Greenway Section Cretas – Xerta 42km (90% descending 10% flat), Transfer inc.

An In-Depth Look at the Greenway Section Cretas – Xerta Bike Tour

If you’re after a cycling adventure that combines breathtaking scenery with a gentle ride, the Greenway from Cretas to Xerta ticks all the boxes. This 42-kilometer trail, offered by Matarraña Aventura, promises a mostly downhill route through some of Aragón’s most striking landscapes. From panoramic views atop the Matarraña to the lush Ebro Valley, this experience offers more than just pedaling—it’s a mini-escape into nature’s beauty, with a touch of history and local charm.

One of the standout features is how accessible and well-structured this tour is, making it suitable for cyclists with moderate fitness levels. What we particularly love is how the route reveals three distinct landscapes: starting at the heights with views of the Ports of Beceite, crossing forests and tunnels in the natural park, then descending into the fertile Ebro Valley lined with orange groves. It’s a visual journey that makes you appreciate Spain’s diverse terrain without the need for overly strenuous effort.

However, a consideration worth noting is the condition of the bikes. While the route itself is praised for its scenic beauty and ease, some reviews mention that the bikes provided are somewhat aged and in need of maintenance. This might be a minor inconvenience for those accustomed to high-end gear but unlikely to spoil the fun for most.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy a scenic ride, are comfortable cycling for a few hours, and appreciate authentic landscapes. Whether you’re a casual rider or someone looking for a memorable day outdoors, this experience offers wonderful value—especially when considering the included transfer and private setting.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery across three distinct landscapes, from mountain views to lush riverbanks.
• Mostly downhill terrain (90%), making it accessible for moderate cyclists.
• Includes transfer back to Cretas, simplifying logistics.
• Authentic experience through forests, tunnels, bridges, and olive/vineyard fields.
• Excellent for active travelers with moderate fitness levels and a love for nature.
• Potential bike condition issues noted in some reviews, so be prepared.

Exploring the Route in Detail

Starting Point in Cretas

Your adventure kicks off in the charming town of Cretas, where you meet your guide and get fitted with your bicycle. The meeting point, located at Av. del Reino de Aragón, is a convenient hub from which to begin this scenic journey. Here, the staff from Matarraña Aventura are known for their friendly service, ensuring you’re comfortable before setting off.

The bikes might seem a bit vintage according to some reviews, but they are generally sufficient for the route. If you’re a cyclist who prefers top-tier equipment, you might find them a tad outdated, but rest assured, they’re enough for a route that’s designed to be enjoyable rather than technical.

The Ascent to the Matarraña Heights

As you leave Cretas, the route begins climbing gently, offering your first panoramic views of the Ports of Beceite. This section feels like a gentle warm-up, with cultivated fields—olive trees, almonds, and vineyards—stretching out around you. We loved the way this part sets the scene, giving you a taste of the area’s agricultural charm alongside the natural beauty.

Crossing the Natural Park

Soon, you enter the Puertos de Beceite Natural Park, which is the true highlight of the ride. The path meanders through forests, ravines, tunnels, and bridges—each element adding a touch of adventure and intrigue. The tunnels are a fun feature, especially if you’re cycling with a headlamp or good bike lights, as some reviews suggest.

The natural park offers a rich tapestry of landscapes—dense forests, rocky ravines, and occasional glimpses of wildlife. It’s a great spot for photo breaks, and you’ll appreciate how the route mixes power sections with more relaxed moments.

Descending into the Ebro Valley

Once you cross the park entirely, the landscape dramatically shifts. You descend into the Ebro Valley, which is remarkably lush, dotted with orange trees along the riverbanks. The view here is especially vibrant when the orange blossoms are in season, but even at other times, the greenery and river vistas are striking.

This section is perfect for those who enjoy the feeling of gliding downhill, with about 90% of the route being descending or flat terrain, making it accessible for most riders. The gentle decline makes for a relaxed, almost effortless ride—ideal for a fun, scenic day without overexertion.

Ending at Xerta Station

The ride concludes at the station in Xerta, where you’ll find a comfortable spot to relax and reflect on your day. The transfer service included in the package takes you back to Cretas, removing any concerns about navigating back or logistics.

What the Visitors Say

A review from Nacho_M highlights that the activity is “fantastic and of scarce difficulty despite the 42 km.” He praises the “impeccable service” from Matarraña Aventura’s staff, describing them as “attentive and friendly.” The only downside he notes is the state of the bikes, calling them “lamentable” and quite old, but still functional enough for the route.

