The best traffic-free bike rides around Lanzarote

There are over 30 dedicated traffic-free gravel bike routes in Lanzarote, offering a wide range of experiences from easy rides to more challenging adventures. The island's unique volcanic landscape provides an ideal backdrop for exploring away from main roads.

Lanzarote's gravel trails offer a diverse and often otherworldly terrain. You'll encounter unpaved roads, solidified lava fields, and gravel tracks. The landscape is predominantly volcanic, featuring vast lava fields, dormant volcanoes, and arid plains. Routes can vary from smooth gravel to more rugged, rocky sections, providing a true gravel biking experience.

Yes, Lanzarote offers several easy, traffic-free gravel routes perfect for beginners. These trails typically feature less elevation gain and smoother surfaces. For example, the route Club La Santa – Montaña Bermeja loop from Bus Parking is rated as moderate and provides a good introduction to the island's gravel paths without being overly strenuous.

Lanzarote's gravel trails often lead through stunning volcanic landscapes and past unique natural features. You might cycle through the extraordinary wine region of La Geria, characterized by vines grown in volcanic ash pits, or enjoy dramatic coastal views. Many routes offer glimpses of the 'fire mountains' and provide access to impressive viewpoints (Miradores) like Mirador del Río, offering panoramic vistas over La Graciosa islet.

Absolutely. While many routes are accessible, Lanzarote also provides plenty of challenging, traffic-free options for advanced gravel bikers. These routes often feature significant elevation changes, including 'punchy' ascents and long false flats, and can traverse more rugged volcanic terrain. Routes like Famara Cove Beach – Historic Center of Teguise loop from Tinajo or View of Haría Valley – Historic Center of Teguise loop from San Bartolomé are rated as difficult and offer a substantial workout.

Lanzarote enjoys a mild climate year-round, making it suitable for gravel biking almost any time. To best avoid traffic, especially on popular routes, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) when the weather is still excellent but tourist numbers are lower than peak winter months. Early mornings are also ideal for a peaceful, traffic-free experience.

For families, look for routes described as 'easy' or 'moderate' with relatively flat profiles and well-maintained gravel surfaces. While specific 'family-friendly' designations are less common for gravel, the general 'no traffic' nature of these trails makes them safer. Consider shorter loops or out-and-back sections on wider tracks, ensuring they are within your family's comfort level and skill.

While many outdoor areas in Lanzarote are generally dog-friendly, it's important to check specific regulations for national parks, protected natural spaces, or private land that some trails might cross. Always keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, and ensure they are accustomed to longer rides and the volcanic terrain. Remember to carry enough water for both yourself and your pet, as shade and water sources can be scarce.

Yes, many of Lanzarote's traffic-free gravel bike routes are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. This is ideal for exploring diverse landscapes. Examples include Famara Cove Beach – Historic Center of Teguise loop from Caleta de Famara and Famara Cove Beach – Famara Dunes loop from Lanzarote, which offer varied scenery on a continuous loop.

The komoot community highly rates gravel biking in Lanzarote, with an average score of 4.26 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the island's unique 'lunar' volcanic landscapes, the sense of adventure and exploration on less-traveled paths, and the consistently mild climate. The variety of terrain, from smooth gravel to challenging rocky sections, also receives positive feedback, offering something for every skill level.

Yes, Lanzarote has a well-developed cycling infrastructure, including numerous bike rental companies across the island. Many shops offer a range of gravel bikes suitable for exploring the traffic-free trails. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season, and inquire about specific gravel bike models and accessories like repair kits or helmets.