Gravel Girona

We are saying goodbye to Girona and heading east to meet the Mediterranean coast, riding through endless fields of green grass, small medieval towns and perfect double tracks. As with all our gravel trips, we also make use of some secondary paved and B-roads with the least traffic possible to connect the best gravel segments.

Tip: today’s stage starts with a climb to get out of Girona, followed by mainly flat terrain for the rest of the day, but there is a steep climb at the end to get to L’Escala, so save some power for that last segment.

Embark on a thrilling journey with us as we conquer a cherished stage beloved by our crew. Departing from L’Escala, our adventure unfolds through the Aiguamolls de L’Emporda, a flat delta that sets the stage for the mid-stage destination – Roses, home to the world-renowned El Bulli restaurant. But, we won’t linger for a meal; instead, the real enchantment begins.

Behold one of the region’s best-kept secrets – a flawless gravel trail tracing alongside serene turquoise waters and cliffs. Picture yourself immersed in the “magic” of this hidden gem,  leading you to the picturesque fishing town of Cadaqués. It was here that Salvador Dalí found inspiration for his masterpieces, making it one of Catalonia’s most captivating villages.

Our trail traces the untamed beauty of the west side of Cap de Creus, navigating through gravel “pistas” and serpentine roads devoid of traffic. Picture yourself conquering Port de la Selva, a gateway to a mountain pass that unfolds unparalleled vistas of the sea and the French coastline.

After conquering the ascent, the Mediterranean fades from view, opening the door to a flat expanse where green fields and charming Catalan villages welcome you.

On the 5th day of our cycling journey, we kick off with a leisurely ride through easy terrain, making a quick stop at the captivating Banyoles Lake. As we turn left past a quaint church, get ready for the first climb of the day. Once conquered, we find ourselves in the heart of Catalonia, meandering through the volcanic landscapes surrounding Olot.

Our path leads us through the mesmerizing La Fageda d’en Jordà, a rare biological gem and the southernmost beech forest in Europe – an ideal playground for your gravel bike.

Adding a touch of “humor” to our route, there’s another challenging ascent waiting for us, leading to our hotel perched on cliffs…

Celebrate the final day with a stage that leans more towards exhilarating descents than challenging ascents. While you’ll enjoy the thrill of more downhill stretches, don’t let the excitement overshadow the fact that we’ve still got a couple of steep sections to conquer after the dam. It’s a satisfying ride, offering fantastic views and a chance to discover the charming town of Rupit before smoothly gliding onto a cycling path that guides us back to Girona, completing the full circle to our journey’s starting point.

Before you break out the metaphorical champagne, a gentle reminder: this may be an easier stage, but it’s still a 75km gravel adventure after five days in the saddle. So, perhaps save the red wine for the final night in Girona – a fitting toast to the triumphs, camaraderie, and memories forged on this incredible cycling escapade! Cheers to the journey, the challenges conquered, and the exhilarating ride that brings us full circle to where it all began.

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

Our shuttle will drop you off at Barcelona Airport.