The best traffic-free bike rides around Sant Martí Vell

There are over 300 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Sant Martí Vell, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. You'll find approximately 40 easy routes, over 110 moderate routes, and more than 150 difficult routes to explore the region's quiet roads and natural beauty.

The terrain around Sant Martí Vell is diverse, ranging from the gentle agroforestry mosaic in flatter areas with dryland crops and olive trees, to the more challenging ascents within the Gavarres Massif. You can expect mostly well-paved surfaces on many routes, especially those connecting medieval villages, though some segments, particularly within the massif, might be unpaved and more demanding. The region features mountains, extensive pine and cork oak forests, and numerous streams.

Yes, Sant Martí Vell offers several family-friendly options for quiet cycling. Routes like the Horts de la Riba del Ter loop from Bordils - Juià are classified as easy, covering around 11 km with minimal elevation gain, making them suitable for families looking for a relaxed ride away from traffic.

Many routes offer access to significant landmarks and stunning viewpoints. The Puig d'en Batet – Puig Alt (Els Àngels) 488m loop, for instance, takes you to the Santuari dels Àngels atop Puig Alt, offering spectacular 360-degree panoramic views across the Girona region. Other highlights include the charming Castell de Palagret and the serene Font de les Núvies.

Absolutely. Many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes around Sant Martí Vell are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Can Pol Café loop from Massís de les Gavarres, which offers a challenging ride through the Gavarres Massif, and the View of Madremanya – Medieval village of Monells loop, which explores picturesque medieval villages.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Sant Martí Vell, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 760 ratings. Reviewers often praise the region's quiet, traffic-free roads, the stunning natural landscapes of the Gavarres Massif, and the charm of its medieval villages. The panoramic views from elevated points like Santuari dels Àngels are also frequently highlighted as a major draw.

Yes, the region is rich in history and offers access to several picturesque medieval villages. Routes like the View of Madremanya – Medieval village of Monells loop can take you through charming settlements such as Monells and Palau-Sator, allowing you to experience their cobbled streets and historical architecture as part of your ride.

Sant Martí Vell is enjoyable for touring cycling for much of the year. Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with comfortable conditions for longer rides. Summer can be warm, but early mornings or late afternoons are still excellent for cycling. Winters are typically mild, making it possible to cycle year-round, though some higher elevation routes might be cooler.

While specific cafes directly on every route may vary, many routes pass through or near villages where you can find places for refreshments. The Can Pol Café loop, for example, suggests a stop at a local cafe. The medieval villages like Sant Martí Vell itself, Monells, and Madremanya, often have charming establishments perfect for a break.

Elevation gains vary significantly depending on the route's difficulty. Easy routes, such as the Horts de la Riba del Ter loop, have minimal climbs, around 50 meters. Moderate routes, like the View of Madremanya – Madremanya loop, might involve around 260-360 meters of ascent. For more challenging rides, such as the Puig d'en Batet – Puig Alt (Els Àngels) 488m loop, you can expect significant climbs, potentially over 1100 meters, as you ascend into the Gavarres Massif.

Yes, the region is rich in natural beauty. The Gavarres Massif, with its extensive pine and cork oak forests and numerous streams, is a prominent feature on many routes. You might also encounter unique natural monuments like the ancient El Surolí Tree or the tranquil Font de les Núvies. The agroforestry mosaic in flatter areas also provides a pleasant natural backdrop with fields of cereals and olive trees.