Pedaling through Girona, land of Dalí
Pedaling through Girona, land of Dalí
Tour of Girona in five stages
bike type
Highway
Duration
6 days
Profile
Sport
Distance and slope
429 km / +5.080 m
Trip Summary
Cycle through the essence of the Costa Brava
Girona and the Costa Brava are one of the most renowned cycling destinations in Europe, a place where every route combines spectacular roads, Mediterranean landscapes and villages with a unique charm.
On this trip, we'll explore towns like Begur, Calella de Palafrugell, L'Escala, Roses, and Cadaqués , alternating between the coast and the interior to discover some of the most beautiful corners of the Empordà region. There will be time to enjoy each stop, have a coffee, savor the local cuisine, and experience the area beyond the confines of a bicycle.
You can join one of our group tours or, if you prefer to travel at your own pace, request a self-guided and personalized trip for two or more people on the dates that best suit you.
Book your spot or ask us for a customized quote and discover the Costa Brava on two wheels with Bikefriendly.
Date and availability
Join the Bikefriendly Club and get an automatic 10% discount for this trip.
Location
Trip description
Girona and the Costa Brava: the cycling destination that every bike lover should know
To speak of Girona is to speak of one of the great temples of world cycling. For years, professional and amateur cyclists from all over the globe have chosen its roads to train and enjoy riding. It was the international teams who discovered the enormous potential of this region, and since then, Girona has become a benchmark for those seeking to combine sport, spectacular scenery, and an excellent quality of life.
On this journey, we'll explore some of the province's most iconic spots, alternating between inland roads and spectacular routes along the Mediterranean coast. We'll discover the city of Girona , with its impressive historic center, the Força Vella, and one of the best-preserved Jewish quarters in Europe—a place worth getting lost in before or after each stage of the journey.
We'll cycle along the Costa Brava, passing through iconic towns like Platja d'Aro, Begur, Calella de Palafrugell, Roses, and Cadaqués . Winding roads that snake between cliffs, crystal-clear coves, pine forests, and small fishing villages will treat us to some of the most spectacular scenery in the Mediterranean.
Each day will be designed to let you enjoy the pleasure of cycling, alternating mountain passes, quiet roads, and scenic stretches where it will be hard not to stop to take a photograph or simply admire the landscape. And, of course, there will also be time to enjoy the excellent Catalan cuisine , with traditional dishes such as suquet de peix (fish stew), fideuà (noodle paella), fresh fish, or the famous Palamós prawns, accompanied by wines from the Empordà DO (Designation of Origin).
As with all Bikefriendly trips, you'll have the support of a support vehicle with mechanical assistance, solid and liquid refreshments, and the opportunity to change clothes or recover your strength whenever you need to. Our team will take care of all the logistics so you only have to worry about enjoying every kilometer.
If you're looking for a cycling trip through Girona and the Costa Brava that combines the best roads, unforgettable landscapes, great food and the peace of mind of traveling with an agency specializing in cycling trips, this experience is designed for you.
Get ready to discover why Girona is one of the world's most admired cycling destinations and experience the Costa Brava on two wheels like never before.
Itinerary
Arrival and welcome dinner
Arrival and welcome dinner
Arrival of the participants in the charming city of Girona, starting point of our cycling adventure.
Girona, known for its beauty and rich history, offers the perfect setting to begin this journey. Located in the heart of Catalonia, the city preserves a valuable medieval legacy that can be discovered by strolling through its cobbled streets, along its walls, and through its old town. One of its most emblematic sites is the Call Jueu (Jewish Quarter), considered one of the best-preserved Jewish quarters in Europe, a labyrinth of narrow alleyways that transports visitors to another era.
Before dinner, we'll meet at the hotel for a welcome briefing. This will be a chance to get acquainted, learn about the itinerary, and answer any questions you may have about the routes we'll be following over the next few days.
