The best traffic-free bike rides around Garrotxa

Garrotxa offers a substantial network of traffic-free gravel bike trails. Our collection features over 40 routes, with a mix of moderate and challenging options, ensuring a diverse experience for all skill levels.

The terrain in Garrotxa is incredibly varied, ranging from smooth gravel paths and old railway tracks converted into greenways to more challenging forest paths and climbs. You'll encounter rolling hills, sections through ancient lava flows, and diverse forests, all designed to keep you away from vehicle traffic.

While many routes in Garrotxa are rated as difficult due to elevation and distance, the region's extensive network of greenways, like sections of the Ruta del Carrilet, offers flatter, car-free options suitable for families. These paths often connect charming villages and natural sights, providing a pleasant and safe cycling experience.

Garrotxa is famous for its volcanic landscape. You can explore the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, home to 38 volcanic cones and lava flows. Highlights include the unique Molí dels Murris Pool and the enchanting Fageda d'en Jordà beech forest, which grows on an ancient lava flow. Many routes offer stunning views of these geological wonders.

Absolutely. Garrotxa is dotted with well-preserved medieval villages that make for excellent stops. You can cycle through or near towns like Besalú, famous for its Romanesque bridge, or Castellfollit de la Roca, perched dramatically on a basalt cliff. Olot, the regional capital, is also a great base for exploring both natural and historical sites.

Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes in Garrotxa are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the challenging Lake Banyoles – Saint Mary of Porqueres loop from Besalú offers a substantial circular ride, and the Lake Banyoles – Lake Banyoles loop from Maià de Montcal provides another option around the beautiful lake.

Garrotxa enjoys a mild climate for much of the year, making it suitable for gravel biking almost year-round. To best avoid traffic, focus on the extensive network of dedicated gravel paths and greenways. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while winter can also be enjoyable on clear days. Summer can be hot, so early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended.

The no-traffic gravel routes in Garrotxa are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.79 out of 5 stars from over 30 reviews. Riders often praise the stunning volcanic landscapes, the tranquility of the car-free paths, and the charm of the medieval villages encountered along the way.

Yes, several routes incorporate beautiful water features. The Lake Banyoles – Lake Banyoles loop from Maià de Montcal is a great option for exploring the scenic Lake Banyoles. Additionally, you might encounter picturesque waterfalls like the La Plana Pool or the Riera de Sant Aniol Waterfalls on some of the trails.

Absolutely. Garrotxa offers plenty of challenging no-traffic gravel routes with significant elevation gains. For instance, the Gravel route from Besalù via the sanctuary of the Mother of God of the Mount covers over 66 km with more than 1600 meters of ascent. Another demanding option is the Col de Bas – Croscat Volcano Natural Area loop from Olot, providing a substantial workout through varied terrain.

While there isn't a specific route named for it in our current selection, many trails in the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park pass through the vicinity of Castellfollit de la Roca. Cycling in the area around Olot or through the Fluvià river valley will often provide stunning views of this unique medieval town perched atop its dramatic basalt cliff.

Garrotxa's diverse vegetation means you'll ride through a variety of forests. Expect to encounter lush holm oak and oak forests, especially in the lower altitudes. A truly unique experience is cycling through the Fageda d'en Jordà, an enchanting beech forest that thrives on an ancient lava flow, offering a magical and serene atmosphere.