Project Description
GIRONA CLASSIC LOOPS
SELF-GUIDED
Discover the cycling playground of the pro-cyclists living in Girona
TOUR TYPE
Road Cycling
TRIP LENGTH OPTIONS
3 stages | 4 nights
4 stages | 5 nights
AVERAGE DAILY METRICS
93 km | +1,510 m
PRICE
From €590
TOUR DESCRIPTION
Girona is currently the road cycling capital of Europe. Lance Amstrong and George Hincapie where the first to discover the potential of this area due to the diversity in its near geography, well maintained but quiet secondary roads, mild weather, delicious gastronomy, and the beauty and great ambiance in the city.
Nowadays, numerous professional cycling teams, such as Cannondale-Garmin, GreenEdge, Sky, Rabobank and BMC have made Girona their home, and the cycling communities continues to ever grow.
In this tour you not only get to feel like one of the pros, but you also have a chance to spot them or meet them, while staying at a bike-friendly hotel, relaxing in a cycling cafe and riding the iconic mountain ports that surround the wonderful city of Girona.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
- Climb some of the most iconic mountain ports surrounding the city of Girona
- Take pictures in the sites used for the set of Game of Thrones
- Discover the history of Banyoles lake monster
- Taste delicious Spanish Cuisine
- Visit Emporda’s charming medieval villages
- Relax in the hidden beaches and coves between Sant Feliu and Calonge
- See beautiful examples of Romanesque, Gothic, and Modernist architecture
- Have a pastry with pro-cyclist in the cycling cafes in Girona
- Swim in the turquoise waters of the Costa Brava
ACCOMMODATION CATEGORIES
Find the right selection of trusted accommodation
options according to your preferences.
EXPLORER
Budget accommodation without compromising on quality.
COMFORT
Upscale 4* hotels where you can relax and enjoy all the comforts.
LUXURY
The best hotels with premium facilities and top locations.
DAY BY DAY
DESCRIPTION
We are thrilled to welcome you to our beautiful region as you prepare to embark on your unforgettable journey. Your arrival day will mark the beginning of your adventure, and we are here to ensure it’s a seamless and enjoyable experience. As you land in Catalonia, you’ll soon find yourself in the charming city of Girona. Here, you will have the opportunity to settle into your comfortable hotel, your home away from home during your first night with us.
For your convenience, we offer the possibility to book a private transfer from Barcelona to Girona, ensuring a hassle-free journey from the bustling capital to the serene beauty of our region.
In the afternoon, one of our dedicated team members will be there to personally welcome you. They will provide you with a short briefing, offer last-minute instructions for your upcoming trip, and, most importantly, deliver your rental bikes. We want to make sure you are fully prepared and equipped for your adventure.
Depending on your arrival time, you will have the option to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Girona by considering a city walking tour. This guided exploration will lead you through the enchanting streets, historic neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks that make Girona a true gem of Catalonia. Whether you choose to embark on a city tour or decide to explore at your own pace, Girona will offer you a captivating mix of ancient and modern, where every corner will tell a story. Once you’ve had a chance to stretch your legs and soak in the local ambiance, we encourage you to indulge in Catalonia’s culinary delights. Savor traditional dishes at local restaurants, sip on regional wines, and taste the flavors that define our culture.
Your arrival day in Catalonia will be just the beginning of a memorable adventure. We’re excited to have you here, and we look forward to guiding you through the wonders of our region. So, relax, enjoy your stay in Girona, and get ready for an incredible journey through Catalonia’s rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Welcome!
RIDE DETAILS
29 km | +627 m
Depending on your arrival time, we suggest you to take a short ride to els Àngels, the most iconic climb near Girona, before visiting the city.
OVERNIGHT TOWN
Girona
Girona is an incredible city with a magnificent past reflected around the city. You can walk along its narrow winding city streets or a top of the medieval walls that span the eastern border of Old Town.