We'll end the day with dinner at the hotel, where we'll tell you all about the experience that awaits you. Starting tomorrow, we'll begin discovering, by bicycle, some of the most spectacular landscapes of Girona and the Costa Brava.
Girona - Girona
Distance
84,5 km
Elevation
+ 830m
Girona - Girona
Stage · Girona, Banyoles and the legendary Rocacorba
We begin our first stage from Girona, one of Europe's most prestigious cycling destinations. A day that combines quiet roads, inland Catalan landscapes, and, for those seeking an extra challenge, the chance to conquer one of the province's most iconic mountain passes.
Our route will take us to Banyoles , known for housing the largest natural lake in Catalonia, a privileged environment that has hosted international competitions and offers one of the most beautiful landscapes of the route.
We'll continue cycling along the quiet roads that connect Santa Maria del Collell , Mieres, and Santa Maria de Camós , passing through a landscape of forests, hills, and small villages that represent the essence of inland Girona. These roads are ideal for enjoying cycling with little traffic and an exceptional natural environment.
Cyclists looking for an extra challenge can tackle the ascent of Rocacorba , one of the most famous mountain passes among professionals training in Girona. Its ramps, reaching gradients of up to 10%, will test the legs, but the spectacular views from the summit more than reward the effort. This addition adds 22 kilometers to the stage and makes for an unforgettable experience.
After the descent, we will return to Girona, completing a route that brings together some of the most appreciated scenery for road cycling enthusiasts and perfectly reflects why Girona has become a benchmark destination for cyclists from all over the world.
Girona - Platja D´Aro
Distance
75 km
Elevation
+ 1.380m
Girona - Platja D´Aro
Stage · From Girona to Platja d'Aro along the Costa Brava
The second stage will take us from Girona to Platja d'Aro, on a route that combines quiet inland roads with one of the most spectacular coastal stretches for road cycling on the Costa Brava.
Leaving Girona, we'll head towards Caldes de Malavella , a town known for its historic thermal waters. We'll cycle through fields, forests, and small farmhouses, enjoying quiet roads that allow for peaceful pedaling and admiring the landscape of inland Girona.
We'll continue towards Llagostera , where the landscape begins to change as we approach the Mediterranean. The terrain becomes more rolling, and the views herald our arrival at the Costa Brava.
We'll climb the Coll de Terra Negra , a steady ascent that will reward us with magnificent panoramic views before beginning the descent to the sea. From here begins one of the most anticipated moments of the trip.
The arrival in Tossa de Mar marks the beginning of one of the most iconic roads on the Costa Brava. Its curves, the cliffs that plunge into the Mediterranean, and the views of small coves with crystal-clear waters make this stretch an unforgettable experience for any cyclist. It is, without a doubt, one of those roads that invites you to look up from the handlebars to enjoy the scenery at every kilometer.
Following the coastline, we will finally arrive at Platja d'Aro , completing a stage that brings together everything that makes Girona one of the most admired cycling destinations in Europe: spectacular roads, accessible mountain passes, Mediterranean landscapes and the pleasure of cycling along the sea.
A demanding, varied and tremendously scenic day that will remain in the memory of any road cycling enthusiast.
Platja D´Aro - Roses
Distance
98,6 km
Elevation
+ 680m
Platja D´Aro - Roses
Stage · From Platja d'Aro to Roses, the heart of the Empordà
This stage will take us from Platja d'Aro to Roses, passing through some of the most representative landscapes of the Empordà region. A day that combines quiet roads, medieval villages, ports overlooking the Mediterranean, and some of the most emblematic spots on the Costa Brava.
We leave Platja d'Aro and head inland along secondary roads until we reach Calella de Palafrugell , one of the most charming towns on the Catalan coast. We continue towards Esclanyà to begin the climb to Begur , a mountain pass that, in addition to offering a pleasant challenge, rewards us with magnificent panoramic views over the Empordà region and the Mediterranean Sea.
