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

There are over 30 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Les Planes D'Hostoles, offering a wide range of distances and difficulty levels for exploration.

The region is exceptional for gravel biking due to its diverse landscapes, including volcanic terrain and the well-maintained Ruta del Carrilet Greenway. A significant portion of the area lies within the Natural Park of the Volcanic Zone of Garrotxa, providing varied and interesting topography away from vehicle traffic. The Greenways, built on old railway lines, offer smooth, packed granite sand surfaces perfect for gravel bikes.

Yes, the Ruta del Carrilet Greenway is particularly suitable for families. It offers a gentle average gradient of about 1.5% and is largely traffic-free, making it a safe and enjoyable option for riders of all ages. You can find sections of this greenway incorporated into routes like the Col de Bas – Ruta del Carrilet Greenway loop from Amer.

You'll encounter a rich variety of natural features, including volcanic landscapes, lush riverine flora along the Brugent River and Cogolls Stream, and numerous waterfalls and gorges. Highlights include the stunning La Foradada Waterfall and Mill and the refreshing Molí dels Murris Pool. Many trails also offer views of the Garrotxa Volcanic Area.

Absolutely. While many routes utilize the gentle Greenways, the region also offers more demanding gravel rides with significant elevation gains. For instance, the View of Sant Roc d'Amer – Les Serres Road loop from Granolleres de Rocacorba provides a challenging experience with over 600 meters of ascent over 50 km.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Les Planes D'Hostoles, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summers can be warm, but the shaded sections of the Greenways and opportunities for refreshing stops at natural pools make it enjoyable. Winters are typically mild, though some higher elevation routes might be cooler.

Yes, many of the gravel bike trails in the area are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Sant Martí Sacalm – Ruta del Carrilet Greenway loop from Sant Feliu de Pallerols, which offers a substantial loop through varied terrain.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Les Planes D'Hostoles, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the no-traffic routes, the stunning volcanic landscapes, and the accessibility of the Greenways. The natural pools and waterfalls along the way are also frequently highlighted as refreshing stops.

Yes, the diverse terrain offers numerous scenic spots. You can find breathtaking vistas, such as the Viewpoint Over the Fornils Valley and Susqueda Reservoir. Many routes also provide picturesque views of the Garrotxa Volcanic Area and the surrounding mountain ranges.

The Ruta del Carrilet Greenway, which forms the backbone of many gravel routes, connects several towns, including Olot and Girona. While direct public transport to every trailhead might vary, these larger towns are generally well-connected, allowing for access to different sections of the greenway and connecting trails.

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages along the main Greenways and near popular trailheads. For routes starting from Les Planes D'Hostoles itself, you'll find designated parking areas within the town. Always check local signage for specific parking regulations.

Many routes in the area cleverly combine the smooth surfaces of the Greenways with more rugged gravel paths and forest tracks. This allows for a varied riding experience, transitioning seamlessly between different terrains. The Via Verde Carrilet Girona–Olot – View of Sant Roc d'Amer loop from Granolleres de Rocacorba is a great example, blending the Greenways with more challenging sections.