The best traffic-free bike rides in Cuenca

There are over 50 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails in Cuenca, offering a wide range of experiences. You'll find everything from moderate riverside paths to challenging routes with significant elevation gain through the Andean landscapes.

Yes, Cuenca offers several easy no-traffic gravel bike trails perfect for beginners. These often follow the city's river corridors, such as the Tomebamba and Yanuncay, providing scenic and relatively flat rides. One example is the Júcar Gorge – Júcar Riverside Walk loop from Cuenca, which is rated as moderate but offers a manageable 28.7 km ride through picturesque scenery.

For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, Cuenca's surrounding Andean mountains and high-altitude páramo offer demanding routes. Trails within or near El Cajas National Park provide rugged terrain and significant elevation changes. Consider routes like the Puente de Peñalén – Trail along the Tajo River loop, which covers over 73 km with more than 1000 meters of ascent, or the Beteta – Refugio de la Alconera loop, a difficult 105 km ride with nearly 1850 meters of climbing.

Absolutely. Many of the no-traffic gravel bike trails in Cuenca are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. This is ideal for day trips and exploring specific areas. The Chorros de Barchel Waterfalls – Views of the Benagéber Reservoir loop is a challenging 65 km circular route that offers stunning natural beauty.

Cuenca's no-traffic gravel trails often lead through breathtaking natural landscapes. You can explore the dramatic Júcar Gorge, discover unique rock formations like the Enchanted City, or visit the serene Uña Lagoon. Many routes also offer panoramic viewpoints such as Estrecho del Horcajo Viewpoint and Ventano del Diablo, providing stunning vistas of the region.

Yes, the Cuenca region is home to impressive waterfalls. While not directly on every gravel route, some trails can lead you close to areas like the Chorros de Barchel Waterfalls, which are part of the Chorros de Barchel Waterfalls – Views of the Benagéber Reservoir loop. Further afield, the village of Girón, about 45 minutes from Cuenca, boasts the impressive El Chorro de Girón, which can be a rewarding full-day hike or a destination for a longer gravel adventure.

The best time for gravel biking in Cuenca generally depends on the specific elevation of your chosen route. The city itself enjoys a temperate climate year-round due to its altitude. However, for higher altitude routes, especially those near El Cajas National Park, it's advisable to avoid the wettest months (typically October to May) and be prepared for quickly changing weather conditions, including cold temperatures and fog, even in the dry season. Always check local forecasts before heading out.

For families, the extensive network of bicycle lanes and paths along Cuenca's four rivers (Tomebamba, Yanuncay, Tarqui, and Machángara), known as the "Ciclovía Cuenca Unida," offers excellent no-traffic options. These paths provide a mix of urban scenery and natural beauty, with varying grades suitable for different ages and skill levels. Look for shorter, less elevated routes for a pleasant family outing.

The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic gravel biking experience in Cuenca, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse terrain, the stunning Andean landscapes, and the tranquility of riding away from vehicle traffic. The mix of unpaved tracks, natural paths, and the challenge of significant elevation changes are frequently highlighted as key attractions.

Beyond the well-known routes, exploring the smaller paths and tracks around the rural neighborhoods connected by the Turi Viewpoint can reveal some hidden gems. These often lead through less-traveled areas, offering unique insights into the local landscape and culture. Additionally, the region's extensive network means that many less-publicized tracks exist, providing opportunities for discovery away from the main routes.

Yes, several no-traffic gravel routes in the vicinity of Cuenca offer spectacular panoramic views. The Puntal de la Tola Viewpoint is a notable spot, and routes leading to or around the Turi Viewpoint (Mirador de Turi) provide sweeping vistas of the city and its surrounding mountain ridges. These elevated spots are perfect for photography and enjoying the vastness of the Andean landscape.