza Pass (1,129 m) is another prominent feature you might encounter on routes like the Cueva del Ibón – Laza Pass (1,129 m) loop from Asolaze Jatetxea.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Isaba/Izaba?
Given the challenging mountain passes and significant elevation gains, the best time for touring cycling in Isaba/Izaba is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally more stable, and the higher passes are clear of snow, providing optimal conditions for exploring the Pyrenean landscape.
Are there any easy or family-friendly touring cycling routes in Isaba/Izaba?
The touring cycling routes around Isaba/Izaba are predominantly classified as difficult due to significant elevation changes and challenging mountain passes. Currently, there are no easy or moderate touring cycling routes listed, making the area more suitable for experienced cyclists seeking demanding rides.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Isaba/Izaba?
The touring cycling routes in Isaba/Izaba are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 10 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the challenging mountain passes, the diverse terrain, and the stunning Pyrenean landscapes that define the region.
Can I find places to eat or drink along the touring cycling routes?
While specific cafes or pubs directly on every route are not detailed, the charming traditional villages within the Roncal Valley, including Isaba itself, offer opportunities for refreshments. It's advisable to plan your stops in advance, especially on longer routes, as services may be spread out in this mountainous region.
What are the typical elevation gains on touring cycling routes in Isaba/Izaba?
Touring cycling routes in Isaba/Izaba are characterized by significant elevation gains, reflecting the mountainous Pyrenean terrain. For instance, the Pierre Saint-Martin Pass – Soudet Pass loop from Bitxitoza involves over 2,600 meters of ascent, while the Ansó and Roncal Valleys Loop features over 1,200 meters of climbing.
Are there any specific mountain passes popular with touring cyclists in this region?
Yes, the Isaba/Izaba area is renowned for its challenging mountain passes. Notable climbs include the Larrau Pass, Laza Pass, and the iconic Larra-Belagua, which has been featured in major cycling events. The Pierre Saint-Martin Pass is also a key feature on several routes, such as the Pierre Saint-Martin Pass – Pierre Saint-Martin Pass loop from Asolaze kanpina.
Is it possible to access touring cycling routes using public transport in Isaba/Izaba?
Information regarding direct public transport access to specific touring cycling route starting points is not readily available. It is recommended to check local transport options or consider driving to a suitable starting point in Isaba/Izaba, where parking facilities are generally available in the villages.
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