If you love cycling and are looking for the perfect place to get active, the Aiguestortes y Estany de Sant Maurici National Park could be your new favorite destination. Of course, cycling inside the park is not possible everywhere. The routes are strictly regulated and access is limited to only a few main roads. However, the peripheral area and neighborhoods around the park provide incredible biking opportunities, from scenic routes to extreme climbs.
Where Can You Ride?
Inside the park, biking is only allowed on the paved roads leading:
- To St. Maurici Lake (on the east side)
- To the Aiguestortes Plain (on the west side).
These are routes for relaxed walking, ideal for those who want to enjoy nature without serious physical challenges. They will suit even those who don’t have much experience in mountain biking.
But if you are looking for a challenge, it is worth paying attention to the peripheral routes. Here, there are no longer paved roads, and the difficulty level varies from medium to hard. Expect steep climbs, sharp descents, and breathtaking views.
Pedals de Foc
Want to feel the power of the Pyrenees by bike? Then you should try Pedals de Foc, one of the most famous mountain routes around the national park. It is a real multi-day challenge designed for experienced riders who love long distances, steep passes and unforgettable adventures.
This route is organized so that participants don’t have to worry about logistics—there are options to carry luggage, book accommodation, and even eat along the way. It is over 200 kilometers long and passes through villages, forests, and valleys, showcasing the beauty of the region.
What Do You Need to Consider Before Traveling?
If you’re planning a cycling trip through Aiguestortes, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:
- Prepare for difficult terrain – even if the route looks accessible on the map, in the mountains it can be a real challenge.
- Weather conditions are variable – it can be hot in the mountains in the summer, but sudden rains and cold nights are common.
- Follow the rules – bicycling is limited inside the park, and it’s important to respect nature by not straying from authorized routes.
- Prepare your bike – a mountain bike with good shock absorption and reliable brakes is best.
So, is it worth the trip? Totally yes!
While biking trails within the park are limited, its peripheral areas offer unique biking opportunities. If you’re up for a multi-day adventure, Pedals de Foc will test your strength and stamina. And if you just want to ride in a beautiful place and enjoy nature, the roads to Lake Sant Maurici and the Aiguestortes Plain are ideal.
Grab your bike, pack your gear, and let’s go conquer the Pyrenees!