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

If you’re considering a bike tour that combines beautiful landscapes, gentle downhill riding, and an easygoing pace, the Greenway from Cretas to Xerta might just be your perfect fit. While I haven’t done this exact route myself, plenty of travelers have praised its scenery and flow, making it a tempting option for those looking to enjoy Spain’s Aragón region on two wheels.

What we love about this tour is how accessible it is—90% descending means you get to coast comfortably, soaking in views without exhausting yourself. Plus, the route crossing three distinct landscapes offers a dynamic experience that keeps your eyes busy with olive groves, forests, ravines, and the Ebro Valley’s famous orange trees.

On the flip side, a note of caution: some reviews mention the bicycles’ condition as less than ideal, which could impact your comfort. It’s worth being prepared for that if you’re particular about gear. This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic, moderate rides and want a hassle-free day with a transfer included.

If you’re into nature, a bit of exercise, and stunning vistas, this experience is likely to be a hit. It’s also great for those who want a guided, organized outing without the hassle of planning every detail. Let’s dig into what makes this trip worth considering—and what to keep in mind.

Key Points

• Easy scenic ride with a mostly downhill route, ideal for moderate cyclists.
• Diverse landscapes crossing forests, ravines, cultivated fields, and the Ebro River valley.
• Transfer included, making logistics straightforward and stress-free.
• Affordable price point, offering good value for the quality of experience.
• Comfortable meeting points in Cretas and easy return to the start.
• Potential bicycle condition issues, so manage expectations around bike quality.

An Overview of the Greenway from Cretas to Xerta

This bike tour covers approximately 42 km along one of Spain’s most striking railway Greenways. Starting in the charming town of Cretas, you’ll pedal through lush natural parks, descend through tunnels, cross bridges, and enjoy panoramic views of the Ports of Beceite. The route then finishes at Xerta, by the Ebro River, where the orange trees flourish along the shore.

The trip lasts roughly six hours, including travel time, making it a full but manageable day out. The experience is curated by Matarraña Aventura, a company known for organizing outdoor activities in the region. The fact that it’s a private tour means your group will have a more personalized experience, which many travelers appreciate.

What Makes This Ride Special?

The standout feature here is the scenic diversity. Starting high on the Matarraña, the views are expansive, showing cultivated fields of olives, almonds, and vineyards. As you descend, you enter a lush forested area, complete with tunnels and bridges—some of which are quite photogenic. The highlight for many is crossing from the mountain landscapes into the bright, lively Ebro Valley. The sight of orange trees lining the riverbank creates a vibrant contrast with the earlier greenery.

The downhill theme (90%) is perfect for those who want a relaxed ride without the fatigue of an uphill trek. It’s also a good choice for cyclists with moderate fitness levels, as the route is described as having “scarce difficulty” despite its length. The included transfer back to Cretas helps you avoid the hassle of returning via bike or public transport, adding convenience.

What To Expect During the Tour

Starting at the meeting point in Cretas, you’ll gather with your small group, receive a brief overview, and then hop on your bike to begin your journey. The early part of the ride offers sweeping panoramic views of the Ports of Beceite, with the landscape dotted by olive and vineyard fields, giving you a taste of Aragón’s agricultural beauty.

As you proceed, you’ll encounter forest sections, ravines, tunnels, and bridges—these introduce a bit of adventure and variety. The tunnels are an exciting feature; remember to bring good light to see clearly inside. The bridges offer fantastic vantage points, perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery.

Reaching the natural park area, you’ll be immersed in a dense woodland environment. The trail here is well-suited for those comfortable with moderate exertion. The route’s gentle descent allows you to enjoy the ride leisurely, focusing on the views rather than pedaling hard.

Crossing into the Ebro Valley, the landscape changes again. The vibrant orange groves along the river are a highlight, offering a lovely backdrop for relaxation and photos. The entire ride is designed to be accessible, with most of the terrain flat or downhill, making it suitable for casual cyclists, although a reasonable level of physical fitness is recommended.

