The best traffic-free bike rides around Les Planes D'Hostoles

There are over 95 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Les Planes D'Hostoles. These routes cater to various fitness levels, with options ranging from easy to difficult.

The terrain is diverse, reflecting the region's unique landscape. You'll find sections along the Vía Verde Olot–Girona, a largely paved greenway built on a former railway line, offering smooth riding. Other routes may take you through the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park with its distinctive volcanic features, or along river valleys and into the mountainous areas of the PEIN Collsacabra, which can include steeper climbs and some unpaved segments.

Yes, there are 19 easy no-traffic touring cycling routes available in the area, perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. These routes often utilize the well-maintained greenways, providing a gentle introduction to cycling in the region.

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Les Planes D'Hostoles. The weather is milder, and the natural landscapes are particularly vibrant. Summer can be warm, especially in the middle of the day, while winter offers cooler temperatures, though the region's humid climate means dense vegetation year-round.

Absolutely. Many routes offer access to the region's stunning natural features. You can cycle near the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, home to extinct volcanoes like Santa Margarida Volcano and the unique Croscat Volcano Scoria Slopes. The Brugent River also carves picturesque gorges with natural pools and waterfalls, such as Sallent Waterfall or La Foradada Waterfall and Mill, though access to some protected areas may require reservations during peak season.

The region is rich in medieval heritage. You can find routes that pass by historical sites such as the ruins of Hostoles Castle or the standing chapel of Sant Salvador at Puig-alder Castle. The charming medieval village of Rupit Village is also a popular attraction nearby. Additionally, you might encounter Romanesque churches like Santa Maria de les Encies or Sant Cristòfol de Cogolls.

Yes, Les Planes D'Hostoles is an excellent starting point for circular touring cycling routes. For example, consider the "Amer Station – Via Verde Olot–Girona loop from Sant Feliu de Pallerols" or the "This road view stunning – Station Path loop from les Planes d'Hostoles" for a comprehensive experience of the local landscape.

While direct public transport options to the start of every specific no-traffic route might be limited, the Vía Verde Olot–Girona, a key component of many car-free routes, connects larger towns like Olot and Girona, which are more accessible by bus. From these points, you can often begin your cycling adventure.

Les Planes D'Hostoles, as a cycling-friendly hub, offers various parking options within the town center or near popular access points for the Vía Verde. Look for designated parking areas, especially near the former railway stations which often serve as trailheads for greenways.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the car-free routes, the stunning natural beauty of the volcanic landscapes and river gorges, and the well-maintained greenways that make for enjoyable and accessible cycling.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 53 difficult no-traffic touring cycling routes. These routes often feature significant elevation gains and longer distances, such as the "Heart of Anglès Sculpture – Susqueda Reservoir loop from les Planes d'Hostoles" which includes nearly 900 meters of ascent, or the "Sant Feliu de Pallerols – Col de Bas loop from Sant Feliu de Pallerols" with almost 1000 meters of climbing.

While the dedicated no-traffic sections, especially greenways, might not have frequent establishments directly on the path, many routes pass through or near charming villages like Les Planes D'Hostoles itself, Cogolls, or Sant Feliu de Pallerols. These villages offer opportunities to stop for refreshments, meals, or to replenish supplies.

The Brugent River, which flows through the area, is known for its natural pools and gorges. While access to some protected areas like Cogolls, Can Poeti, Plana, and Santa Margarida gorges may require reservations during peak summer months, you can often find refreshing spots to cool off near the cycling routes. Always check local regulations and safety before swimming.