The best traffic-free bike rides around Arce/Artzi
4.4
(45)
2,459
riders
8
rides
Road cycling around Arce/Artzi, located in Navarre, northern Spain, offers diverse terrain characterized by significant elevation gains and varied landscapes. The region features a mix of hills, green valleys, and forests, providing engaging rides for cyclists. Routes often include both paved and gravel surfaces, catering to different preferences. This area is well-suited for those seeking challenging no traffic road cycling routes with notable climbs.
Best no traffic road cycling routes around Arce/Artzi
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Iñarbe Gorge and Itoiz Reservoir Loop from Aoiz, a 40.0 miles (64.5 km) trail that takes 3 hours 24 minutes to complete. This difficult route features over 3,700 feet (1,138 meters) of elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Bizkarreta (SP) - Aldudes (FR) via Sorogain, a difficult 29.0 miles (46.8 km) path. This route crosses into France and includes over 4,100 feet (1,250 meters) of climbing.
- Local road cyclists also love the Heart of the Iraty forest – Burdincurutcheta Pass loop from Garralda, a 74.1 miles (119.3 km) trail leading through dense forest and mountain passes, often completed in about 7 hours 20 minutes.
- Road cycling around Arce/Artzi is defined by its green valleys, extensive forests, and significant elevation changes. The network offers options for both moderate and difficult ability levels, with routes featuring substantial climbs.
- The routes in Arce/Artzi are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 40 reviews. More than 2,300 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Arce/Artzi's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
52
riders
64.5km
03:24
1,140m
1,140m
This difficult 40.1-mile road cycling route from Aoiz offers challenging climbs, panoramic views of Embalse de Itoiz, and the Foz de Iñarbe.
4
riders
46.8km
03:14
1,250m
1,250m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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70
riders
119km
07:20
3,190m
3,190m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
69
riders
97.6km
05:18
1,790m
1,790m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
10
riders
61.0km
02:56
860m
860m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Arce/Artzi
Tips from the Community
The gas station shop is a full resupply if needed. They have ziplocks, toothbrushes, plenty of food, good cheeses and drinks. They have french canister fuel and are very friendly.
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An amazing place with magnificent views and birds of prey soaring just above your head. A spectacular sensation!
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It is a very pleasant straight of slides... by car... because by bike you notice them in your legs.
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One of the best discoveries this year. I was really looking forward to visiting this area of the Pyrenees, and it has clearly exceeded my expectations. In addition, it was a beautiful day, with sun and good temperature. I couldn't ask for more. Sorogain is a border crossing with 2 very different sides. The Spanish side is flat and enjoyable, crossing a beech forest, following the course of a stream and opening up the majestic valley in the final part, surrounded by horses and sheep. It is approximately 8km with an average gradient of 3%, with the last 2km being harder and with irregular slopes. The French side is also spectacular but much harder. It is also 8km but with an average gradient of 8% and peaks of 18%. There are several km with an average gradient of over 10%, and the final slope is 500m at 15%!!! The views of the Urepel valley are wonderful. The road on both sides is in perfect condition, although it is very narrow and you have to be careful with the few cars there are.
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Aurizberri, also known as Espinal, is a charming village in the region of Navarra. It is located in the municipality of Erro, in the picturesque Merindad de Sangüesa, and is part of the Auñamendi region. This village was founded in 1269 by Theobald II and is strategically located between the historic towns of Roncesvalles and Gerendiain. Aurizberri/Espinal is a popular stop for pilgrims following the Camino de Santiago, thanks to its location on the famous pilgrimage route that runs through the Pyrenees. The village is surrounded by beautiful countryside known for its rich flora and fauna, including trout and a variety of mushrooms, which play an important role in the local gastronomy.
