Distance
39 miles / 62.7km
Elevation Gain
7,655ft / 2,336m
Sant Grau d'Ardenya to Tossa de Mar
Sant Grau d'Ardenya to Tossa de Mar
#20 on our Great Rides list
Costa Brava
Trek Travel’s #20 Greatest Ride In The World. If you ever find yourself in North Eastern Spain, this ride is an absolute must-do.
Location
S'Agaro, Girona, Spain
Surface
Paved Road
Difficulty
Level 3
Traffic
Level 2
A quick 45-minute drive from the quickly growing European cycling hub, Girona, this windy, dramatic, roller coaster of a ride along the iconic Costa Brava between the small beach towns of S’Agaro and Tossa de Mar is a jaw dropping Mediterranean experience.
The extremely well kept road cruises along the coastal cliffs above the shockingly turquoise water where it is not uncommon to see sailboats, dolphins and divers enjoying the warm water will leave you with a sense of wonder while on your ride.
What you need to know
RIDE DETAILS
Traffic on this road is usually fairly mellow but can get tight with all the quick hairpin turns and narrow sections. Make sure to keep your eyes up and look out for larger vehicles that may be taking up most of the road. The 5km climb to Ermita de Sant Grau d’Ardenya takes you 300m above the coastal road for an even more incredible view of the sea. 1378m total elevation gain, which may seem like a lot in such a short distance but, you won’t feel it as much as you think due to the undulating flow of the ride.
WEATHER
The wind can be absolutely vicious on this ride during the winter and spring months due to what the Spaniards call “tramontana”, meaning “from the mountains,” this wind comes straight from the Pyrenees ready to blow you off your bike. It is recommended to leave the areo, tri bikes and deep dish wheels at home unless you find a thrill in getting tossed around.
FUEL
While it feels fairly remote out here, you will never be far more than 15k from water refills or a huge plate of Paella. There are loads of restaurants and refueling options, shops and a 14th century fort to explore in Tossa de Mar.
While you’re in town
The closest large city, Girona, has an abundance of bike shops. We have our European headquarters in Girona, Trek Travel Cycling Center – Girona, for last minute gear needs or a bike rental.
For those with a taste for the finer things in life, stay at the Hostal de La Gavina in S’Agaro. This luxurious and historical castel-esque hotel is beautifully decorated with antiques while also maintaining a massive spa/ pool area, several dining options including a 5 course candlelight dinner by Michelin star chef, Romain Fornell and the most extensive breakfast buffet I’ve ever seen. The hotel also holds the accolade of being the only 5 star grand lux hotel in Catalonia.
Ready for this ride?
Book early and save. We reward our guests with lower pricing and more dates to choose from the earlier you book. Rest assured, once you book, your price is guaranteed.