Belgian Waffle Ride
Girona Survival Camp

BWR Girona Survival Camp

A unique journey from Girona and into the Pyrenees mountains.

Join us for an extraordinary cycling adventure beyond the usual routes!

 

While Girona is a mecca for road cyclists, the true allure lies beyond the popular paved routes frequented by many pro cyclists. Experience the authentic beauty of this captivating region by going Beyond Tarmac. Discover hidden gems and embrace the charm of Girona and its surrounding Catalan countryside for a cycling adventure that goes off the beaten path.

Overview

Details

Next Departure

September 14th 2025

From

USD $4,395

Duration

7 days / 6 nights

Non-Rider Friendly

No

Rental Bike

USD $550

Ride Program

Total Distance

Total Elevation

Daily Av. Distance

Daily Av. Elevation

Overview

Begin in the old city’s narrow, cobbled streets, where we may start the day with coffee at one of the many trendy cafés. Journey into Garrotxa National Park, home to extinct volcanoes and the stunning climb in the Montseny area. Finally, pedal back to Girona for a night out in the old town.

During your week in Girona, you’ll get to meet coach Mike Sayers, who notes a lifetime of pro racing, and coaching US National and Olympic cycling and triathlon teams in his palmarès. Mike will guide you through various skill drills and activities to complement your experience on and off the bike, and take-home tips that will help you become an even better rider.

Trip Technical Difficulty

1
2
3
Mixed terrain gravel, from perfect double tracks to flowy singletrack. Possibly a few more technical sections, overall what most people would recognise as “classic gravel”.

Ride Surfaces

Grade 1
20%
Grade 2
25%
Grade 3
25%
Grade 4
15%
Grade 5
15%

Bike Setup Recommendations

Recommended Tires

700×40

A minimum 700×40, but feel free to use more rubber for more comfort and grip if your bike has extra tire clearance.

Recommended Gearing

38T × 11-42

We recommend a minimum gear ratio of 0.90 using a 38T chainring × 42 rear cog (or equivalent). Check your gear ratios at www.bikecalc.com/gear_ratios.


Gravel Explained

Read below for a brief description of our gravel definitions. We have classed the surfaces into five categories, from tarmac to boulders, to give an indication of the amount and level of rough stuff on each trip.

Click below to see Cycling Tips’ great explainer video on gravel surfaces.
GRADE 1
Bad roads, cobbles and rough paved surfaces. You’d find this rideable on a standard road bike.
GRADE 2
Well-made, hard-packed dirt roads offering a road-like experience but without the traffic. Some rutting and looseness of stones.
GRADE 3
Reasonably smooth gravel. Discernible small rocks over a hard-packed surface.
GRADE 4
Rough gravel with conditions that may include shale, larger gravel and rocks. Tubeless tyres and big clearance are the most practical choice.
GRADE 5
Borderline MTB terrain, at the rougher end of the spectrum for the capabilities of most gravel bikes.

Cycling helmet, sunglasses and shoes illustration

Itinerary

Day Description Distance Elevation Hotel
01 Welcome to Girona Casa Anamaria
02 Rocacorba on dirt Casa Anamaria
03 Girona city and Els Angels climb Casa Anamaria
04 And now time for Besalú Casa Anamaria
05 Montseny Hotel Balneari Font Vella
06 Sant Hilari Hotel Balneari Font Vella
07 Adeu!
Daily Averages
Itinerary View Itinerary View
Map View Map View
01
02
03
04
05
06
07

Itinerary Detail

Day 1

Distance

Elevation


Welcome to Girona

Welcome to one of the most charming locations on the outskirts of Lake Banyoles. This beautiful spot will serve as our main headquarters for the next several days. From here we will embark on exciting rides throughout the stunning Girona region, exploring its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. Prepare to experience the best that this area has to offer, from picturesque landscapes to hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Day 2

Distance

Elevation


Rocacorba on dirt

For most cyclists, the legendary Rocacorba climb is an out-and- back route, but not for us! We’re here to tackle Rocacorba from its dirt side, which allows us to complete a perfect, stunning, and challenging loop.

It’s going to be tough, but the experience will be priceless, since riding Rocacorba on gravel bikes and gravel roads is considered the hidden gem of the region. This unique path will test our endurance and skills while offering unparalleled views and an unforgettable adventure. Prepare for an extraordinary experience that showcases the true essence of Girona’s rugged beauty.

Afternoon activity: “Training and nutrition tips” with Michael Sayers, National and Olympic Cycling Coach.

Day 3

Distance

Elevation


Girona city and Els Angels climb

A stay in Girona wouldn’t be complete without riding the iconic Els Angels, located right on the outskirts of Girona city. Much like Rocacorba, Els Angels also has a lesser-known climb on dirt paths. Our journey will take us through Girona’s charming Old Town district, where we’ll pause to enjoy a good coffee and refuel. From there, we will ascend to Els Angels, taking the scenic dirt roads that connects the city to the mountain. This ride promises to combine the historic allure of Girona with the natural beauty of its surroundings, offering a truly unique and memorable cycling experience. Get ready to explore the hidden trails and breathtaking views that make this region so special.

Afternoon activity: “Gravel racing tips” with Michael Sayers, National and Olympic Cycling Coach.

Day 4

Distance

Elevation


And now time for Besalú

And now it’s time for Besalú. Potentially the most beautiful medieval town in Girona, its old architecture, including the castle, walls, gates and bridges, is simply stunning. The mountains that surround this picturesque town only add to its charm. This incredibly challenging and scenic loop will definitely show you why countless top pro riders have chosen Girona as their home region. The blend of historic beauty and natural splendor makes this day an unforgettable experience.

Afternoon activity: “Gravel racing gear and packing strategies” with Michael Sayers, National and Olympic Cycling Coach.

