The best gravel rides around Cuenca

Gravel biking around Cuenca offers a wide range of difficulties. While there are a few easier routes, the majority of the trails are quite challenging. Out of 28 available tours, 20 are rated as difficult, 7 as moderate, and only 1 as easy. The high-altitude páramo and Andean terrain often involve significant elevation changes and technical sections, making many routes suitable for experienced riders. For example, the challenging View of the Júcar River – View of the Júcar River loop from Cerro de los Cerezos covers over 60 miles with substantial climbing.

You can expect a diverse range of terrain. The region is characterized by Andean highlands and páramo, offering raw, elevated landscapes with untouched gravel tracks and cloud forest trails. Many routes also follow picturesque river valleys, such as those along the Tomebamba and Yanuncay rivers, which provide a mix of urban and natural scenery. Expect everything from technical rocky sections in higher elevations to relatively flat riverside paths and ancient dirt tracks.

Cuenca generally enjoys a mild climate year-round, making it suitable for outdoor activities like gravel biking throughout the year. However, it's advisable to be prepared for potential afternoon showers, especially during certain seasons. For high-altitude routes, acclimatization is important, and strong winds can be common. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, there are options suitable for families, particularly along the city's rivers. The relatively flat sections of trails along the Tomebamba and Yanuncay rivers offer a gentler experience. These routes often combine physical activity with cultural exploration of Cuenca's colonial architecture and green spaces like Parque Paraíso and Parque de la Madre, which feature playgrounds and tranquil areas.

Many routes offer stunning natural beauty and cultural sights. You can explore the dramatic landscapes of the Andean highlands, including areas reminiscent of El Cajas National Park with its glacial lakes and unique páramo ecosystem. Within the city, trails often pass through Cuenca's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing colonial architecture. Some routes also lead to viewpoints like Ventano del Diablo or natural monuments such as the Source of the Cuervo River, offering panoramic views and unique geological formations.

Yes, many gravel bike routes around Cuenca are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Júcar Riverside Walk – Júcar Gorge loop from Cuenca is a moderate 22.1-mile path that follows the Júcar River, providing a mix of urban and natural scenery. Another option is the Plaza Mayor of Cuenca – San Pablo Bridge loop from Cuenca, a more challenging 79.5 km route.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 10 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse and challenging terrain, the stunning Andean landscapes, and the opportunity to combine physical activity with cultural exploration. The variety of routes, from high-altitude páramo to picturesque riverside trails, is frequently highlighted as a major draw.

While the guide data doesn't specify permits for general gravel biking, areas like El Cajas National Park, which is less than an hour from Cuenca, are protected. If your route takes you deep into the national park or involves specific activities, it's always best to check with the park authorities for any required permits or regulations to ensure a smooth and respectful visit.

Cuenca's city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers numerous cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options that are easily accessible from many riverside and urban-adjacent gravel routes. For routes extending into the more remote Andean highlands or near areas like El Cajas National Park, services become scarcer. It's advisable to plan your hydration and food stops in advance for longer, more isolated rides.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can cycle through Cuenca's historic city center, admiring its colonial architecture. Routes often lead to panoramic viewpoints such as Mirador de Turi, offering sweeping views of the city. For those exploring the gorges, highlights like Estrecho del Horcajo Viewpoint and Puntal de la Tola Viewpoint provide breathtaking vistas of the dramatic landscapes.

Yes, the wider Ecuadorian Andes, accessible from Cuenca, feature ancient paths and some tours that follow old Ecuadorian train tracks. These routes offer a unique historical and natural experience, often passing through green Andean landscapes and sometimes leading to archaeological complexes. These paths can provide a distinct gravel biking adventure, blending history with scenic beauty.

There are over 25 gravel bike trails available around Cuenca, offering a diverse range of experiences. The komoot community has mapped 28 distinct tours, providing options for various skill levels and preferences, from challenging high-altitude loops to more moderate riverside rides.