Another jewel of Girona, is the Cathedral de Santa Maria, where you can take a picture in the steps leading up to it, and if you are a fan of Game of Thrones you will hear the crowd chanting “Shame, shame, shame…”. Not only the cathedral but the streets of the Old Town, also known as the Jewish Quarter or “Call Jueu” in Catalan, were used as the setting for the streets of Braavos.
When visiting Girona you can’t also miss stopping at one of the many bridges that cross the Onyar river, including the Eiffel Bridge, constructed by Gustav Eiffel just before the Tower Eiffel. From the bridges you will be able to see the colourful cases that surround this river.
Museums, churches, historic monuments and bars and cafes, Girona is a city where you won’t get bored.
SUGGESTED ACTIVITIES
Walking guided city tour
DESCRIPTION
For those who crave breathtaking coastal views while riding, this stage offers the perfect adventure. Setting out from Girona, you’ll pass through Cassà de la Selva before beginning your ascent into the Massif de l’Ardenya, also known as the Cadiretes Massif.
The climb to Sant Grau is a rewarding 9-kilometer ascent with a steady 7% gradient, offering stunning panoramas along the way. The descent that follows is nothing short of exhilarating, with sharp turns and sweeping coastal vistas. Once you reach Tossa de Mar, you’ll ride along the famous GI-682 road to Sant Feliu de Guíxols. This scenic stretch between rocky cliffs and the shimmering sea is a highlight, providing unforgettable landscapes around every curve.
From Sant Feliu, continue to Palamós, and then head toward the medieval village of Monells via the peaceful Les Gavarres Natural Area. Conclude your journey with the climb over Els Àngels, capping off a route filled with diverse scenery and Catalonia’s best cycling roads.
RIDE DETAILS
130 km | +2,210 m
112 km* | +1,750 m
*Shorter itinerary available skipping the visit to Tossa de Mar
INCLUDED CLIMBS
Sant Grau: 8.8 km | 3.6% av. gradient
Coll de la Ganga: 7.3 km | 3.8% av. gradient
OVERNIGHT TOWN
Girona
Girona is an incredible city with a magnificent past reflected around the city. You can walk along its narrow winding city streets or a top of the medieval walls that span the eastern border of Old Town.
Another jewel of Girona, is the Cathedral de Santa Maria, where you can take a picture in the steps leading up to it, and if you are a fan of Game of Thrones you will hear the crowd chanting “Shame, shame, shame…”. Not only the cathedral but the streets of the Old Town, also known as the Jewish Quarter or “Call Jueu” in Catalan, were used as the setting for the streets of Braavos.
When visiting Girona you can’t also miss stopping at one of the many bridges that cross the Onyar river, including the Eiffel Bridge, constructed by Gustav Eiffel just before the Tower Eiffel. From the bridges you will be able to see the colourful cases that surround this river.
Museums, churches, historic monuments and bars and cafes, Girona is a city where you won’t get bored.
DESCRIPTION
A very beautiful and demanding bike route: Rocacorba is one of the toughest mountains in Catalonia, with slopes of up to 15% and many sections above 10%. Due to its hardness, it is common to find professional cyclists, even the Garmin team used it as a test bench to analyze the performance of its runners.
The effort on the bike is worth it: once we reach the top, the view is spectacular. At the top we will find the Mare de Déu de Rocacorba sanctuary, on top of a rock with spectacular views of the Cap de Creus massif, Canigó, Collsacabra, Montseny, les Gavarres or the Illes Medes.
On the way you will also pass Banyoles, the capital of triathlons in Catalonia thanks to its incomparable natural setting, surrounded by green hills on the shore of Banyoles lake.
RIDE DETAILS
76 km | +1,516 m
INCLUDED CLIMBS
Rocacorba: 13 km | 6% av. gradient
OVERNIGHT TOWN
Girona
Girona is an incredible city with a magnificent past reflected around the city. You can walk along its narrow winding city streets or a top of the medieval walls that span the eastern border of Old Town.
Another jewel of Girona, is the Cathedral de Santa Maria, where you can take a picture in the steps leading up to it, and if you are a fan of Game of Thrones you will hear the crowd chanting “Shame, shame, shame…”. Not only the cathedral but the streets of the Old Town, also known as the Jewish Quarter or “Call Jueu” in Catalan, were used as the setting for the streets of Braavos.
