The best road cycling routes in Sangolqui

Road cycling in Sangolquí offers a varied experience, combining paved roads with traditional Andean paving stones. The routes are characterized by significant elevation changes, providing both ascents and descents through the picturesque Los Chillos Valley.

While many routes in Sangolquí feature notable elevation changes, there are options suitable for those looking for a moderate challenge. For example, the Cisne loop from Playa Chica 2 is a moderate 39 km path, and the Roadbike loop from Capelo is a moderate 33.2 km trail, both winding through the scenic Los Chillos Valley.

The optimal time for road cycling in Sangolquí is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to September. This period offers clearer skies and better visibility of the stunning volcanoes and lush valleys, enhancing the cycling experience.

Yes, Sangolquí offers several challenging routes for experienced road cyclists. The Monjas loop from Entrada a Alcantara is a difficult 73.7 km route with substantial elevation changes, and the Mirador Isco loop from Italimentos Regional Norte is another difficult option spanning 62.1 km with significant climbs.

The region is rich in natural beauty. Cyclists can enjoy views of the stunning Los Chillos Valley, distant volcanoes like Pasochoa and Ilaló Hill, and lush landscapes. The routes often provide panoramic vistas of these natural features.

While not directly on all road cycling routes, the Sangolquí region is known for several beautiful waterfalls, such as Rumibosque, Molinuco, and the Three Waterfalls (Barrio el Loreto). These can be refreshing escapes and are often accessible via short detours or trails from the main cycling areas.

Sangolquí itself boasts cultural attractions. The town's Parque Central features centuries-old houses and a colonial-era stone pool. The vibrant Sangolquí Market is held on Thursdays and Sundays. Additionally, the Ilaló Cross offers a prominent viewpoint and is a notable landmark in the area.

The road cycling routes in Sangolquí are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, the challenging ascents, and the captivating volcano views and lush valleys encountered along the way.

Yes, Parque Metropolitano La Armenia is a notable green space in the vicinity, offering expansive areas with scenic trails and picturesque views. While not exclusively for road cycling, it provides a beautiful natural setting close to the region's routes.

Many of the road cycling routes in Sangolquí are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Monjas loop from Entrada a Alcantara, the Cisne loop from Playa Chica 2, and the Roadbike loop from Capelo.

Road cycling routes in Sangolquí often feature significant elevation changes. For instance, the route from Quito to Sangolquí can involve over 600 meters of ascent and more than 900 meters of descent. Individual routes like the Monjas loop from Entrada a Alcantara include over 1500 meters of climbing and descending.