The best cycling routes around Garrotxa

Garrotxa offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 250 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and difficult paths, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.

The terrain in Garrotxa is incredibly diverse, ranging from rugged, rocky valleys in Alta Garrotxa to expansive plains in Lower Garrotxa. You'll find a mix of paved roads and unpaved surfaces, including gravel tracks, making it suitable for various touring and gravel bikes. Many routes traverse the unique volcanic landscape and lush forests.

Yes, Garrotxa has several easy and family-friendly touring cycling routes. A great example is the Vall d'en Bas Loop, an easy 15.9-mile (25.6 km) trail that takes you through the scenic plains of Vall d'en Bas. The region's greenways, like sections of the Ruta del Carrilet, are also ideal for relaxed family rides.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Garrotxa offers numerous difficult routes. One such route is the Mieres, Sant Miquel de Campmajor, and Banyoles Loop, a 21.9-mile (35.3 km) path featuring varied terrain and significant elevation changes. Another demanding option is the Vall del Bac and Llongarriu Loop via Vall de Bianya, which includes nearly 1000 meters of ascent.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Garrotxa are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Vall d'en Bas Loop and the Besalú and Castellfollit de la Roca Loop, which offer convenient ways to explore the region.

Garrotxa is rich in natural beauty. You can cycle past the unique Molí dels Murris Pool or the La Plana Pool, both known for their waterfalls. The region is also home to the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, where you can explore inactive volcanoes like Croscat and Santa Margarida, and the enchanting Fageda d'en Jordà beech forest, which thrives on an ancient lava flow.

Garrotxa is dotted with beautifully preserved medieval villages. You can cycle to places like Castellfollit de la Roca, perched spectacularly on basalt cliffs, or Santa Pau, a charming village surrounded by volcanic landscapes. The town of Besalú, famous for its Romanesque bridge, is also accessible by bike, as seen on the Besalú and Castellfollit de la Roca Loop.

Garrotxa is a great cycling destination year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly recommended. In autumn, the Fageda d'en Jordà beech forest is stunning with vibrant colors. The weather during these seasons is generally mild and pleasant, ideal for exploring the volcanic landscapes and medieval towns.

The touring cycling routes in Garrotxa are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 350 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's unique volcanic scenery, the well-maintained greenways, and the opportunity to combine natural exploration with visits to charming medieval villages.

Yes, many routes specifically traverse the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. The Garrotxa Volcanoes Route is a prime example, allowing you to cycle through areas shaped by ancient lava flows and past volcanic cones like Croscat and Santa Margarida.

Yes, Garrotxa is famous for its greenways, particularly the Ruta del Carrilet. This iconic route follows an old railway line, connecting Olot to Girona through spectacular landscapes. The Carrilet I (Olot - Girona) is a popular 36.2-mile (58.3 km) section of this greenway, offering a smooth and scenic ride.

For those looking for longer rides, Garrotxa offers several extensive routes. The Santa Pau Medieval Village – Pont Vell of Besalú loop from Santa Pau covers over 113 km, while the Cathedral Square of Girona – Santa Pau Medieval Village loop from la Vall d'en Bas is over 111 km, both providing challenging and rewarding experiences.