When visiting Girona you can’t also miss stopping at one of the many bridges that cross the Onyar river, including the Eiffel Bridge, constructed by Gustav Eiffel just before the Tower Eiffel. From the bridges you will be able to see the colourful cases that surround this river.
Museums, churches, historic monuments and bars and cafes, Girona is a city where you won’t get bored.
DESCRIPTION
A classic Girona road cycling route, this loop is often called the “Hincapie Loop” after George Hincapie, one of the first professional cyclists to settle in Girona.
The route traditionally begins at the Stone Bridge in Girona’s Old Quarter, a popular start for both amateur and professional cyclists. Leaving Girona, the first climb is Els Àngels, a well-known ascent that’s moderate in length and difficulty, perfect for warming up. After reaching the summit, you descend into the Empordà, a region dotted with charming medieval towns like Monells, ideal for a coffee break.
Re-energized, the route continues with the climb to Santa Pellaia, favored by pros for its steady gradient. While longer than Els Àngels, it remains accessible and enjoyable. The descent is fast and fun, leading toward Cassà de la Selva. The final stretch back to Girona is flat, running along main roads, completing one of the most iconic cycling routes in the area.
RIDE DETAILS
67 km | +1,026 m
INCLUDED CLIMBS
Els Àngels: 11 km | 3.5% av. gradient
Santa Pellaia: 10 km | 4.2% av. gradient
OVERNIGHT TOWN
Girona
Girona is an incredible city with a magnificent past reflected around the city. You can walk along its narrow winding city streets or a top of the medieval walls that span the eastern border of Old Town.
Another jewel of Girona, is the Cathedral de Santa Maria, where you can take a picture in the steps leading up to it, and if you are a fan of Game of Thrones you will hear the crowd chanting “Shame, shame, shame…”. Not only the cathedral but the streets of the Old Town, also known as the Jewish Quarter or “Call Jueu” in Catalan, were used as the setting for the streets of Braavos.
When visiting Girona you can’t also miss stopping at one of the many bridges that cross the Onyar river, including the Eiffel Bridge, constructed by Gustav Eiffel just before the Tower Eiffel. From the bridges you will be able to see the colourful cases that surround this river.
Museums, churches, historic monuments and bars and cafes, Girona is a city where you won’t get bored.
DESCRIPTION
Today’s stage will let you discover the Medieval Towns of l’Empordà region. Riding mostly through flat roads surrounded by sunflowers fields and apple orchards.
Some towns have only one building remaining from their historic past, such as the church of Santa Maria in La Tallada d’Empordà, or the Castle of Bellcaire in Belcaire d’Empordà. Others have a plethora of buildings which will make you feel like you are in the set of a fairy tale movie.
Torroella de Montgrí, Corçà, Ullastret, Peratallada and Palau Sator, are all beautiful towns where the Old Town holds cobbled streets, arched squares, stone buildings or battlements where you can marvel at how the pass of time has affected some of this buildings. To get back to Girona you will Monells and start your climb in the steeper side of Els Angels.
RIDE DETAILS
98 km | +1,290 m
INCLUDED CLIMBS
Els Àngels (from Madremanya): 10,5 km | 4% av. gradient
OVERNIGHT TOWN
Girona
Girona is an incredible city with a magnificent past reflected around the city. You can walk along its narrow winding city streets or a top of the medieval walls that span the eastern border of Old Town.
Another jewel of Girona, is the Cathedral de Santa Maria, where you can take a picture in the steps leading up to it, and if you are a fan of Game of Thrones you will hear the crowd chanting “Shame, shame, shame…”. Not only the cathedral but the streets of the Old Town, also known as the Jewish Quarter or “Call Jueu” in Catalan, were used as the setting for the streets of Braavos.
When visiting Girona you can’t also miss stopping at one of the many bridges that cross the Onyar river, including the Eiffel Bridge, constructed by Gustav Eiffel just before the Tower Eiffel. From the bridges you will be able to see the colourful cases that surround this river.