Day 5

Distance

Elevation


Montseny

The Girona region is vast, with towering mountains scattered throughout. This stage will take us to one of its prominent mountain areas known as El Montseny. The elevation gain speaks for itself…it’s going to be a challenging ride! However, the effort will be well worth it as our next destination is an incredible spa hotel. Nestled in an area renowned for its pristine waters and lush forests, this spa promises ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation after a demanding day of cycling. Prepare for an exhilarating adventure through the majestic mountains, culminating in a tranquil retreat that perfectly balances effort and reward.

Afternoon activity: “Stretching in cycling” with Michael Sayers, National and Olympic Cycling Coach.

Day 6

Distance

Elevation


Sant Hilari

Our final ride will offer a remarkable glimpse into Sant Hilari’s diverse landscape, featuring smooth descents, top-notch climbs and terrain that is both challenging and playful. Like the entire trip, this ride combines paved and unpaved roads, allowing us to delve deeper into this fantastic region. And remember, there’s no better way to cap off a demanding six-day riding program than by spending some time in the spa. This luxurious retreat will provide the perfect ending to our adventure. You are sure to fall in love with this place, making it a memorable conclusion to an incredible journey.

Afternoon activity: Packing bike and luggage, and farewell.

Day 7

Distance

Elevation


Adeu!

Unfortunately, your trip through Girona and the Catalan countryside has come to an end.

Our shuttle will drop you off at Barcelona Airport.

Map & Profile

Read our Gravel Explainer for a full description of our gravel definitions.

Grade 1
40%
Grade 2
25%
Grade 3
20%
Grade 4
10%
Grade 5
5%

Read our Gravel Explainer for a full description of our gravel definitions.

Grade 1
30%
Grade 2
20%
Grade 3
25%
Grade 4
15%
Grade 5
10%

Read our Gravel Explainer for a full description of our gravel definitions.

Grade 1
35%
Grade 2
20%
Grade 3
10%
Grade 4
20%
Grade 5
15%

Read our Gravel Explainer for a full description of our gravel definitions.

Grade 1
30%
Grade 2
30%
Grade 3
25%
Grade 4
10%
Grade 5
5%

Read our Gravel Explainer for a full description of our gravel definitions.

Grade 1
35%
Grade 2
25%
Grade 3
25%
Grade 4
10%
Grade 5
5%

Read our Gravel Explainer for a full description of our gravel definitions.

Grade 1
50%
Grade 2
20%
Grade 3
10%
Grade 4
10%
Grade 5
10%

Read our Gravel Explainer for a full description of our gravel definitions.

Grade 1
0%
Grade 2
0%
Grade 3
0%
Grade 4
0%
Grade 5
0%

Surface Details

Day 01
Day 02
Day 03
Day 04
Day 05
Day 06

Dates & Prices Illustration

Dates & Prices



Date Booking Status Availability Price / Per Person Single Supplement Non-rider Discount
2025
Sep 14 - 20
Taking Bookings
Places Available
USD $4,395
USD $850
USD $870
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    Trip Hotels

    Casa Anamaria

    Hotel Balneari Font Vella


    What's Included

    What's Included What's Not Included
      Accommodations & Meals arrow
    • 7 days / 6 nights fully accompanied trip
    • All accommodations
    • All breakfasts
    • All dinners
    • Lunch on the 1st day
    • Transportation arrow
    • Pick-up and Drop-Off at Barcelona El Prat Airport
    • All transportation during the trip
    • All luggage & bike box transfers
    • Cycling Support arrow
    • 1 x Ride Leader per 8 guests (approx.)
    • 1 x Support Van & 4WD vehicle
    • Experienced bike mechanic
    • Park Tools Toolkit
    • Daily ride gpx files provided
    • Nutrition during the ride arrow
    • Energy bars, gels and sports drink
    • Variety of snacks and local specialties
    • Bottled water
    • Airfare
    • Travel and personal insurance
    • Additional hotel expenses i.e. phone charges, mini-bar, gratuities
    • Staff gratuities
    What's Included
      Accommodations & Meals arrow
    • 7 days / 6 nights fully accompanied trip
    • All accommodations
    • All breakfasts
    • All dinners
    • Lunch on the 1st day
    • Transportation arrow
    • Pick-up and Drop-Off at Barcelona El Prat Airport
    • All transportation during the trip
    • All luggage & bike box transfers
    • Cycling Support arrow
    • 1 x Ride Leader per 8 guests (approx.)
    • 1 x Support Van & 4WD vehicle
    • Experienced bike mechanic
    • Park Tools Toolkit
    • Daily ride gpx files provided
    • Nutrition during the ride arrow
    • Energy bars, gels and sports drink
    • Variety of snacks and local specialties
    • Bottled water
    What's Not Included
    • Airfare
    • Travel and personal insurance
    • Additional hotel expenses i.e. phone charges, mini-bar, gratuities
    • Staff gratuities

    Travel details - airport departures

    Pick-up/Drop-off Info

    Arrival

    Pickup Location Time

    Barcelona Airport

    9:00am

    OR

    Meliá Hotel Barcelona Aeropuerto

    View website arrow

    9:00am

    Departure

    Drop Off Location Time

    Barcelona Airport

    9:30am


    Rental Bikes

    Specialized Diverge Expert Carbon

    Frame

    Specialized Diverge FACT 9r carbon

    Groupset

    SRAM Eagle

    Weight

    Under 1kg (size 56)

    Wheels

    Roval Terra C

    Chainrings

    40T

    Cassette

    11-50t (12-speed)

    Sizes

    49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61

    USD $550

    View Details


    BWR Girona Survival Camp

    A unique "beyond tarmac" experience in the Catalan countryside around Girona.


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