From Begur, we'll descend towards the coves of Aiguafreda and Sa Riera , enjoying one of the most spectacular stretches of the day. The intense blue of the sea, the cliffs, and the Mediterranean vegetation will accompany us before we head back inland.
The route continues through fields and along small country roads, passing through the medieval villages of Sant Julià de Boada and Palau-Sator , where time seems to stand still. Cycling through this area is to discover the most authentic essence of the Empordà, with a tranquil landscape that invites you to savor every kilometer.
Further along, we'll reach Torroella de Montgrí , dominated by the silhouette of its castle, one of the region's most iconic landmarks. From here, we'll head back towards the sea, passing through Sant Martí d'Empúries , with its significant Greco-Roman heritage, and Sant Pere Pescador , known for its wide beaches and the natural surroundings of the Bay of Roses.
The stage ends in Roses , where its historic Citadel puts the finishing touch on a day that brings together everything that makes the Empordà unique: ideal roads for cycling, heritage, charming villages and some of the most spectacular landscapes on the Costa Brava.
A varied, demanding and very complete stage, designed to enjoy road cycling while discovering the Mediterranean essence of Girona.
Roses - Roses
Distance
73,9 km
Elevation
+ 1.370m
Roses - Roses
Stage · Cap de Creus, Cadaqués and Sant Pere de Rodes
The fourth stage takes us into one of the most spectacular landscapes on the Costa Brava: the Cap de Creus Natural Park . An unforgettable day where the Mediterranean, the wind, and the rock have shaped a unique territory that offers some of the most beautiful roads for road cycling.
We set off from Roses towards the interior of the park, where the terrain begins to climb steeply with winding roads and viewpoints offering breathtaking views over the sea. As we ascend, the landscape becomes increasingly wild until we reach Cadaqués , one of the most beautiful villages in the Mediterranean and a source of inspiration for Salvador Dalí.
From here we'll continue to the Cap de Creus lighthouse , the easternmost point of the Iberian Peninsula. The road, surrounded by a landscape of rock and sea sculpted over centuries by the Tramuntana wind, makes this climb as demanding as it is spectacular. Reaching the lighthouse is one of those moments every cyclist remembers forever.
After enjoying the descent towards Cadaqués, we will head along a quiet inland road to Port de la Selva , crossing a much more rugged and mountainous environment that offers leisurely cycling, with little traffic and magnificent panoramic views over the natural park.
From Port de la Selva, each cyclist can choose how to approach the end of the stage. Those seeking a more relaxed route will continue towards Llançà , Vilajuïga , and Palau-saverdera , enjoying a more rolling terrain before returning to Roses.
Those looking for an unforgettable challenge can climb to the Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes , one of the most iconic mountain passes in the Alt Empordà region. Its 8-kilometer ascent and over 500 meters of elevation gain lead to one of Catalonia's most impressive Romanesque monasteries, offering breathtaking views of Cap de Creus, the Bay of Roses, and the Mediterranean Sea.
A spectacular stage that combines sea, mountains, history, and some of Girona's most iconic roads. An essential route for any cycling enthusiast who wants to discover the wild essence of the Costa Brava.
Roses - Girona
Distance
96,9 km
Elevation
+820m
Roses - Girona
Stage · From Roses to Girona, the grand finale of the trip
Our final stage will take us from Roses to Girona , crossing some of the most iconic landscapes of the Alt Empordà region before returning to the city considered one of the great hubs of European cycling. A day to enjoy the last kilometers of the journey, pedaling amidst nature, history, and peaceful country roads.
We'll leave the coast behind and enter the Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park , one of Catalonia's most valuable natural areas. Its wetlands, lagoons, and wide meadows create a landscape completely different from the previous stages, offering a flat and very pleasant route, accompanied by the sounds of birds and the tranquility of the surroundings.