Museums, churches, historic monuments and bars and cafes, Girona is a city where you won’t get bored.
DESCRIPTION
As your memorable journey with Catalonia Bike Tours comes to an end, the final day is reserved for your departure. After a last breakfast, you’ll check out and begin your journey home, carrying with you the unforgettable experiences and cherished memories of your cycling adventure. However, before you go, take some time to explore the captivating city center of Girona.
Nestled in the heart of Catalonia, Girona offers a rich blend of history, culture, and vibrant energy. Start with the Girona Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece featuring panoramic city views and the historic Creation Tapestry. Stroll through the Jewish Quarter (El Call), one of Europe’s best-preserved, with its narrow alleys and the fascinating Museum of Jewish History.
The Rambla de la Llibertat is perfect for a leisurely walk or people-watching, lined with cafes and shops where you can sample Catalan cuisine. Cross the Eiffel Bridge over the Onyar River for picturesque views, and step back in time at the 12th-century Arab Baths (Banys Àrabs) with their serene Moorish-inspired architecture.
For more history, visit the Sant Feliu Church or relax at Plaça de la Independència—a lively square with cafes and frequent events. The Cinema Museum will intrigue film lovers, while Girona’s City Walls offer breathtaking views, especially at sunset.
Before you leave, be sure to sample Girona’s vibrant culinary scene, from traditional tapas to sweet treats like crema catalana.
We wish you safe travels and hope to welcome you back someday for more incredible rides through Catalonia’s beautiful landscapes!
PRICING & INCLUSIONS
| LOW SEASON (January to February & November to December) |
||
|---|---|---|
| 3 stages 4 nights |
4 stages 5 nights |
|
| Explorer | from €590 | from €750 |
| Comfort | from €650 | from €810 |
| Luxury | from €750 | from €950 |
| GROUP DISCOUNTS Groups >4 people get 15% off |
||
| MEDIUM SEASON (April to October) |
||
|---|---|---|
| 3 stages 4 nights |
4 stages 5 nights |
|
| Explorer | from €650 | from €810 |
| Comfort | from €730 | from €890 |
| Luxury | from €850 | from €1,010 |
| GROUP DISCOUNTS Groups >4 people get 15% off |
||
| HIGH SEASON (Easter Holidays & Girona Temps de Flors & Sea Otter & Girona Congresses) |
||
|---|---|---|
| 3 stages 4 nights |
4 stages 5 nights |
|
| Explorer | from €990 | from €1,240 |
| Comfort | from €1,190 | from €1,340 |
| Luxury | from €1,330 | from €1,480 |
| GROUP DISCOUNTS Groups >4 people get 15% off |
||
INCLUSIONS
Accommodation in double occupancy room with bed and breakfast regime
Daily luggage transfers
Digital travel guide, tourist advice and turn by turn navigation through mobile app
On call assitance. 9AM-6PM
Tourist advice and off the bike activities booking management
Health Insurance
TESTIMONIALS
RENTAL BIKES
All our rental bikes are completely up to date in terms of maintenance, fully eqquiped with pedals of your choice (Look Keo or Shimano SPD SL), two bottle cages and rear light. They are also delivered with a complete set of tools to help you solve any unforeseen event that may happen during your trip.
CANNONDALE SYNAPSE CARBON 2 RLE Di2
Roll smooth, roll fast, roll confident. Wherever the road takes you, roll with Synapse – our most comfortable, all-around, up-for-anything, pure road machine. It comes equipped with full new Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic shifting and Fulcrum Rapid Wheelset.
CANNONDALE SYNAPSE Di2 RENTAL PRICE:
3 Stages Program: €192
4 Stages Program: €240
CANYON ENDURANCE:ON
This endurance e-road bike delivers a complete performance package, pairing a powerful Fazua motor with a comfortable frame geometry. The Endurace:ON AL 7.0 looks as good as it rides, and eats up the kilometres for fun with maximum battery autonomy up to 90km.
CANYON E:ON RENTAL PRICE:
3 Stages Program: €170
4 Stages Program: €214