The best traffic-free bike rides around Ultzama

This guide features 7 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Ultzama. These routes are generally considered challenging due to their length and elevation gain, offering a rewarding experience for experienced riders.

Ultzama's gravel trails traverse a diverse landscape, from the ancient oak forests of Orgi Forest to lush green meadows and traditional 'bordas'. You'll encounter a mix of well-maintained forest paths, gravel roads, and sections of old railway lines like the Plazaola Greenway, providing varied surfaces ideal for gravel biking.

While the routes in this guide are rated as 'difficult' due to their length and elevation, the region offers many paths suitable for families, especially within areas like the Orgi Forest. For specific family-friendly options, consider shorter sections of greenways or local forest tracks that are less demanding.

Many routes pass by significant natural features. You can explore the ancient Orgi Forest, ride along the scenic Plazaola Greenway, or even pass by the Bidasoa Dam and Sluice Gates. The region is also known for its centuries-old oak and beech groves.

The komoot community rates the trails in Ultzama highly, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Riders frequently praise the tranquility of the routes, the stunning natural scenery, and the feeling of immersion in nature, especially on trails through the dense forests and along the quiet greenways.

Yes, several routes in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Santa Cruz Tunnel – Plazaola Greenway loop from Imotz and the Orgi Forest – Camping Izarpe loop from Juslapeña / Txulapain are excellent options for a loop ride.

Ultzama is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions for gravel biking. The mild temperatures and vibrant colors of the forests make for an ideal experience. Summers can be warm, while winters, though scenic, might bring colder temperatures and occasional snow at higher elevations like Belate.

Many starting points for these routes, especially in villages like Imotz, Juslapeña, Larraintzar, Doneztebe, and Beruete, offer public parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details for parking availability at your chosen starting location.

Absolutely! Ultzama is a hub for outdoor activities. Beyond cycling, you can enjoy hiking, mushroom foraging (especially at the Ultzama Mycological Park), bird watching, or horseback riding. The region also boasts charming villages with rich cultural heritage and local gastronomy.

While the trails themselves are traffic-free, many routes pass through or near villages where you can find cafes, restaurants, and traditional 'bordas' offering local cuisine. Planning your route to include stops in towns like Doneztebe or Larraintzar will ensure you have opportunities for refreshments.

For a longer adventure, consider the Plazaola Greenway – Portal de Francia loop from Larraintzar, which spans over 100 kilometers. Another substantial option is the Orgi Forest – Camping Izarpe loop from Juslapeña / Txulapain, offering nearly 70 kilometers of riding.

For broader information about the region and its offerings, you can visit the official tourism website for Navarre, which includes details on gravel cycling in the area: visitnavarra.es.