The best traffic-free bike rides around Valles Oriental

Valles Oriental offers a wide selection of routes for gravel biking with minimal traffic. You'll find over 200 dedicated trails, ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

The terrain in Valles Oriental is incredibly diverse. You can expect a mix of landscapes, from the dense forests of Montseny Natural Park to scenic routes along rivers in the Mogent, Congost, and Tenes valleys. Trails vary from mostly paved surfaces to challenging dirt roads, sometimes requiring advanced riding skills. The region's varied topography, including the Serralada Litoral and Prelitoral mountain ranges, ensures a dynamic riding experience.

Yes, Valles Oriental has options suitable for families. While many routes cater to moderate to difficult riders, there are 8 easy routes available. Look for trails that stick to flatter river valleys or well-maintained rural paths, such as those found in the Espacio Rural de Gallecs, which offer tranquil settings away from traffic.

The trails in Valles Oriental cater to a broad range of abilities. You'll find 8 easy routes, 78 moderate routes, and 143 difficult routes. For example, the Besòs Riverside Park – Besòs River Promenade loop from les Franqueses - Granollers Nord is a moderate option, while the Cornice Viewpoint – Gravel Parc loop from Cardedeu presents a more difficult challenge.

Valles Oriental is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. Many routes pass through or near significant areas like Montseny Natural Park and Sant Llorenç del Munt i l'Obac Natural Park. You might encounter mountain passes such as Parpers Pass or Òrrius Pass. The region also features charming villages and historical architecture, especially in towns like Granollers and Caldes de Montbui.

Yes, many of the gravel bike trails in Valles Oriental are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and end your ride at the same point. An example of a circular route is the Can Cabanyes Natural Area – Riu Congost Greenway loop from la Garriga, which allows you to explore the area without needing a return trip.

Valles Oriental is generally suitable for gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes, making them ideal. Summer can be warm, especially in the valleys, so early morning rides are recommended. Winter rides are also possible, particularly on lower elevation routes, though higher areas like Montseny might experience colder conditions.

Valles Oriental is well-connected and many routes are easily accessible from major urban centers. Towns like Granollers, La Garriga, and Cardedeu, which serve as starting points for several routes, have public transport links. It's advisable to check local train or bus schedules to plan your journey to the trailhead.

The komoot community highly rates gravel biking in Valles Oriental, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. Riders often praise the extensive network of quiet paths, the diverse and scenic landscapes, and the feeling of being immersed in nature away from traffic. The combination of challenging climbs and rewarding views is frequently highlighted.

Absolutely. The Vall del Carbonell is known as a less urbanized and industrialized heart of Valles Oriental, making it ideal for quiet gravel cycling. Routes like the 'Vallès feréstec gravel' also venture towards the Cingles de Bertí and Sant Miquel del Fai, showcasing the wilder side of the region and offering a truly traffic-free experience.

Yes, Valles Oriental offers routes that blend natural beauty with rich history. For instance, the 'Five Castles gravel ride' starting in Caldes de Montbui connects medieval castles like Castell de Montbui, Gallifa, Guanta, Sentmenat, and Plegamans. Additionally, some routes in the Mogent Valley combine nature with the Alella DO wine route and archaeological sites, providing a diverse experience.