The best gravel rides around Osona

Osona offers a comprehensive network of nearly 160 gravel bike routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 1 easy, 55 moderate, and 103 difficult trails, ensuring options for every rider.

Osona's landscape is incredibly diverse. You'll find everything from the flatter, extensive routes of La Plana de Vic, perfect for easier rides, to the more challenging and rugged terrain of Sau Valley, Les Guilleries, and Collsacabra. Expect a mix of hard-packed and loose gravel, forest paths, river valleys, and significant elevation changes in mountainous areas like Montseny Natural Park.

While many routes in Osona are rated moderate to difficult, the region's diverse terrain means there are flatter sections, particularly in La Plana de Vic, that can be suitable for families or those seeking a less strenuous ride. Look for routes with minimal elevation changes to ensure a comfortable experience for all.

Osona is rich in scenic beauty. You can explore the dramatic cliffs and forests around the Sau Reservoir, known for its partially submerged bell tower. The Montseny Natural Park offers stunning views, especially during autumn and spring. For specific viewpoints, consider routes that pass by Bordoriol Pass or the Salto de la Miñona viewpoint.

Osona is enjoyable for gravel biking throughout much of the year. Early spring (February to April) is particularly picturesque in La Plana de Vic when fields are vibrant with flowering crops. Autumn and spring offer beautiful colors in Montseny Natural Park. The region generally provides a quieter experience with fewer cars, making it pleasant outside of peak summer heat.

The gravel biking routes in Osona are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 70 reviews. Nearly 1900 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the diverse terrain, extensive forests, and the opportunity for both challenging climbs and scenic, flatter rides.

Yes, Osona offers several longer gravel routes for those seeking an extended challenge. For example, the La Trona Viewpoint – La Trona Road loop from Taradell covers approximately 130.8 km, and the Coll del Buc (728 m) – Revell Pass loop from Espinelves is around 84.7 km, both offering significant elevation gains.

Absolutely. Osona is known for its mountain passes and climbs. Routes like the Coll Formic Pass (1,145 m) – Pla de la Calma loop from Parc Natural del Montseny take you through significant elevation, offering rewarding views and challenging ascents. You can also find highlights like Bordoriol Pass and Coll del Buc (728 m).

Many of Osona's gravel routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Viladrau – Viladrau Town Square loop from Masvidal and the challenging Viladrau – Coll de Te Restaurant & Bar loop from Viladrau.

Osona is recognized as a 'Cycling Friendly' destination. This means you can expect accommodations that cater to cyclists, often providing services like bike storage and repair facilities. The region also offers a unique gastronomic experience with high-quality local products, perfect for refueling after your rides.

Yes, while many routes are difficult, there are options for beginners. For instance, the Riera Spring – Romegats Pass loop from Sant Julià de Vilatorta is rated moderate and covers a shorter distance of about 12.6 km, making it a good starting point for those new to gravel biking in the region.

The Sau Valley and Reservoir are iconic parts of Osona, offering stunning scenery. You can find routes that explore this area, such as the View of Sau Reservoir – Sau Dam loop from Sant Julià de Vilatorta, which provides dramatic views of the cliffs and the reservoir itself.