Barcelona to Girona Cycling Holidays

Welcome to Barcelona, a city where the vibrant culture, architectural marvels, and Mediterranean breezes converge to create a backdrop for an unforgettable cycling journey. As you settle in, the anticipation of the adventures ahead mingles with the lively atmosphere of this cosmopolitan city. Take a moment to soak in the sights and sounds, from the Gothic Quarter’s narrow streets to the modernist wonders of Gaudí. 

Your journey starts with an ascent into Collserola Natural Park, Barcelona’s largest natural sanctuary, dotted with diverse vegetation such as Aleppo pines and evergreen oaks. Enjoy the panoramic vistas of Barcelona from the summit before your descent towards Sant Cugat del Vallès and onward through Cerdanyola, navigating the undulating terrain of villages that fringe Barcelona.

Your destination, Caldes de Montbui, awaits a tranquil retreat famed for its therapeutic hot springs. Located at the foothills of the Farrel mountain and within the lush Riera de Caldes valley, it provides a serene setting to relax and rejuvenate at the day’s end.

Embark on a captivating loop ride that takes you through the picturesque hills and valleys surrounding Caldes de Montbui. Today’s journey unfolds on serene secondary roads, offering a tranquil cycling experience with minimal to no traffic. The route provides stunning views over the Vallès valley, enhancing the ride with breathtaking natural scenery.

As you pedal through the rolling landscape, you’ll visit a series of enchanting villages, each with its unique charm. St. Llorenc Saval, renowned for offering the area’s best seafood, presents an enticing option for a mid-ride break. Continue through Gallifa, a quaint village that captures the essence of rural Catalonia, and Sant Feliu de Codines, before reaching El Farell. Both Sant Feliu de Codines and El Farell are perched at some of the highest points in Vallès, offering exceptional vantage points over the region.

After completing the loop, return to the same hotel in Caldes de Montbui, where a restful evening awaits. This day allows you to fully immerse yourself in the local landscape and culture, returning with memories of the Vallès Valley’s panoramic beauty and its welcoming villages.

Today’s route escorts you through the enchanting forests of Sant Miquel and Centelles, guiding you towards the Vic Valley. As you cycle along the rolling hills of “La Plana de Vic,” the landscape unfurls with pastoral beauty and serene vistas.

A must-visit along today’s journey is the extraordinary medieval abbey of Sant Miquel del Fai, located in Sant Miquel del Fai. This remarkable Romanesque chapel, crafted within a grotto, sits elegantly amidst rocks, surrounded by dense forests, imposing cliffs, and a majestic waterfall that cascades over 100 meters. The abbey’s serene and mystical atmosphere provides a unique glimpse into the region’s spiritual heritage.

Your destination for the evening is the charming town of Vic, nestled on the banks of the Meder River. Vic, set against the backdrop of the expansive Plana de Vic and encircled by verdant hills, offers an authentic slice of small-town Spanish life. 

Embrace the freedom of a leisurely start to your day with a loop ride from your base in Vic. This ride ventures into the tranquil roads of the Llucanes, where you can truly unwind and relish the journey amidst gently rolling hills. The scenic route takes you past traditional farming houses set against large expanses of forest, offering a serene backdrop to your cycling experience.

As you pedal through this picturesque region, the simplicity and beauty of the landscape invite a sense of calm and appreciation for the area’s natural and rural charm. Today’s ride is an opportunity to further explore the Vic region at your own pace, discovering hidden gems and soaking in the peaceful ambience of the Catalan countryside.

Today’s journey leads you from Vic to the renowned city of Girona, through landscapes that captivate cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Your route takes you to Sant Hilari Sacalm, celebrated for its abundance of hot springs and medicinal waters. The surrounding scenery, with its caves, mountains, and valleys, is simply breathtaking.

If time allows, a visit to the town’s 10th-century chapel, showcasing Gothic and Romanesque architecture, is highly recommended. As you continue, the ride traverses the Natural Area of Les Guilleries-Savassona. Spanning over 9,000 hectares, this natural reserve is a testament to the region’s ecological diversity, home to a wide array of flora and fauna. This segment of your ride offers a moment to appreciate the tranquil beauty of Catalonia’s countryside.

Your destination, Girona, awaits as a historical and cultural treasure. This city, with its rich past and vibrant present, offers a warm welcome. Enjoy exploring its well-preserved medieval architecture, narrow winding streets, and the famous colourful houses lining the Onyar River.

On your final riding day in the enchanting Costa Brava, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning landscapes of the region one last time. Where medieval villages dot the landscape, each telling its own story of times past.

This loop from Girona takes you through a picturesque circuit, where you’ll encounter the charm of La Bisbal d’Empordà and the quiet beauty of Madremanya, nestled amidst rolling hills and vibrant natural scenery. These historic villages offer a glimpse into the Catalan heritage, with their stone architecture and timeless ambience.

Riding through these areas, you’re not just cycling on roads; you’re travelling through history, with each turn revealing more of the region’s past and present. The day promises a blend of physical challenge and cultural exploration, culminating in a fulfilling return to Girona.

As the morning light filters through Girona’s ancient streets, it’s time to bid farewell to the city that has been the start and end point of your cycling adventure. From the serene beauty of Empordà’s medieval villages to the tranquil roads that wound through the Costa Brava, each moment spent on this journey has been a treasure. Safe travels and adiós, until our paths cross once more.