The best gravel rides around Mendaza

Mendaza offers a good selection of gravel biking routes, with over 17 tours available. These routes cater to various skill levels, though most are considered difficult.

The gravel routes around Mendaza are characterized by varied terrain, including the expansive Ebro Valley and views of the Sierra de Lokiz. You'll encounter a mix of open landscapes and sections that utilize old railway lines, some even featuring tunnels, providing a diverse and interesting environment for cycling.

While many routes in Mendaza are rated as difficult, there are 4 moderate gravel bike trails available. For beginners, it's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot to ensure it matches your comfort and skill level. The region's terrain, with its river valleys and mountain ranges, often presents a challenge.

Mendaza is known for its challenging gravel routes, with 13 difficult tours. A notable option is the Viana Historic Centre – Torres del Río loop from Bargota, a 47.3 km trail with significant elevation changes. Another challenging ride is the Granada Tunnel – View of the Sierra de Lokiz loop from Desojo, covering 66.2 km.

The gravel bike trails around Mendaza vary significantly in length and duration. For example, the Viana Historic Centre – Torres del Río loop from Bargota is about 47.3 km and takes around 3 hours 44 minutes. Longer routes, like the Granada Tunnel – View of the Sierra de Lokiz loop from Desojo, stretch to 66.2 km and can take over 4 hours 30 minutes to complete.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Mendaza, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 120 gravel bikers have explored the varied terrain, often praising the diverse environment that includes river valleys, mountain ranges, and repurposed railway lines.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in Mendaza are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Viana Historic Centre – Torres del Río loop from Bargota and the Granada Tunnel – View of the Sierra de Lokiz loop from Desojo, providing convenient options for your ride.

While gravel biking around Mendaza, you can encounter several interesting landmarks. Highlights include the historic Church of Santa María in Los Arcos, the ancient Fuente de los Moros, and the impressive Arquijas Tunnel. You might also find scenic viewpoints like the View of Sansol.

The best time for gravel biking in Mendaza is generally during spring and autumn when the weather is milder and the landscapes are vibrant. Summer can be hot, while winter might bring colder temperatures and potentially wet conditions, especially in higher elevations or through tunnels.

Specific parking information for each trail isn't always detailed, but many routes start from towns or villages like Torres del Río, Murieta, Bargota, or Desojo. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen komoot tour for local parking options, which often include public spaces or designated areas within these communities.

To find less crowded routes, consider exploring trails that are not explicitly highlighted as 'most popular' or 'top favourite' in the guide's introduction. While all routes offer a chance to experience the region's beauty, opting for less prominent tours or riding during off-peak hours (weekdays, early mornings) can provide a more solitary experience.

Many gravel bike routes in Mendaza pass through or near small towns and villages. While specific establishments aren't listed in the route details, you can often find local cafes, bars, or small shops in places like Torres del Río, Murieta, Viana, or Desojo, which are common starting or passing points for tours. It's a good idea to check your route on komoot for points of interest or towns along the way where you might find refreshments.