The best traffic-free bike rides in Paraje Natural Municipal Els Cerros

There are 16 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails in Paraje Natural Municipal Els Cerros. These routes offer a range of experiences, from moderate to difficult, allowing you to explore the diverse landscapes without vehicle interference.

The trails in Els Cerros feature diverse terrain, including hilly topography with prominent peaks like La Talaia and Els Cerros. You'll ride through dense Aleppo pine forests and Mediterranean scrub, with some routes incorporating both paved and technical unpaved sections. Expect engaging climbs and scenic views of the Ribera Alta region.

Yes, Els Cerros offers several challenging no-traffic gravel bike routes. For instance, the View of Montserrat and El Real – L'Estepar Viewpoint loop from Real is a difficult 47 km ride with over 740 meters of elevation gain, providing a demanding experience for seasoned gravel bikers.

While many routes are moderate to difficult, there are options for those seeking a less strenuous ride. The L'Estepar Viewpoint – Torre Aledua Castle loop from Riu Magre is a moderate 6.6 km trail with about 170 meters of elevation, making it a good choice for a shorter, more accessible gravel biking experience.

Absolutely. The hilly landscape of Els Cerros provides numerous opportunities for panoramic views. Routes like the L'Estepar Viewpoint – Five Climbs loop from Llombai and the Montroy Viewpoint – Channel on the Magre River loop from Real are specifically named for their scenic overlooks, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding region.

Many of the gravel bike trails in Els Cerros are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Pico de los Cerros – Tres Pins Recreation Area loop from Llombai and the View of Montserrat and El Real – L'Estepar Viewpoint loop from Real, providing convenient circular routes for your ride.

The Mediterranean climate of Valencia generally makes spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) ideal for gravel biking in Els Cerros. Temperatures are milder, and the natural scenery is vibrant. Summers can be very hot, so early morning rides are recommended if visiting during those months.

Els Cerros is home to diverse Mediterranean wildlife. The area is particularly known for "la Cova de les Meravelles" (Cave of Wonders), which is a crucial refuge for various bat species, including some endangered ones. While cycling, you might also encounter typical Mediterranean scrub inhabitants such as various bird species, small mammals, and reptiles.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the trails, the challenging climbs, and the rewarding panoramic views from the higher peaks. The diverse landscapes, from dense pine forests to open scrubland, are also frequently highlighted.

While specific parking areas are not detailed for every trailhead, the municipality of Llombai and nearby towns like Real, which serve as starting points for many routes, typically offer public parking options. It's advisable to check local parking availability in these towns before your ride.

Given the varied terrain and potential for longer rides, it's recommended to pack essentials such as plenty of water, snacks, a repair kit (including spare tubes and a pump), sun protection (sunscreen, hat), and appropriate cycling attire. A GPS device or a fully charged phone with offline maps is also highly advisable for navigation.