We'll continue towards Sant Pere Pescador , where the landscape begins to change. Gradually, we'll leave the coast behind and venture inland into the Empordà region, cycling through fields, small villages, and quiet roads that invite you to enjoy a relaxed ride.
The route then takes us through Sant Miquel de Fluvià , Camallera, and Bàscara , towns that retain the most authentic character of the region. Farmhouses, olive groves, vineyards, and gentle hills accompany our journey until we approach Banyoles , where the terrain begins to undulate slightly again before we tackle the final kilometers.
From Banyoles we will head definitively towards Girona , enjoying a favorable profile that will allow us to savor the end of the trip while crossing the agricultural landscape that surrounds the city.
The arrival in Girona will be the perfect ending to this cycling adventure along the Costa Brava and the Empordà. After exploring some of the province's most iconic locations, completing the route in a city so closely linked to cycling is the ideal way to conclude a journey that combines spectacular roads, Mediterranean landscapes, history, and gastronomy.
One last day to enjoy the pleasure of cycling and take away the memory of one of the most complete and admired cycling destinations in Europe.
Advantages of booking your event with BikeFriendly
Culture
The Mediterranean heart of the Costa Brava on two wheels
The Baix and Alt Empordà regions embody the authentic essence of the Mediterranean and are among the best destinations for a cycling trip along the Costa Brava. This area, where the sea, mountains, and history converge, offers a unique cycling experience, traversing quiet roads, country lanes, and some of Girona's most iconic landscapes.
Cycling through the Empordà region, you'll discover perfectly preserved medieval villages like Peratallada, Monells, and Pals, where time seems to have stood still, as well as small fishing ports that retain the authentic character of the Costa Brava. Each route invites you to stop, stroll along cobbled streets, admire the traditional architecture, and enjoy an environment that combines heritage, nature, and the sea.
The Empordà region's identity is also deeply linked to culture and art. The birthplace of Salvador Dalí and an inspiration to numerous artists, writers, and musicians, Empordà exudes a unique personality that is evident in its centuries-old farmhouses, olive groves and vineyards, and the beauty of a landscape shaped over centuries by the coexistence of humankind and nature.
Cycling through the Empordà region also means discovering its excellent cuisine, its wines with the Empordà Designation of Origin, and a way of life where time is savored at a leisurely pace. After each stage, lively squares, terraces with a Mediterranean flair, and a warm hospitality that makes every stop an integral part of the journey await you.
At Bikefriendly, we selected this destination because it has everything that makes a cycling experience unforgettable: spectacular roads and routes, historical heritage, Mediterranean landscapes, excellent cuisine, and a culture that encourages you to pedal slowly and savor every kilometer. It's a trip designed for those who want much more than just to explore a region: they want to truly experience it.
Climate
A privileged climate to enjoy cycling all year round
The Baix and Alt Empordà regions are among the best cycling destinations in Spain thanks to their Mediterranean climate, which allows for cycling routes to be enjoyed practically year-round. The proximity to the sea moderates temperatures, offering mild winters and warm summers made even more pleasant by the breezes of the Costa Brava.
Spring and autumn are the preferred seasons for many cyclists. With temperatures that usually range between 15°C and 25°C, the days are perfect for exploring quiet country roads, discovering medieval villages, cycling through vineyards and olive groves, or tackling the most iconic mountain passes of the Empordà region in ideal conditions.
During the summer, early morning or late afternoon routes allow you to enjoy cycling in milder temperatures and under the spectacular Mediterranean light that characterizes this corner of Girona. Furthermore, the proximity of the sea offers numerous opportunities to cool off after each stage, making every day an experience that is both sporty and relaxing.
The stable climate and infrequent heavy rainfall make the Empordà region a perfect destination for road cycling, gravel biking, and cycle touring. Every ride offers the perfect combination of good weather, spectacular scenery, and an extensive network of routes designed for enjoying the pleasure of cycling any time of year.
