The best gravel rides around Iza

There are nearly 90 gravel bike routes available around Iza, offering a wide range of experiences. The komoot community has explored these trails over 400 times, highlighting the region's popularity for gravel biking.

Gravel biking around Iza typically ranges from moderate to difficult, with many routes featuring significant elevation gains, sometimes reaching nearly 11,000 feet. While there are 4 easy routes, the majority of the 88 available tours are either moderate (29 routes) or difficult (55 routes), requiring good to very good fitness levels.

You can expect a diverse mix of terrain, from 'chunky gravel' paths to smoother roads, traversing high-altitude plains and unique páramo ecosystems. The routes often include challenging climbs and scenic descents, with lush vegetation, willows, alders, and chicalas creating a vibrant natural environment.

Yes, many routes offer stunning views. You can ride near Pamplona Cathedral and the Citadel or explore the Pamplona Citadel. The region also boasts renowned cycling spots like Crucero Surtipan and Curies Summit, offering panoramic vistas. Additionally, the routes often provide breathtaking views of Lago de Tota, Colombia's largest inland lake, and the serene Sugamuxi Valley.

Yes, several gravel biking routes in the Boyacá region pass through remote villages with small stores where you can access water and snacks. There's even a popular and welcoming cafe owned by the mother of renowned cyclist Nairo Quintana, which is a favorite stop for cyclists near Villa de Leyva.

Given the mixed surfaces and challenging terrain, it's recommended to use tires around 2 inches or larger, with 38c or 40mm tires providing good comfort and traction. A 1:1 gear ratio is also suggested to effectively tackle the steep climbs you'll encounter.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops. For example, you can try the Plazaola Greenway – Gulina Viaduct loop from Urritza, a 37-mile trail, or the Orgi Forest – Camping Izarpe loop from Juslapeña / Txulapain, which is a challenging 41.7-mile ride through forest and open terrain.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse terrain, the challenging climbs, and the stunning natural beauty, including views of Lago de Tota and the lush 'Green Nest of Boyacá'.

Absolutely. Iza is known for its challenging routes, with 55 of the nearly 90 trails rated as difficult. Many routes feature substantial elevation gains and cover long distances, such as the Plazaola Greenway – Santa Cruz Tunnel loop from Urritza, an 88.2 km trail with over 1000 meters of ascent, taking over 7 hours to complete.

Beyond the trails, Iza itself offers charming colonial architecture. The broader Boyacá region is rich in heritage towns like Villa de Leyva. For post-ride relaxation, natural hot spring wells are located on the outskirts of Iza, providing a rejuvenating experience.

While specific seasonal recommendations are not provided, the high-altitude nature of Iza and the Boyacá region means weather can be variable. It's always advisable to check local weather forecasts before heading out, especially when planning rides with significant elevation changes.

Yes, while many routes are challenging, there are 4 easy and 29 moderate gravel routes available around Iza. These offer a less strenuous introduction to the region's beautiful landscapes, allowing riders to enjoy the scenery without extreme demands on fitness.