The best traffic-free bike rides around Colomera

There are over 20 no-traffic touring cycling routes around Colomera, offering a variety of experiences. While many are challenging, there are also moderate options for those seeking a less strenuous ride.

The routes around Colomera feature diverse terrain, from mostly paved surfaces around the reservoirs to more challenging unpaved segments and steep ascents in higher elevations. You'll find a mix of rolling hills, flat sections, and climbs, often winding through areas rich in aromatic plants like rosemary and thyme.

While many routes in Colomera are rated as difficult, some sections and specific routes can be enjoyed by families. The Gollizno Route and Moclín Castle Loop, for instance, incorporates the family-friendly Gollizno Suspension Bridge, offering scenic walkways that can be part of a cycling adventure. Look for routes with less elevation gain and paved surfaces for easier rides.

Many routes offer spectacular views. The Embalse de Colomera — circular by Tózar and Benalúa de las Villas route provides beautiful scenery around the Colomera Reservoir. The Cubillas Reservoir, visible from routes like Shore of the Cubillas Reservoir – Cubillas Reservoir loop, also offers impressive views, often with the Sierra Nevada mountains in the background. The Puerto de los Lobos Harteros is known for its breathtaking panoramic vistas.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Embalse de Colomera — circular by Tózar and Benalúa de las Villas and the Shore of the Cubillas Reservoir – Cubillas Reservoir loop, which offer scenic circular tours around the local reservoirs.

The region is rich in history. You can cycle past or near sites like Moclín Castle, a 14th-century Nasrid fortress offering impressive views. The Pinos Puente Bridge, of Arab origin, is another significant historical structure. Colomera itself has remains of an old fortress, and a Roman Bridge points to the town's ancient past.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from 13 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the quiet roads, and the combination of natural beauty with historical attractions, making for a rewarding touring cycling experience.

Yes, while many routes are challenging, there are moderate options. For example, the Path along the Genil River loop from Pinos Puente offers a moderate ride with less elevation gain, making it suitable for those looking for a less intense touring experience.

The best time for touring cycling in Colomera is generally during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) months. During these periods, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, avoiding the intense heat of summer and the cooler, potentially wetter conditions of winter. This allows for comfortable rides and optimal enjoyment of the scenery.

Yes, the region's reservoirs, particularly the Embalse de Colomera and the Cubillas Reservoir, offer opportunities for swimming, canoeing, windsurfing, sailing, and even water cycling. Many touring routes pass by these scenic bodies of water, allowing for a refreshing break or a multi-sport day.

Public transport options to Colomera, especially with bikes, can be limited. It's advisable to check with local bus operators like ALSA directly regarding their bike transport policy and specific routes, as policies can vary. Often, disassembling bikes or using bike bags is required, or space may be subject to availability.

Parking is generally available in Colomera village itself. For routes starting outside the village, look for designated parking areas near popular trailheads or attractions. For instance, if you're cycling around the Cubillas Reservoir, there might be parking options near Urbanización Los Cortijos 2, which is a common starting point for that loop.