The Return

Once you arrive at Xerta Station, the tour concludes, and you’ll be transferred back to Cretas. The seamless logistics make for a stress-free experience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or prefer not to worry about navigating back.

The Bicycle and Equipment

The review from a fellow traveler pointed out that the bikes are in less-than-perfect condition, being somewhat old and poorly maintained. While they are sufficient for this kind of route—since the terrain is gentle—if you’re particular about bike quality or comfort, this might be a small downside. It’s advisable to check your equipment if you have preferences for newer bikes or specific gear.

For those bringing pets, carts are available, indicating the tour’s flexibility for traveling with animals—though this isn’t explicitly a family or children-focused activity, it’s a nice touch for pet owners.

Pricing and Value

Costing around $40.64 per person, this tour is reasonably priced considering the length, scenery, and included transfer. The price covers the guided experience, bike use, and logistics, making it a convenient all-in-one option.

With an average booking window of about 19 days in advance, it’s a popular choice. The free cancellation policy offers peace of mind, allowing you to change plans if needed.

Real Traveler Perspectives

One reviewer noted that despite the shorter route of 42 km, the activity remains manageable and enjoyable. They appreciated the impeccable service and the attentiveness of the staff, which adds value to the experience. The mention of the bicycles being “lamentable” highlights an area to be aware of, but overall satisfaction remains high.

Another traveler described the activity as “fantastic” and gave it high marks for its ease, scenic beauty, and the friendliness of the staff.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This bike ride is ideal for moderate cyclists seeking a scenic day outdoors without demanding physical effort. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy diverse landscapes at a relaxed pace, with the benefits of an organized transfer and guided route. If you love nature and stunning views but aren’t looking for extreme adventure, this could be a highlight of your trip.

While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the route’s gentle descent and manageable length make it accessible for travelers with some cycling experience. However, those with very young children or very limited mobility might find this less suitable.

The Sum Up

The Greenway from Cretas to Xerta offers an inviting blend of beautiful scenery, relaxed riding, and convenient logistics. Its mostly downhill route makes it accessible to a wide range of cyclists who enjoy a good view and a bit of fresh air. The crossing of varied landscapes—mountains, forests, and fertile riverbanks—keeps the journey engaging from start to finish.

The experience is best suited for travelers who value comfort, natural beauty, and a hassle-free day out. The inclusion of transportation, combined with the scenic route, makes it a practical choice for those wanting a memorable outdoor activity without the stress of planning every detail.

While the bike quality might not be top-tier, the overall experience compensates with its stunning vistas and friendly service. For anyone looking to combine a bit of adventure with scenery and ease, this Greenway tour in Aragón is worth considering.

FAQ: Your Questions About the Cretas to Xerta Greenway

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, since the route is mostly downhill and described as having scarce difficulty, it’s suitable for those with some cycling experience but not necessarily experts.

How long does the entire experience last?
The total duration is about six hours, including the ride and transfer, making it a full but comfortable day trip.

Are bikes provided, and what’s their condition?
Yes, bikes are provided by the tour operator, but some reviews mention they are older and not in the best shape. It’s good to be aware if bike comfort is a priority.

Can I bring my pet?
Yes, there are carts available for pets, and service animals are allowed.

What should I bring for the ride?
Bring good lighting for tunnels, water, sun protection, and a swimsuit if you plan to enjoy the river or cool off afterward.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly designed for children, the route’s gentle terrain makes it accessible for older children with cycling experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations are non-refundable.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot online through Viator, usually about 19 days in advance, and receive a mobile ticket for convenience.

If you’re after a scenic, relaxed bike ride with fantastic views and a smooth organization, this Greenway from Cretas to Xerta could be just the thing. It’s a great way to enjoy some of Aragón’s best landscapes without pushing too hard—ideal for a laid-back day in Spain’s beautiful countryside.