The Grand Cycling Tour of Girona & Costa Brava

In Girona, there’s always plenty to see and do. The city is known for its well-preserved Jewish quarter, the colorful houses along the river, and the grand Gothic cathedral. You can spend hours wandering through the many narrow streets, staircases, and squares. A walk along the city walls is definitely worth it, offering a beautiful view over the city and even a glimpse of the Pyrenees. Of course, the most famous bridge in Girona, the Pont de les Peixateries Velles, is a must-see. This bridge was designed by Eiffel and indeed resembles the Eiffel Tower.

Tip from Thijs: Besides wandering in the old town, my favorite spot is the ‘Jardins dels Alemanys.’ This hidden green courtyard next to the old city wall is a perfect place to relax and unwind.

On the first day, you’ll explore the inland area of the Llémena Valley with its large old farmhouses. You’ll cycle through fields and farmlands, circling around the small Adri volcano. After that, you’ll head towards forested areas. Today is really a warm-up day.

Route: Girona -> Girona

The route starts southward through relatively flat terrain until you reach Llagostera. Here, you’ll begin the climb up Sant Grau (465m). At the top of the pass, you’ll find the medieval church of ‘Sant Grau d’Ardenya’ and, perhaps more importantly, a lovely restaurant for a bite and a drink. After crossing the pass, a fantastic descent awaits you, offering breathtaking views over the Mediterranean Sea. This coastal road was used in the 2009 Tour de France. You’ll finish the ride on the beach at Sant Pol, just next to the main beach of Sant Feliu.

Route: Girona -> Sant Feliu de Guíxols

The first 20 km take you along Platja d’Aro, Calonge, and Palamós, three coastal tourist towns. After this start, you arrive in Calella de Palafrugell, a charming fishing village with houses right by the beach. Calella is considered one of the most beautiful villages on the Costa Brava. After Calella, you’ll face a short but very steep climb to the Sant Sebastià lighthouse (2 km, 150m+). Then, you’ll climb to Begur, where you can stop for lunch. After lunch, you head towards the Gulf of Pals with its long sandy beach. From there, you ride inland to Pals, a famous medieval village. It’s truly worth spending some time walking through its narrow streets. After passing through more medieval villages, you’ll reach Torroella de Montgrí, just below the castle atop the mountain.

Route: Sant Feliu de Guíxols -> Torroella de Montgrí

Today is an easy ride. You start the day leisurely, heading towards the beaches of Empúries and l’Escala. In Empúries, you’ll have plenty of time to visit the Greek and Roman ruins (dating back to 600 BC). The route ends in Castelló d’Empúries, where you’ll find a beautiful cathedral that reflects the village’s power in ancient times.

Route: Torroella de Montgrí -> Castelló d’Empúries

After a few kilometers, you’ll begin the first climb of the day: towards the center of Cap de Creus (7 km, 280m+). Here, you have the option to take the longer route that passes through Cadaqués—highly recommended. From the center, you descend to Port de la Selva. If you opt for the longer route, this is a great spot for lunch. From the bay, you’ll start a climb of nearly 500 meters in elevation up to the monastery of ‘Sant Pere de Rodes.’ The views over the entire peninsula from here are stunning. This is also the literal high point of the day. Afterward, you’ll descend towards Figueres, quickly leaving Cap de Creus behind. The last part of the ride takes you across the Empordà plain.

If you have time, a visit to the Dalí Museum in Figueres is definitely worth it.

Route: Castelló d’Empúries -> Figueres

On the final day, you’ll ride along quiet backroads through the rolling countryside. Here, pine forests and agricultural fields alternate, offering a peaceful landscape. As the cherry on top, you’ll climb the newly asphalted road to the Santuari dels Àngels. From the panoramic terrace, you’ll enjoy a stunning view over Les Gavarres, the natural park stretching from Girona to the Mediterranean Sea. Afterward, you’ll glide downhill to one of Girona’s many plazas.

Route: Figueres -> Girona

After six days of cycling, you’re probably ready to relax and enjoy some delicious tapas and a drink at one of Girona’s many plazas. Some of the most charming squares include Plaça De Sant Feliu, the large Plaça de la Independència, Plaça del Vi 7, the hidden Plaça Bell-Lloc, or the cozy bar opposite the university at the top of the city: Plaça de Sant Domènec. Here, you can end your journey in style.

Difficulty level 2 for road cycling means that it is manageable for the average cyclist. Generally, the rides are not too challenging. There may be 1 or 2 days where the route is longer and more demanding. Distances range between 50 and 70 kilometers per day, with elevation gains of 200 to 800 meters per day.

Difficulty level 4 for trekking tours is designed for experienced and well-trained cyclists. The rides are longer and may include sections of unpaved terrain (gravel). There may be 1 or 2 days where the route is particularly long and challenging. On average, distances range between 50 and 70 kilometers per day, with elevation gains of 200 to 800 meters per day.

Girona is located in the north of Spain, just across the border from France. Girona has its own airport and is only an hour away from the larger international airport in Barcelona.
It’s also well connected by train.