This insight is useful for potential riders who might be concerned about equipment quality. Most agree that the bikes do the job, but if you’re particular about gear, you might want to prepare for that.

The Practicalities: What to Expect

Duration & Timing

The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, which includes time for stops, photo breaks, and a relaxed pace. The start is flexible—covering a wide window from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM, allowing you to choose a time that suits your schedule. This flexibility is valuable for travelers who want a leisurely morning or prefer an afternoon adventure.

Difficulty & Fitness Level

With 90% descending and only 10% flat, the route is quite manageable for those with moderate physical fitness. The terrain is gentle, but the total distance is still substantial, so a reasonable level of stamina is recommended. The route is not technically difficult but does involve some cycling in tunnels and forest trails.

What to Bring

While the tour provides bikes, it’s wise to bring good lighting for tunnels—especially if your bike isn’t equipped with modern lights—and swimsuits, since you might want to take a dip in the river or enjoy some refreshments along the way. Comfortable cycling attire, water, sunscreen, and a hat are also recommended.

Family & Pet Friendly?

The tour is private, making it suitable for families or small groups. It also welcomes service animals, and there are carts available for pets, making it a good option for travelers with furry friends.

Weather & Cancellation

The experience relies on good weather; if canceled due to rain or poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date is offered. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

For just over $40, this bike ride offers exceptional value considering the scenery, the ease of the route, and the personalized experience. The inclusion of transport simplifies logistics, and the private setting ensures an intimate adventure—no crowded groups here. It’s a fantastic way to connect with nature, enjoy some light exercise, and see parts of Aragón that are often off the typical tourist radar.

On top of that, the route’s storytelling through diverse landscapes makes it ideal for photography, nature lovers, and those looking for a break from their usual sightseeing routine. The fact that most reviews are glowing about the scenery and the friendly service underscores how well this experience delivers on its promises.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This is best suited for travelers who enjoy cycling but prefer a route that doesn’t demand technical skills or intense physical effort. It’s perfect for families or groups with varied fitness levels, thanks to its gentle downhill gradient. Nature lovers will relish the opportunity to see forests, tunnels, and river vistas, all within a manageable day.

While the bikes might not satisfy the most gear-enthusiasts, the overall experience compensates with stunning views and a relaxed pace. It’s also a good pick for those who want a private, tailored experience without the hassle of organizing transport or navigating unfamiliar roads.

Final Thoughts

The Greenway from Cretas to Xerta offers a scenic, accessible, and thoroughly enjoyable cycling experience that balances natural beauty with ease of riding. From panoramic mountain vistas and forest tunnels to riverbank orange groves, it’s a visual feast that can be appreciated even by casual riders. The inclusion of transfer and a private setting adds convenience, making it a practical choice for those wanting a fuss-free adventure.

The minor drawback of aging bikes doesn’t detract significantly from the overall value, especially since most reviews highlight the route’s beauty and the friendly service. For active travelers seeking genuine landscapes and a peaceful day outdoors, this tour hits the sweet spot between scenic charm and relaxed activity.

If you’re looking for a memorable, picture-worthy, and well-organized bike trip that showcases Aragón’s diverse terrains, this experience will likely surpass your expectations. It’s a wonderful way to connect with nature, enjoy some exercise, and discover a side of Spain that’s both authentic and surprisingly accessible.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the transfer back to Cretas is included, making logistics simple and hassle-free.

What is the length of this bike route?
The route covers approximately 42 kilometers, mostly downhill, suitable for cyclists with moderate fitness levels.

Are the bikes in good condition?
Some reviews mention that the bikes are old and in need of maintenance, but they are generally functional for this route.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring good lighting for tunnels, a swimsuit if you want to swim, sun protection, water, and comfortable cycling gear.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s private and can be tailored for small groups or families, and carts are available for pets.

What’s the best time of year to do this?
The tour runs from March 1, 2025, through May 1, 2026, and is available every day during opening hours, so spring and early summer are ideal for good weather.

How physically demanding is the ride?
The route is mostly downhill with some flat sections, making it suitable for those with moderate fitness, but some stamina is required for the full 6-hour duration.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the experience, with full refunds available.

This bike adventure offers an excellent way to discover Aragón’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace, perfect for those who want a mixture of scenic views, gentle exercise, and a touch of local charm.