4.5
(495)
23,452
riders
162
rides
Road cycling around Embalse de Gorostitza offers a diverse landscape for cyclists. The region, situated near Gran Bilbao, is characterized by its proximity to the estuary, providing scenic views, and significant elevation changes, indicating hilly to mountainous terrain. Cyclists can expect routes that traverse varied topography, from lower elevations near the water to higher passes and "altos" further inland. The area features a network of roads suitable for road bikes, with options ranging from moderate climbs to challenging ascents.
Last updated: October 25, 2026
4.9
(15)
635
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.5
(10)
411
riders
82.8km
03:50
970m
970m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

3.3
(6)
317
riders
34.1km
01:27
260m
260m
Easy road ride. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.8
(5)
257
riders
110km
05:18
1,480m
1,480m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(6)
192
riders
47.7km
02:25
770m
770m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Already pretty much at the end/beginning of the railway line, here it is even asphalted, before/later not anymore, but always easy to ride.
1
0
The bridge was built in the 11th century and served as an important crossing point on the old road to Castile. It crosses the Cadagua River and is one of the city's landmarks. The bridge consists of three arches and has a Gothic tower added in the 15th century. This tower was formerly used to collect tolls.
1
0
For a long time, and still today, a fundamental element of connection in the neighborhood.
0
0
Very interesting stretch of cycle path along the Ria. There is a lot to see along the route to and from Bilbao.
0
0
There is a fantastic network of cycle paths in and around Bilbao. The cycle superhighways are particularly easy to ride on. It's enough to make you jealous.
2
0
The best-known image of Balmaseda, and it is right. A pleasure to go through.
3
0
There are over 150 road cycling routes available around Embalse de Gorostitza, offering a wide range of options for cyclists of varying skill levels.
The routes in Embalse de Gorostitza primarily cater to moderate and difficult ability levels. You'll find 62 moderate routes and 67 difficult routes, with a smaller selection of 27 easy routes.
Yes, the region is known for its significant elevation changes and challenging ascents. Routes like Puerto de Orduña – Alto de Peña Angulo loop from Irauregi Alonsotegi feature over 1,400 meters of elevation gain, providing a substantial workout.
Absolutely. For those seeking longer rides, routes such as Alto de Peña Angulo – Alto de Ro loop from Irauregi Alonsotegi stretch over 129 kilometers, offering extensive distances and significant climbs.
Route durations vary significantly based on distance and elevation. Moderate routes like View of the Estuary of Bilbao – Views of the Bilbao estuary loop from Gurutzeta can take around 2 hours, while more challenging, longer routes may require 4 hours or more, such as the Alto de Ro – Old Bridge of Balmaseda loop from Irauregi Alonsotegi which typically takes about 3 hours 50 minutes.
While specific regional climate data isn't provided, generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for road cycling in this type of hilly terrain, avoiding the potential heat of summer and colder, wetter conditions of winter. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience here, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 400 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscape, estuary views, and the challenging climbs that characterize the region.
Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Oxirando Tower – Carretera A-3634 loop from Zorrotza and the View of the Estuary of Bilbao – Views of the Bilbao estuary loop from Gurutzeta.
You can expect diverse scenery ranging from expansive views of the Bilbao estuary to varied hilly terrain further inland. Routes often traverse areas with significant elevation changes, offering panoramic vistas from higher points and glimpses of historical landmarks.
Many popular routes, such as the Alto de Ro – Old Bridge of Balmaseda loop and the Puerto de Orduña – Alto de Peña Angulo loop, frequently start from Irauregi Alonsotegi. Other routes may begin from Gurutzeta or Zorrotza, providing various access points to the network.
While the region is known for its moderate to difficult terrain, there are 27 routes classified as easy. These routes typically feature less elevation gain and shorter distances, making them more accessible for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride.


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