The best traffic-free bike rides around Los Realejos

Los Realejos offers a selection of 8 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails. These routes range from moderate to difficult, providing diverse challenges for riders seeking an adventure away from cars.

The gravel bike trails in Los Realejos traverse a dramatically varied volcanic landscape. You can expect everything from fine gravel and rocky paths to smooth red soil, often winding through dense pine and laurel forests, and sometimes offering coastal views. Be prepared for significant elevation changes, with many routes involving over 1,000 meters of ascent.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For example, the View of Teide – Restaurante Las Lagunetas loop from La Orotava offers a challenging ride with stunning vistas. Another option is the La Caldera Recreation Area – Galería Pino Soler loop from Parking La Caldera, which is a moderate, shorter loop perfect for exploring the local area.

The trails often pass through or near significant natural areas. You might encounter the vast pine forests of the Corona Forestal Natural Park or the unique coastal landscape of La Rambla de Castro. Keep an eye out for impressive rock formations like Roque Cinchado or the dramatic La Catedral in Teide National Park. The region is also home to ancient dragon trees, including the second oldest in Tenerife.

Absolutely. Many routes offer breathtaking panoramic views. The La Corona Viewpoint, for instance, provides spectacular vistas of the Orotava Valley, the Atlantic Ocean, and Mount Teide on clear days. The Viewpoint of San Pedro also offers stunning views of green palms and banana trees against the blue sea.

Tenerife, including Los Realejos, enjoys a mild climate year-round, making it suitable for gravel biking in most seasons. However, the cooler, drier months from autumn to spring (October to May) are generally preferred, as summer can be quite warm, especially at lower elevations. Always check local weather forecasts, as conditions can vary significantly between coastal and higher-altitude areas.

While many routes in Los Realejos involve significant elevation and are rated moderate to difficult, the La Caldera Recreation Area – Galería Pino Soler loop from Parking La Caldera is a shorter, moderate option that might be more suitable for families with some gravel biking experience. It offers a pleasant ride within a recreational area.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Los Realejos, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse and challenging volcanic terrain, the stunning panoramic views, and the sense of adventure found on these traffic-free routes. The unique landscapes, from dense forests to high-altitude volcanic fields, are frequently highlighted.

Many trailheads, especially those near recreational areas or villages, offer designated parking. For example, the La Caldera Recreation Area – Galería Pino Soler loop starts from Parking La Caldera, providing convenient access. Routes originating from areas like La Guancha or Aguamansa also typically have parking options nearby.

While many of the no-traffic routes venture into natural parks and more remote areas, some trails pass near small villages or recreational zones where you might find cafes or restaurants. For instance, the View of Teide – Restaurante Las Lagunetas loop explicitly mentions a restaurant, suggesting a potential stop. It's always advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer or more remote rides.

The longest no-traffic gravel bike trail is the View of Teide – Restaurante Las Lagunetas loop from La Orotava, covering approximately 55.9 kilometers with significant elevation gain, making it a challenging and rewarding ride for experienced gravel bikers.

While general cycling on most public trails does not require a permit, certain protected areas, especially within the Teide National Park or specific natural monuments, might have regulations or require permits for off-road cycling or access to particular zones. It's always best to check with local authorities or park information centers for the most up-to-date requirements before heading out.