Vall del Bac and Llongarriu Loop via Vall de Bianya

This is classified as a difficult touring bicycle route, best suited for experienced cyclists. It features a significant elevation gain of nearly 960 meters over its 49 km distance, including a long and hard climb in Vall del Bac with steep and sustained gradients that require good fitness.

The route offers a varied terrain, including national roads, cycle paths, and streets, suggesting a mix of paved and potentially unpaved sections. You'll encounter a long asphalt road ascent in Vall del Bac, which includes hard ramps and a 'treacherous layout' of climbs and descents. Some sections in the broader region are known for uneven roads, potholes, and even gravel.

You can expect beautiful and varied scenery, characteristic of the Garrotxa region. The Vall de Bianya offers a rural and bucolic landscape with centuries-old farmhouses, churches, hermitages, pastures, crops, and forests. Views often include the majestic Pyrenees, and the area is known for its lush green vegetation.

Yes, the route passes by several interesting points. You can find refreshments at Hostal de la Vall de Bianya, admire the religious architecture of Mare de Déu dels Àngels de Llongarriu, and pass through the unique settlement of Castellfollit de la Roca.

While specific parking areas for this exact route start are not detailed, the route is circular and located in the Valley of Bianya. It's advisable to look for public parking in one of the villages within the Valley of Bianya, such as Hostalnou de Bianya, which offers convenient access to the local road network.

The Garrotxa region, including the Valley of Bianya, is known for its lush green vegetation due to consistent rainfall. While specific seasonal advice isn't provided, spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures for cycling. Summers can be hot, and winters might be cooler, especially at higher elevations.

Yes, this route shares sections with several other trails. Notably, it covers 43% of the Ruta Transpirinenca en BTT (Cap de Creus - Campodron), 23% of [CIMA GI08] Capsacosta, and 17% of El Camí IT1TR3 El Camí Capçaler: de Salzes a Balaguer. You'll also find smaller sections overlapping with the Volta a peu a la Garrotxa and Sant Pau - Resclusanys - Vall del bac.

This route is designed for touring bicycles, and while dogs are generally welcome in the Garrotxa region, bringing a dog on a challenging 49 km bike tour of this difficulty might not be suitable for all pets. If you plan to bring a dog, ensure it is accustomed to long distances and varied terrain, and always keep it on a leash, especially near roads or in populated areas.

The route is located within the Parc Natural de la Zona Volcànica de la Garrotxa. Generally, there are no entrance fees or specific permits required for cycling on public roads and marked trails within the natural park. However, always respect local regulations, stay on marked paths, and be mindful of the natural environment.

On average, this touring bicycle route takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete. However, this duration can vary significantly based on your fitness level, the number and length of stops you make, and the specific conditions on the day of your ride.

Yes, as the name suggests, this is a circular route, meaning it starts and ends at the same point, allowing you to return to your starting location without needing to retrace your steps or arrange for transport.