Road Cycling Routes near Bilbao
Discover the best road cycling routes near Bilbao in Basque Country, Spain. We've curated 3 road cycling routes within riding distance of Bilbao. The area offers mountainous terrain. Each route includes GPX files, detailed elevation profiles, highlighted climbs, and recommended café stops along the way.
3 routes
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe loop from Bilbao
126.2 km • 1540 m • Hard
This loop connects the city with the heart of Urdaibai, heading inland from downtown Bilbao before returning along the coast. After rolling through quieter interior roads, the route reaches the Urdaibai Natural Reserve, where views begin to open up, especially on the stretch between Gernika and Bermeo that follows the river. A couple of cols add a challenge mid ride, with Jata from Bakio as the most recognizable climb. Along the way, there are easy chances to stop for coffee, food, or pinchos.
Hidden gems and views to Bilbao
75.6 km • 1186 m • Moderate
A local favorite that shows a different side of riding out of the city. The route leaves central Bilbao and heads straight into the hills, with the climb to Larreineta (or la Reineta) as the main feature, marked by a series of tight hairpins. From there, it explores the mountains around the city through forests, quiet secondary roads, and a mix of rural and urban bike paths, creating a small countryside escape without ever going far from Bilbao.
Puerto de Orduña from Bilbao
147.1 km • 1872 m • Hard
This ride to the Puerto de Orduña is a big day out with the hardest part in the first half of the ride. The main event of the route is the climb after which your briefly cross into Castilla y León after which you ride on a somewhat flatter middle section before heading back in the direction of Bilbao.
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Discover where to stay, climbs, routes, bike rentals, cafes, and everything you need to plan your cycling trip in the Basque Country Guide.
