The best traffic-free bike rides around Ezcaray

There are currently 4 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Ezcaray featured in this guide. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from moderate to difficult, ensuring a suitable option for different skill levels.

The spring and autumn months are generally ideal for road cycling in Ezcaray. Spring offers lush greenery and pleasant temperatures, while autumn brings stunning colors to the beech forests of the Sierra de la Demanda. Summers can be warm, especially in the valley, but higher elevation routes provide cooler conditions. Winters can see snow, particularly on mountain passes like Valdezcaray, making some routes inaccessible or requiring specialized gear.

The no-traffic road cycling routes around Ezcaray range from moderate to difficult. You'll find 3 moderate routes and 1 difficult route, offering a good progression for cyclists looking to challenge themselves on the region's varied terrain.

Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the region offers routes with significant elevation gain. A notable difficult route is the Puerto de Montenegro – Montenegro de Cameros loop from Venta de Goyo, covering over 51 km with more than 1200 meters of ascent. The climb to Valdezcaray Ski Resort, while not a specific route in this guide, is also a well-known challenging ascent in the area, often with low traffic.

While this guide focuses on road cycling, the Ezcaray – Oja Greenway loop from Ezcaray offers a moderate option that incorporates sections of the Río Oja Greenway. The greenway itself is a converted railway line, providing a generally flatter and more accessible surface, though this specific loop includes some road sections. For purely easy, traffic-free options, consider exploring the greenway directly, which is suitable for a wider range of cyclists.

The routes offer diverse scenic viewpoints, from the dramatic Sierra de la Demanda mountains to the picturesque Oja River valley and expansive vineyards. You can experience views of the Oja River Viewpoint and Waterfall, and pass through beautiful beech forests, especially vibrant in autumn. Mountain passes like Cruz de la Demanda Pass also provide panoramic vistas.

Yes, several routes pass near or offer access to natural attractions. The Oja River Viewpoint and Waterfall – Bonicaparra Shelter loop from Azárrulla, for instance, includes the Oja River Viewpoint and Waterfall. Other highlights in the broader Ezcaray area include the Altuzarra Waterfalls and the impressive Arboleda del Sur – Horse Chestnut Trees of Ezcaray.

Yes, all the no-traffic road cycling routes featured in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Oja River Viewpoint and Waterfall – Bonicaparra Shelter loop from Azárrulla and the Beech Forest of GR 190 – Bonicaparra Shelter loop from Ezcaray.

The komoot community highly rates the cycling experience around Ezcaray, with an average score of 4.375 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty of the Sierra de la Demanda, the quiet roads that allow for immersive cycling, and the varied terrain that caters to different fitness levels. The combination of challenging climbs and scenic descents through forests and vineyards is frequently highlighted.

While the focus is on no-traffic roads, many routes pass through or near small villages where you might find local cafes or restaurants. Ezcaray itself offers numerous options for refreshments and accommodation. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer or more remote sections, as services might be sparse between towns.

Ezcaray is well-connected by bus services from larger towns in La Rioja, such as Logroño. However, public transport options directly to the specific starting points of all routes, especially those in smaller hamlets like Azárrulla or Venta de Goyo, might be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance if you plan to rely on public transport, and consider starting directly from Ezcaray for easier access.

Ezcaray, being a popular tourist destination, offers various parking options within the town. For routes starting directly from Ezcaray, you can typically find public parking areas. For routes that begin in smaller villages or hamlets, parking might be more informal, often available near the village center or designated visitor spots. Always ensure you park responsibly and do not obstruct local access.