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The Puerto de Laza is a small and beautiful hill that joins the valleys of Roncal (starting from Isaba) and Salazar (starting from Ochagavía) in the Navarrese Pyrenees. Both sides are very similar: a very easy start on a winding road, in perfect condition but without a hard shoulder, passing through small towns and going up the course of the respective rivers Anduña (Salazar valley) and Urbi (Roncal valley); a final stretch of 2 - 3 kms that is harder without being too much so, although there are some slopes above 10%. The Salazar valley side becomes harder when leaving behind the detour to the Larrau port. From here to the port there are 3 km with an average gradient of 7%. On the other hand, the Roncal valley side becomes harder when overcoming a bridge over the river that has been with us since we left Isaba behind. From here it is barely 2 km with an average gradient of 7%. From a landscape perspective, it is a port that I love because you can enjoy the exuberance of the vegetation of the Pyrenees, crossing narrow valleys and only with panoramic views when you reach the top, where there is a viewing point that is worth looking out at. A port that I always recommend for enjoying cycle tourism. I leave you the profile of both sides produced by the website www.cyclingcols.com --> http://www.cyclingcols.com/col/Laza
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It is a typical small village in Iparralde, right next to the main town Sant-Jean-Pied-Port-de-Port. There is nothing special about it, but if you pass by it, you should enjoy it. There is a nice fountain in the centre of the village.
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There is also a camping area where HRP hikers can stay overnight for free. The small restaurant on the road is also recommended.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available in Arce/Artzi?
There are 7 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Arce/Artzi featured in this guide. These routes offer a range of distances and elevation gains, catering to different fitness levels.
What is the general difficulty level of no-traffic road cycling routes in Arce/Artzi?
The no-traffic road cycling routes in Arce/Artzi tend to be on the more challenging side. This guide features 3 moderate routes and 4 difficult routes, often involving significant elevation gains characteristic of Navarre's varied terrain.
Are there any routes suitable for cyclists looking for a moderate challenge?
Yes, there are several moderate routes. For example, the Aurizberri/Espinal – Medieval Bridge of Aoiz loop from Aurizberri covers about 60.9 km with 855 meters of elevation, offering a good balance of distance and climb. Another option is the Medieval Bridge of Aoiz – Urroz loop from Aoiz / Agoitz, which is around 49.5 km with 320 meters of elevation.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these no-traffic road cycling routes?
The routes in Arce/Artzi traverse diverse landscapes typical of Navarre, Northern Spain. You can expect green valleys, hills, and mountainous terrain, often with scenic vistas. The region is known for its varied and picturesque natural features, making for an engaging cycling experience.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Arce/Artzi?
The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Arce/Artzi, with an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 41 ratings. Cyclists often praise the challenging climbs, the beautiful natural scenery, and the opportunity to ride on quiet, traffic-free roads.
Are there any long-distance, challenging no-traffic routes for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. Experienced cyclists looking for a significant challenge can tackle routes like the Heart of the Iraty forest – Burdincurutcheta Pass loop from Garralda, which spans approximately 119.3 km with over 3,190 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Iñarbe Gorge and Itoiz Reservoir Loop from Aoiz, covering about 64.5 km with 1,138 meters of ascent.
Can I find any historical or natural landmarks along the no-traffic cycling routes?
Yes, the region offers several points of interest. You might encounter historical sites like the Roncesvalles Collegiate Church or the Irulegi Castle. Natural features include various mountain passes such as Ibañeta Pass, which often provide stunning views.
Are there any circular no-traffic road cycling routes?
Many of the routes in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For instance, the Iñarbe Gorge and Itoiz Reservoir Loop from Aoiz is a circular route, as is the Aurizberri/Espinal – Medieval Bridge of Aoiz loop from Aurizberri.
What is the best time of year for no-traffic road cycling in Arce/Artzi?
Given Navarre's varied terrain and potential for significant elevation, spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be good, but be prepared for warmer weather, especially on longer climbs. Winter might be challenging due to colder temperatures and potential snow at higher elevations.
Are there any routes that cross into France?
Yes, for a unique international cycling experience, consider the challenging Bizkarreta (SP) - Aldudes (FR) via Sorogain route. This difficult ride covers approximately 46.8 km with 1,250 meters of elevation, taking you across the border into France.
What are some notable viewpoints or summits accessible by road bike in the Arce/Artzi area?
The region offers several high points that provide excellent views. Cyclists can aim for passes like Ibañeta Pass or even some summits such as Tangorri Summit and Mendiaundi Summit, which are often part of or accessible from the road cycling routes, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding Navarre landscape.
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