Great Girona E-Bike Tour 8 Stages

Girona offers a wealth of attractions and activities. Its renowned Jewish old town stands as a testament to history, while the Cathedral showcases impressive Gothic architecture with its vast stone vaulted interiors. Exploring the city walls or tracing the path along the Onyar River rewards you with stunning vistas of the vibrant, colorful houses lining its banks.

Starting your journey from the Cicloturisme office, you’ll trace a cycle path leading southward, guiding you out of the city. This route unfolds along the “El Carrilet” greenway, which passes through Quart, Cassà de la Selva, and Llagostera. Throughout the ride, the Gavarres Massif, a forested mountain range predominantly of oak trees vital for cork production, serves as a scenic backdrop. Moving onward, you’ll ascend towards Col de Sant Grau, setting the stage for an exhilarating descent overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The final stretch of your adventure hugs the coastline, treating you to breathtaking vistas from a lofty 100-meter vantage point above the sea. Your destination is San Feliu de Guíxols, and your hotel, nestled near the charming Sant Pol beach, offers a relaxing conclusion to this remarkable journey.

Today’s journey takes you northward along the coastline, seamlessly blending the coastal road with scenic seafront boulevards. Your route includes a visit to the prominent port town of Palamós. After a few kilometers, you’ll reach the pristine Platja de Castell cove, notable for its untouched beauty and the ancient Iberian settlement situated on its left side. This spot offers an ideal setting for a leisurely picnic and a refreshing swim in the azure waters of the Mediterranean. Later you’ll follow the path of the “Ruta del Tren Petit” greenway. As you continue, you’ll reach the enchanting old fishing village of Calella de Palafurgell, a true gem along the Costa Brava. This is also a great spot to stop to have lunch. After a rest in front of the sea the route goes towards the north, inland to passing through Palafrugell, with its fish, meat and vegetables market. This is a nice place to learn about the product land of this region. You can also visit the Cork Museum. After exiting Palafrugell you will reach the medieval village of Pals, one of the better conserved medieval places. The ride will take you through natural wetlands with extensive rice fields and long sandy beaches. The bike tour ends in Torroella de Montgrí at the foot of the castle Montgri Massif.

This day presents the option of relaxation by the pool or beach, yet an appealing loop ride also beckons. Follow the course of the Daro River, uncovering the allure of small, picturesque medieval villages like Fonolleres. Venturing deeper inland, your path leads to Púbol, where the Castle of Gala Dalí stands as a testament to Salvador Dalí’s surrealism, boasting a captivating decor. Returning towards the coast, you’ll encounter the ruins of an Iberian village near Ullastret, granting you a breathtaking panoramic vista over the expanse. The journey back to Torroella winds through Palau-Sator and Peratallada, two exceptionally charming medieval villages. For a beachside perspective, an alternate route guides you to the coast, allowing you to embrace the beach and explore the coastal village of L’Estartit, rounding off this day of diverse experiences.

The journey unfolds further north, leading you into the captivating Alt Empordà region. As you proceed, the expansive Bay of Roses opens up, featuring inviting sandy beaches that stretch along its coastline. Nestled near the picturesque medieval settlement of Sant Martí de Empúries and overlooking a stunning beach, a visit to the archaeological site of Empúries is a must. Here, Greek and Roman ruins stand as a testament of the classic cultures’ interaction with the Iberian Peninsula. Continuing your route northward, you’ll pass through the protected marshlands of Aiguamolls de l’Empordà, a haven for diverse wildlife. The journey concludes at Castelló d’Empúries, a village adorned with a rich architectural heritage, including a Gothic church, the Count’s palace, an old market building, and a historic Jewish quarter, making it a fitting finale to this captivating expedition.

Today’s itinerary promises a more challenging adventure, leading you to the stunning Cape Creus with its breathtaking landscape. This route entails two extended climbs, making it advisable to carry a battery charger for recharging during your lunch break. Upon conquering the Coll de Perafita ascent, you’ll arrive at Cadaqués, renowned as one of the most charming fishing villages. For those keen on exploration, extending your ride to the Cape will grant you access to the Tudela geological park, revealing the region’s geological wonders in all their splendor. Following your exploration of Cape Creus, your route retraces its steps, leading you back up to Perafita before descending to Port de la Selva. From this point, a challenging ascent awaits, guiding you to the Romanesque monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes. Perched atop a mountain, this remarkable structure is a testament to the region’s history and architectural marvels. Following this visit, a rewarding downhill journey will guide you back to your hotel, offering a fitting conclusion to a day filled with both physical and cultural exploration.

The cycling tour embarks towards Peralada, the heart of the wine Designation of Origin (DO). Here, you can immerse yourself in the world of wine by visiting the winery, exploring the castle, and wandering through the medieval town. Continuing your journey, you’ll pedal through the upper reaches of the vineyard region, passing through Garriguella, Vilamaniscle, and Rabos, where the oldest vineyards stand. A brief stop at the modernist Espolla cooperative cellar is a must. The route then leads to a lengthy downhill ride that culminates in the city of Figueres. Upon arrival, cyclists are in for a treat with a visit to the renowned Theatre-Museum Dalí, an attraction that still ranks among Spain’s most visited tourist sites. This journey offers a perfect blend of wine, history, and artistry.

Leaving behind the surrealism capital, your journey takes you towards the volcanic landscapes of the Pyrenees region. Your will stard heading south, on an ondulated region partially covered by mediterranean forest. Continuing your exploration, you’ll traverse the area around the Banyoles lake before arriving at Santa Pau. This picturesque town is nestled amidst a landscape dotted with small volcanoes, their wooded slopes adding to the natural beauty of the surroundings. Traversing a serene beech forest, your path guides you to the town of Olot. This town not only offers a scenic journey through nature but also invites you to explore its pedestrian-friendly downtown. With its own unique charm and attractions, Olot adds yet another layer of discovery to your cycling adventure through this diverse and captivating region.

The final leg of your journey unfolds as you leave Olot behind and follow the Brugent river valley through the historic train line known as the “Carrilet.” This route, mostly downhill, offers a leisurely ride, creating the perfect opportunity to reflect on all the sights and experiences you’ve encountered along the way. It serves as a serene conclusion to your remarkable adventure. As you pedal towards Girona, the memories of the places you’ve explored and the landscapes you’ve traversed will likely fill your thoughts. Girona, your last stop, provides an ideal setting for the culmination of your journey. Spending your last night in this city will undoubtedly be a fitting and rewarding way to bring your grand adventure to a close you head back home

Departure from Girona after breakfast.