Catalonia by Bike
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A relaxed cycle through the historic region of Catalonia
Catalonia in north eastern Spain has long been known for its colourful past, stunning coastline and rolling countryside. This remarkable landscape is ideally suited to cycle touring, where regular stops at medieval villages, ancient ruins and Mediterranean beaches are an essential part of the day. The pace is relaxed following flat to gently rolling terrain, from the green Catalonian countryside past fields of sunflowers and wheat, forests of pines and even rice fields into an ancient land inhabited by Iberians in pre-Roman times and once besieged by pirates. During the ride stay in three specially selected rural hotels (each with its own unique charm), where you'll enjoy hearty Catalan breakfasts each morning and dine out at any of the excellent local restaurants each evening.
Highlights
- Easy cycling through beautiful and ever changing landscapes
- Inland and coastal cycling past fields, orchards, medieval villages, river banks and beaches
- Renovated historical buildings converted to comfortable rural accommodation
- Delicious regional cuisine and a wide selection of restaurants for dining out
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Flaça, transfer to Corçà
If you are arriving into the train station in Flaça, on the Barcelona - Girona - Figueras line, you will be picked up at the station and transferred to the first night's accommodation. A transfer from Girona airport can also be arranged (additional cost may apply). Overnight stay in Corçà.
Day 2 Cycle through Monells and Madremanya, visit castle at Pubol (18 or 31km)
The first day of cycling in Baix Empordà (Lower Ampurdan) takes you through picturesque landscapes of lovely villages, tiny vegetable gardens and Mediterranean woods. The Medieval historical centres of Monells and Madremanya are especially worth a visit, as is the castle-museum in Pubol which Dalí dedicated to his wife Gala. This cycling route may be a bit tough for a first day, but there is always the option of taking a shortcut. Overnight stay in Corçà. Ascent: 200m or 300m
Day 3 Cycle through woods and rolling landscapes to Peratallada (25km)
Today you begin with a short ascent through wooded terrain. Afterwards, you cycle mainly on the flat through landscapes reminiscent of Tuscany, where small villages sit atop hills. This vast agricultural region was worked long ago by the Iberians, who introduced the cypress tree as a wind-panel to protect the soil against erosion. In the evening, the challenging task of strolling around the village to select one of 13 inviting restaurants for dinner. Overnight stay in Peratallada. Ascent: 150m
Day 4 Cycle to the Costa Brava beaches (25 or 50km)
Today you cycle out to the Costa Brava. Follow quiet country lanes through Pals to Palafrugell, then on to Llafranca to reach Calella, one of the most beautiful fishing villages on this coast. Stop off for a lunch break at a wonderful restaurant on the beach. In the afternoon, visit the lovely botanical gardens in Cap Roig or venture further south through the valley of Aubi, with its well-preserved rural atmosphere. Some local farmhouses still have towers dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries, where villagers once sought refuge against pirate attacks. Overnight stay in Peratallada. Ascent: 150m or 350m
Day 5 Cycle through the Ter River delta and on to coastal beaches (30km)
This relatively gentle cycling route takes you through the green rice-fields of the Ter River delta with its lovely windmills, then onward to the sandy beaches on the Mediterranean Coast. If you prefer to spend the day relaxing, the village of Peratallada is also the perfect spot to enjoy a rest day or a short stroll through the nearby forest. Overnight stay in Peratallada. Ascent: 150m
Day 6 Cycle via Greek and Roman ruins at Empuries to Sant Pere Pescador (38km)
Today you travel northward to the region of Alt Empordà (Upper Ampurdan). Cycle through mixed forests, open rural landscape and endless orchards. On the way, you pass Empuries, an interesting archaeological site with Greek and Roman ruins. Torroella de Montgri, with its Medieval streets and local palaces, makes a good place to pause for lunch. Your day’s journey ends in Sant Pere Pescador, just a few kilometres inland from the blue Mediterranean Sea. Ascent: 170m
Day 7 Salvador Dalí museum, Aiguamolls Park (45 or 51km), return to Sant Pere
This route takes you first to Figueres, the village whose name is synonymous with that of Salvador Dalí. Visit the surrealist painter’s museum and take a pleasant stroll along the Rambla. Just outside the town, you pass a beautiful Augustine monastery then continue on, along the Muga River, to reach the Medieval town of Castello d’Empuries. In the afternoon, you cycle through Aiguamolls de l’Emporda Natural Park, green and refreshing wetlands with an impressive seasonal water bird colony. Overnight stay in Sant Pere. Ascent: 100m or 125m
Day 8 Trip concludes
Your arrangement comes to an end today after breakfast. Transport to the train station in Flaça is included in the program.
Additional Information
Inclusions
- 7 breakfasts - continental breakfasts are served and will often consist of breads, spreads, yoghurt, cheese, tea, coffee & juices.
- 7 nights accommodation in rural hotels on a twinshare basis with private facilities
- Transfer of luggage from hotel to hotel
- Rental of 24 speed bike equipped with panniers and repair kit. Helmets can be reserved - small fee applies.
- Arrival and departure transfers from/to Flaça train station
- 7 day service hotline
- Maps and route descriptions
Group Size Min
Group Size Max
Accommodation Summary
The accommodation is in charming and comfortable rural hotels, housed in traditional or historical buildings. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms.
Equipment Required
Bike helmet (available for rent - small reservation fee applies), wet weather gear, sunscreen, jogging shoes and sun hat. A comprehensive packing list is provided on booking.
What You Carry
As your main luggage will be transferred from hotel to hotel, you need only carry your requirements for the day in the panniers provided. This may include a packed lunch, waterproofs, water bottle and camera.
Check dates and prices
Book this trip with World Expeditions on their site
from
USD$1,120
Why we recommend World Expeditions
- Pioneers in responsible travel.
- No local payments.
- True adventures in every sense.
- Expert guides and support.
- Quality facilities and transport.
Customer care
World Expeditions is a global company with offices in Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and Canada, all staffed with experienced adventure travellers.
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