The best traffic-free bike rides around Lekunberri

There are 9 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Lekunberri featured in this guide. These routes offer a variety of distances and elevation gains, primarily utilizing the Plazaola Greenway and other quiet paths.

The no-traffic gravel routes in Lekunberri primarily follow the Plazaola Greenway, which is a reconditioned old railway line, offering a smooth surface through tunnels and bridges. Beyond the Greenway, you'll encounter diverse landscapes including verdant meadows, dense forests, and some more challenging Pyrenean-style terrain in the Sierra de Aralar foothills, suitable for gravel bikes.

While many routes in this guide are rated 'difficult' due to length and elevation, the Plazaola Greenway itself is generally very family-friendly, offering a smooth, traffic-free surface. For a moderate option that incorporates part of the Greenway, consider the Plazaola Greenway – Santa Cruz Tunnel loop from Leitza, which is 31 km long and offers a good balance for those with some cycling experience.

Spring and autumn are generally considered the best times to visit Lekunberri for outdoor activities like gravel biking. The weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are particularly vibrant with lush greenery or autumnal colors. Winter can bring colder temperatures and potential snow in higher elevations, while summer can be warm, though the shaded sections of the Greenway offer some respite.

Yes, all the routes listed in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, you could try the challenging Santa Cruz Tunnel – Plazaola Greenway loop from Imotz, which covers nearly 50 km, or the slightly shorter View of the Dos Hermanas Gorge – Larraun River Path loop from Lekunberri at just over 30 km.

The trails offer access to several natural wonders and viewpoints. You can visit the beautiful Ixkier Waterfall, explore the Sources of the Iribas River, or enjoy panoramic views from the Vultures' Viewpoint. The routes also pass through numerous tunnels, including the significant 2.7 km Uitzi tunnel on the Plazaola Greenway.

Absolutely. The View of the Dos Hermanas Gorge – Larraun River Path loop from Lekunberri offers stunning vistas of the Larraun River valley. Additionally, many sections of the Plazaola Greenway provide picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and forests, especially as you pass through the Sierra de Aralar foothills.

While all routes are categorized as 'mtb_easy' in terms of the type of bike suitable, most of the no-traffic gravel routes in this guide are rated 'difficult' due to their length and significant elevation gains. There is one 'moderate' route, the Plazaola Greenway – Santa Cruz Tunnel loop from Leitza, which is a good starting point for those looking for a less strenuous option.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility and safety of the traffic-free Plazaola Greenway, the stunning natural beauty of the Sierra de Aralar, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable gravel biking experience away from cars.

Lekunberri is well-connected and serves as a hub for the Plazaola Greenway. While specific public transport details for reaching trailheads are best checked locally, the town itself is accessible, and the former Plazaola station in Lekunberri now houses a tourist office where you can find information and even rent bikes, making it a convenient starting point for many routes.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a longer challenge, the Cantina del Plazaola – Plazaola Greenway loop from Leitza is an excellent option. This route spans over 61 km with significant elevation gain, offering a demanding yet rewarding experience through varied landscapes.