The best gravel rides in the Cantabrian Mountains

There are over 210 gravel bike trails in the Cantabrian Mountains, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored these routes over 1100 times, highlighting the region's popularity for gravel biking.

The Cantabrian Mountains offer a diverse range of gravel biking experiences. While there are a few easy routes, the majority of trails are classified as moderate or difficult. For example, the Gravel tour to the Natural Park of Las Ubiñas-La Mesa along the Senda del Oso (Bear Trail) is a challenging 45-mile route, and the Gravel loop in Saja-Besaya natural park is a difficult 53.2-mile path, both featuring significant elevation changes.

Gravel bikers in the Cantabrian Mountains can expect a varied terrain, including compacted earth, loose gravel, and forest trails. Routes often combine these surfaces with country and secondary roads, providing an engaging ride through dramatic peaks, lush valleys, and historic areas. You'll encounter everything from demanding climbs in mountainous areas to gentler stretches along river valleys.

Yes, the region offers several long-distance gravel routes. For instance, the Gravel route through the mines and mountains of Asturias is a substantial 71.7-mile trail. Another option is the Ascent to O Cebreiro – Alto do Poio loop from Padornelo, which spans over 64 miles and features significant elevation gain.

The Cantabrian Mountains are rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can explore dramatic gorges like the Ruta del Cares, enjoy panoramic views from spots like El Cable Viewpoint, or discover unique geological formations such as the Dwarves' Tunnels on the Cares Trail. The region also features lush forests, river valleys, and charming villages.

Yes, many routes in the Cantabrian Mountains are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. A popular example is the Gravel loop in Saja-Besaya natural park. Other circular options include coastal loops like Playa de Torimbia – San Antolín de Bedón Beach loop from Llanes and San Antolín de Bedón Beach – Llanes Marina loop from Ribadesella.

The Cantabrian Mountains are best enjoyed for gravel biking during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early autumn. This period offers more stable weather, less rainfall, and accessible high-altitude trails. While the region is known as 'Green Spain' due to its lushness, which means rain can occur, these months generally provide the most favorable conditions for exploring the diverse landscapes.

While many routes in the Cantabrian Mountains are challenging, there are options suitable for families looking for a less strenuous ride. Look for routes that follow old railway paths or river valleys, which tend to have gentler gradients. For example, the Stone Bridge of Proaza – Mine Railway Tunnel loop from Las Campas/Les Campes offers a more accessible experience through scenic landscapes.

The Cantabrian Mountains are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 110 reviews. Riders frequently praise the region's dramatic and varied landscapes, from the rugged peaks of Picos de Europa to the lush 'Green Spain' forests and scenic river valleys. The blend of challenging terrain and breathtaking views makes it a memorable destination.

Yes, some areas of the Cantabrian Mountains extend close to the coastline, offering unique routes that combine mountain riding with views of the Cantabrian Sea. You can find routes that traverse both inland and coastal scenery, such as the Playa de Torimbia – Torimbia Viewpoint loop from Llanes, which provides diverse landscapes within a single trip.

The Cantabrian Mountains are dotted with numerous viewpoints offering breathtaking vistas. Passes like Estacas de Trueba, Lunada, Piedrasluengas, and San Glorio are known for their panoramic views. Specific highlights include El Cable Viewpoint, accessible via the Fuente Dé Cable Car, which provides stunning high-altitude perspectives of the Picos de Europa.