The best traffic-free bike rides around Sierra de la Demanda

There are over 20 no-traffic gravel bike trails in Sierra de la Demanda, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. These routes are specifically curated to provide serene, car-free exploration of the region's diverse landscapes.

The no-traffic gravel trails in Sierra de la Demanda feature a mix of surfaces, predominantly gravel, often following old railway lines like the Vía Verde de la Sierra de la Demanda. You'll encounter diverse landscapes from dense pine, beech, and oak forests to more rugged, rocky terrain at higher elevations. While many sections offer gentle gradients, some detours around closed tunnels can present challenging climbs with gradients up to 26%.

The best time for gravel biking in Sierra de la Demanda is generally spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer can be pleasant, especially at higher altitudes, but lower areas might experience warmer temperatures. Winter can bring snow to higher elevations, making some routes inaccessible, though lower greenways might still be rideable.

While many routes in the region are rated as difficult, the Vía Verde de la Sierra de la Demanda and the Oja Greenway offer sections with gentler gradients, typical of former railway lines, making them more accessible for beginners or those seeking an easier ride. These greenways provide a great introduction to the region's car-free cycling.

Riding these trails allows you to immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty. You'll pass through dense forests of pine, beech, and oak, discover high mountain lagoons, and enjoy crystalline streams. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including various bird species, roe deer, and red deer. Panoramic views from viewpoints like La Rasilla are also a highlight.

Yes, the Sierra de la Demanda is rich in history. You can explore ancient monasteries, Roman ruins, and traditional stone villages. Unique historical sites include the Necrópolis de Cuyacabras with its rock-carved tombs. The old railway lines themselves, now converted into greenways, are a testament to the region's past. For specific mountain passes, you might encounter Collado de Sagastia or the Valdezcaray Mountain Pass Ascent.

Yes, there are several circular routes designed for gravel biking. For example, the challenging Alto de Pradilla – Ezcaray Greenway loop from Ezcaray offers a substantial ride, combining mountain ascents with greenway sections. Another option is the Ascent to Santa Bárbara – Cruz de la Demanda Pass loop from Ezcaray.

Experienced gravel riders seeking a challenge will find plenty. Routes like Mymerak gravel routes to the roof of La Rioja, with significant elevation gain, or the Ascent to Santa Bárbara – Alto de Pradilla loop from Ezcaray, provide demanding climbs and technical sections, often reaching altitudes over 2,000 meters.

Absolutely. The mountainous terrain of Sierra de la Demanda offers numerous opportunities for breathtaking panoramic views. Higher altitude trails, especially those climbing towards peaks like Peaks of the Demanda or San Lorenzo, will reward you with expansive vistas of the surrounding rugged landscapes and dense forests.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Sierra de la Demanda, with an average score of 4.375 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility and natural beauty of the region, highlighting the joy of riding on traffic-free paths through diverse forests and mountains, and the sense of escape offered by its 'empty Spain' characteristic.

For a shorter but still demanding ride, consider the Ascent to Santa Bárbara – PuenteCanto loop from Ezcaray. This route, while under 20 km, still packs in nearly 600 meters of elevation gain, offering a good workout in a more condensed timeframe.