The best traffic-free bike rides around Santurtzi

Komoot features 15 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Santurtzi. These routes vary in length and difficulty, offering diverse experiences for gravel biking enthusiasts.

The trails around Santurtzi are unique due to their blend of maritime heritage and industrial history. Many routes utilize former mining railway lines, like sections of the Vía Verde Montes de Hierro, offering smooth gradients and a journey through dense forests, past historical mining vestiges, and often culminating in stunning coastal views.

While many routes are rated 'difficult' due to elevation, the Vía Verde Montes de Hierro, accessible from areas like Gallarta (a short bus ride from Santurtzi), offers sections with smooth gradients and varied terrain (compacted earth and asphalt) that are suitable for a range of fitness levels, including beginners looking for a less challenging ride.

You'll encounter a rich tapestry of landscapes, from the historical mining regions with their unique industrial heritage to the stunning coastal views of El Abra Bay. Routes often pass by natural features like Pozo Hostión and the Lakes of the Old Iron Mines. The iconic Mount Serantes also offers panoramic vistas.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the "El Sobaco Tunnel – A & C Tunnel Entrance loop from Putxeta" offers a substantial circular experience through the region's diverse terrain.

The Basque Country generally enjoys a mild climate. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and lush scenery, making them ideal for gravel biking. Summer can be warm but is also popular, especially along coastal sections. Winter rides are possible, but check local weather conditions as some unpaved sections might be muddy after rain.

Many natural trails and greenways in the region, including sections of the Vía Verde, are generally dog-friendly, provided your dog is well-behaved and kept on a leash. Always be mindful of other users and local regulations, especially in more populated areas or protected natural spaces.

For families, sections of the Vía Verde Montes de Hierro are particularly suitable. Its smooth gradients and car-free environment provide a safe and enjoyable experience. Look for routes with shorter distances and less elevation gain to ensure a comfortable ride for all family members.

The komoot community rates the gravel biking experience around Santurtzi highly, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the routes, the historical mining landscapes, and the rewarding views, especially from elevated points like Mount Serantes.

The Vía Verde Montes de Hierro passes through or near several towns and villages in the Bizkaia region. You'll find opportunities for refreshments and meals in places like Gallarta or Muskiz, which are connected to the greenway. It's always a good idea to check opening hours, especially outside peak season.

Santurtzi is well-connected by public transport, including metro and bus services, which can help you reach starting points for various routes. For example, buses connect Santurtzi to areas like Gallarta, providing access to the Vía Verde. If driving, parking is generally available in the towns and villages near trailheads, though it might be limited during peak times.