The best traffic-free bike rides around Autol

There are over 20 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Autol. These routes are designed to keep you away from busy roads, offering a peaceful and immersive cycling experience through the region's diverse landscapes.

Autol's gravel trails offer a varied terrain, from the undulating paths of the Cidacos Basin to the more challenging climbs in the Monte de Yerga and Sierra de Yerga areas. You'll encounter a mix of unpaved roads, forest tracks, and farm trails, providing a true gravel biking experience.

While many routes in the area are rated as difficult, there are options for less experienced riders. For example, the Gravel route of upper Cidacos, despite its length, offers a chance to experience the region's gravel paths. Always check the route details for elevation and surface type to match your skill level.

Many routes will take you past unique geological formations and historical sites. Keep an eye out for the striking sandstone monoliths of El Picuezo and La Picueza. You might also pass by the Peña Isasa or the Cidacos River. The Autol and its Picuezos – Cidacos Greenway loop from Arnedo specifically highlights these natural wonders.

Many of the quiet gravel trails in Autol are suitable for cycling with dogs, especially those that follow less technical paths away from main roads. However, it's always recommended to check local regulations, keep your dog on a leash, and ensure they are well-behaved around wildlife and other trail users. The natural areas like Monte de Yerga are home to wildlife, so caution is advised.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Autol, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be hot, especially in the open plains of the Cidacos Basin, so early morning or late afternoon rides are advisable. Winter can bring colder temperatures and potentially wet or muddy conditions on some unpaved tracks, particularly in higher elevations like Sierra de Yerga.

Yes, the region is rich in history. For instance, the Senda de los Cuñados – Ermita de San Marcos loop from Arnedo will take you past the Ermita de San Marcos. The Monte de Yerga area also contains ruins of the 12th-century hermitage of Santa María de Yerga, adding a historical dimension to your ride.

The gravel bike routes around Autol vary significantly in length. You can find shorter loops, such as the Senda de los Cuñados – Ermita de San Marcos loop from Arnedo at around 26 km, to much longer, more challenging rides like the Gravel route of upper Cidacos, which spans over 90 km.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Autol, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the no-traffic routes, the diverse landscapes ranging from river basins to mountainous areas, and the opportunity to discover unique natural formations and historical sites away from crowds.

Absolutely. Many of the routes in Autol are rated as difficult, offering significant elevation gain and technical sections perfect for advanced riders seeking a challenge away from cars. The Vilarroya – Yerga Summit loop from Rincón de Soto, for example, features substantial climbing through the Sierra de Yerga, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience.

While many routes are rated difficult, families can find sections of the Cidacos Basin that offer flatter, less technical gravel paths. Look for routes that utilize greenways or old railway lines, which are typically well-maintained and have minimal elevation changes, providing a safer and more enjoyable experience for younger riders. Always check the route's specific details and difficulty before heading out with children.