The best cycling routes around Urzainqui
4.4
(21)
474
riders
24
rides
Touring cycling around Urzainqui offers routes through the Roncal Valley, characterized by wooded hillsides and traditional architecture within the Spanish Pyrenees. The region features significant elevation changes, including challenging mountain passes such as Collado de Argibiela and Laza Pass. The Esca River flows through the area, adding to the varied landscape. This environment provides a diverse setting for touring cyclists seeking routes with notable climbs and descents.
Best touring cycling routes around Urzainqui
- The most popular touring cycling route is…
Last updated: October 29, 2026
5.0
(3)
70
riders
54.2km
04:00
1,200m
1,200m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(1)
30
riders
38.9km
03:01
840m
830m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
82
riders
75.9km
05:20
1,490m
1,490m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.5
(2)
21
riders
100km
06:58
1,850m
1,850m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
3.0
(1)
10
riders
46.7km
03:10
780m
780m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Tips from the Community
One of the most beautiful `villages in Navarra with its stone houses, cobbled streets, and medieval bridges. It is a village that due to its location we can consider as the gateway to explore the Selva de Irati.
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Roncal, in Basque Erronkari, is a beautiful Navarrese village of traditional stone houses in the spectacular Roncal Valley. Its location is ideal as a starting point or an ideal stopover for any outdoor route. Especially if you like cheese.
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Without a doubt, the Col de la Piedra de San Martín or Pierre Saint-Martin is one of the Top 10 in all the Pyrenees. Without exceeding 2000 meters in altitude, it is a very long pass, with a lot of accumulated elevation gain (due to the countless French sides, the elevation gain is 1,450 meters), with very tough ramps and several kilometers above 10%, with wonderful landscapes and panoramic views and with little traffic, except for the sides that the main road crosses (D132 in France, the NA 137 in Spain). It is a pass with many sides; in Europe there are few other passes that have as many sides as this one (Col de Turini and Passo delle Erbe would be comparable in number of sides approximately). I have climbed it only from 2 sides: (i) my first time was from Lourdios Ichère, crossing the Col de Labays and the Col de Soudet. Simply spectacular; (ii) subsequently, I have climbed it on several occasions from the Spanish side, which is unique, and which starting from Belagua and crossing the Belagua cross-country ski station, reaches the pass. It is also very beautiful, with a different landscape and views than the northeast side. If I had to choose one of the 2, I liked the northwest side more because it is more remote, harder and in my opinion more authentic. It is also a culturally special pass because at its summit the Tribute of the 3 Cows takes place annually every July 13th, 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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It is a beautiful mountain pass that links the Roncal Valley (Navarra) with the Ansó Valley (Aragon). It is a mountain pass that I am very fond of for several reasons: (i) the road is very winding, with many curves and hairpin bends, especially on the Navarre side (ii) it is a mountain pass with no steep slopes on either side (iii) there is hardly any car or motorcycle traffic. It is very peaceful and you can fully concentrate on the climb, on your pace, on your sensations. The asphalt on the Aragonese side is in very poor condition, although that also makes it attractive because you can imagine what the roads were like that professionals used in the 90s and before. It can be linked to other ports and is a beautiful gateway to 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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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of touring cycling routes can I expect around Urzainqui?
Urzainqui, nestled in the Roncal Valley of the Spanish Pyrenees, offers a network of 21 touring cycling routes. These routes are characterized by significant elevation changes, challenging mountain passes like Collado de Argibiela and Laza Pass, wooded hillsides, and river valleys. They are generally suited for experienced cyclists seeking demanding ascents and descents.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in Urzainqui?
The touring cycling routes around Urzainqui are predominantly rated as difficult, featuring considerable climbs and descents through the Pyrenean landscape. While the region is beautiful, routes like the Ansó and Roncal Valleys Loop are designed for experienced cyclists. For families with younger children or those seeking easier rides, the terrain might be too challenging. It's advisable to check individual route profiles for specific difficulty levels.
What are some of the most scenic mountain passes for touring cyclists in the area?
The region around Urzainqui is renowned for its challenging and scenic mountain passes. The Collado de Argibiela and Laza Pass are particularly highlighted for their long climbs and magnificent views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. The ascent to Collado de Argibiela, for instance, includes sections with an 8% gradient, offering a rewarding experience for touring cyclists. You can explore a route featuring the Laza Pass with the Laza Pass (1,129 m) – Alto Laza loop from Iturrotza.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes starting near Urzainqui?
Yes, there are several circular touring cycling routes available. For example, the Collado de Argibiela – San Pedro Church (Ansó) loop from Borda de Salas is a 63.1 km trail that takes you through the Pyrenean foothills and over Collado de Argibiela. Another option is the Ansó and Roncal Valleys Loop, which navigates through two distinct Pyrenean valleys.
What natural attractions or landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes?
The touring cycling routes around Urzainqui offer access to various natural attractions. You can encounter dramatic mountain peaks like Chinebral de Gamueta and Pico Txamantxoia, which provide spectacular panoramic views. The Belabarzeko Urjausia - natural swimming pool, a beautiful waterfall on the Belabarze River, is also a notable spot for a refreshing stop. Additionally, you might pass through charming settlements like Ansó.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Urzainqui?
The touring cycling routes around Urzainqui are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from more than 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the challenging nature of the routes, the magnificent views from mountain passes, and the quiet roads that wind through the traditional Roncal Valley and its wooded hillsides.
Are there any very long touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
For experienced riders looking for a significant challenge, the Ansó – Cueva del Ibón loop from Urzainqui / Urzainki is a substantial option. This route spans over 120 kilometers (75 miles) with an elevation gain of approximately 2,400 meters, typically taking around 8 hours and 40 minutes to complete. It offers an extensive exploration of the Pyrenean landscape.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Urzainqui?
The Roncal Valley, where Urzainqui is located, experiences distinct seasons. While specific recommendations depend on personal preference, the warmer months, typically late spring to early autumn, offer more favorable weather conditions for tackling the mountain passes and enjoying the natural swimming spots like the Belabarze waterfall. However, always check local weather forecasts before heading out, especially for mountain routes.
Are there any places to explore or villages to visit along the cycling routes?
Yes, the region is rich in traditional Pyrenean villages. The 'Route of the Seven Villages of Roncal,' which includes Urzainqui, offers a cultural and scenic cycling opportunity. Many routes pass through or near charming settlements like Ansó, allowing cyclists to experience the local architecture and atmosphere. The View of the Countryside – Burgui loop from Garde is another route that takes you through picturesque areas.
What kind of terrain should I expect on the touring cycling routes?
The terrain around Urzainqui is varied and challenging. Cyclists will encounter a mix of wooded hillsides, river valleys, and significant mountain passes. Roads are generally quiet, especially on the ascents to passes like Collado de Argibiela and Laza Pass. Expect demanding climbs and descents, characteristic of the Spanish Pyrenees, with a landscape rich in vegetation.
Are there any viewpoints offering panoramic vistas?
Absolutely. The region is known for its spectacular views. Beyond the mountain passes, specific viewpoints like Llano de Tacheras offer expansive vistas of the surrounding valleys and peaks. Climbing to summits like Pico Txamantxoia also rewards cyclists with panoramic views that separate the Belagua and Ansó valleys.
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