The best gravel rides around Lana

There are 17 gravel bike trails around Lana, offering a variety of experiences. The majority, 12 routes, are considered difficult, while 5 are moderate, catering to different skill levels.

Lana offers a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find scenic rides through extensive apple orchards and vineyards in the Etschtal Valley, which are relatively flat. For more challenging adventures, routes include significant altitude variations and climbs to mountain passes like the Mendel Pass and Gampen Pass. Some trails are quite rugged, even requiring you to push your bike at times.

While many routes in Lana are challenging, the region's extensive apple orchards and vineyards in the Etschtal Valley offer relatively flat and scenic paths that can be suitable for families. These areas provide a gentler introduction to gravel biking amidst beautiful scenery.

Lana is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can explore areas with stunning mountain views, including the Ortler Alps and Ötztal Alps. Don't miss the Izki Gorge Viewpoint for dramatic scenery, or the Arquijas Viaduct and Arquijas Tunnel for historical interest. The region also features ancient irrigation channels called 'Waalwege' that offer panoramic paths.

Thanks to its unique Alpine-Mediterranean climate, Lana is excellent for gravel biking for much of the year. Spring brings blooming apple orchards, while autumn offers golden vineyards. The diverse flora, from palms in the valley to mountain pines at higher elevations, ensures a vibrant landscape throughout the seasons.

Yes, Lana is situated along the historic Via Claudia Augusta long-distance bike trail, offering extensive touring options beyond the immediate area. This provides opportunities for multi-day adventures or longer rides connecting to other regions.

The gravel biking routes in Lana are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.5 stars. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from scenic valley rides through orchards to challenging mountain climbs, and the unique Alpine-Mediterranean landscape.

Yes, many of the gravel routes around Lana are designed as loops. For instance, the Atauri Tunnel – Vasco-Navarro Railway Bridge loop from Santa Cruz de Campezo / Santikurutze Kanpezu is a moderate 26.4 km circular route that offers a great experience.

Absolutely. Lana offers several difficult routes for experienced gravel bikers. A prime example is the Estella-Lizarra – View of the Sierra de Lokiz loop from Acedo, which spans 85.6 km with significant elevation gain, providing a demanding and rewarding ride.

The views are spectacular and varied. You'll ride through lush apple orchards and vineyards with the backdrop of the Etschtal Valley, and ascend to higher elevations offering panoramic vistas of the Dolomites, Ortler Alps, and Ötztal Alps. The unique Alpine-Mediterranean climate ensures a beautiful and ever-changing landscape.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can encounter charming villages and historical sites. The village of Santa Cruz de Campezo is a notable settlement you might pass through. Lana itself is rich in history, with around 40 churches, chapels, and monasteries, and historical castles like Leoneburg and Braunsberg.

For a moderate gravel biking experience, consider the Atauri Tunnel – Vasco-Navarro Railway Bridge loop from Santa Cruz de Campezo / Santikurutze Kanpezu. This 26.4 km route offers a balanced challenge without the extreme demands of some of the more difficult trails.