Gastronomy
Gastronomy of the Empordà: the taste of the Mediterranean after each stage
A cycling trip through the Baix and Alt Empordà regions is also a gastronomic experience. This area has made the union between the sea and the mountains one of its greatest hallmarks, offering a cuisine renowned for the quality of its products, respect for tradition, and the creativity of its recipes.
After each cycling route, it's time to discover the flavors of the Empordà. From the Mediterranean come authentic delicacies such as Palamós prawns, fish stews, and seafood rice dishes, while the interior contributes locally sourced meats, artisanal sausages, seasonal vegetables, and excellent produce.
The renowned seafood and mountain cuisine is one of the area's greatest gastronomic attractions . Emblematic dishes such as chicken with lobster, cuttlefish with meatballs, or rabbit with langoustines reflect the character of a region where tradition and innovation coexist naturally.
The experience is completed with extra virgin olive oil, the classic bread with tomato and the wines with the Empordà Designation of Origin , made with varieties such as Garnacha and Cariñena, which perfectly accompany each meal and allow you to discover the winemaking richness of the region.
And to put the finishing touch, traditional pastries invite you to enjoy specialties such as crema catalana, recuits de drap or buñuelos, sweets that are part of the gastronomic identity of the territory.
At Bikefriendly, we believe that a great cycling trip doesn't end when you get off your bike. The gastronomy of the Empordà region is part of the experience, making each meal a moment to recharge, share the day's adventures, and continue discovering the essence of one of the most complete cycling destinations on the Costa Brava.
Included services
Accommodations
Accommodations in a shared room. Possibility of choosing an extra single room.
Half pension
Breakfast and dinner at the hotel.
Briefing
Welcome briefing to explain the trip and answer questions.
Route itinerary
Tracks of the stages, so you can load them on your GPS device or App that you normally use.
Support vehicle
Support vehicle with mechanical service, possibility of changing clothes or getting into the vehicle during the route.
Refreshments en route
Solid and liquid supplies during the routes.
Shower after finishing
On the last day you can shower before returning home.
Luggage transfer
Luggage transfer between accommodations.
Not included
Not included
Any service not detailed in the Included Services section.
Arrival at the meeting point and return home
Arrival at the meeting point at the hotel in Girona and return home at the end of the trip again in Girona.
Beverages
All drinks for lunch and dinner.
Tourist tax
Tourist tax that each client must pay directly at each hotel.
Additional to hire
Supplement for single occupancy room
If you prefer to sleep alone in the room, hire the supplement.
Assistance and cancellation insurance
If you think something unforeseen may arise, you can take out cancellation or travel assistance insurance.
Bike rental
If you need a rental bike, ask us, we can help you arrange it with a local company.
Non-cycling companion
Your companion will enjoy accommodation and half board.
Extra night at the end of the trip
If you want to stay one more night before returning home, you can hire it.
*See our cancellation policy.
Gallery
REVIEWS
The work being done by Bicycles Without Borders and Bikefriendly is commendable and makes me think there is still hope in the world.
I've seen firsthand that this project is real and not just a gimmick. The idea is truly brilliant, and it's helping many children and adolescents continue their education in a very meaningful way, as it's not a charity, but a means for the local population to develop.
The immersive experience in the country is complete, and traveling around the country by bike helps us feel fully integrated into the environment. In just one week, we've been able to understand and learn a lot about this country and its wonderful people, who are materially poor but spiritually rich.
I take my hat off to the work done by both the guide Sergio and the local team, which included Alpha, my lifelong friend and very professional, as well as Idi, Maurice, and Sidy.
I will definitely recommend this trip.
I recommend it, the routes exceeded my expectations! The hotels were good and the food was very good.
FAQ
I have allergies or intolerances. Can you adapt the menus?
Even though there are refreshment stations... do I have to bring my water and bars?
What will the group's rhythm be?
How are shared rooms?
Where will the support vehicle be?
Do you have any doubt? Ask us!
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