Take yourself to the heart of Catalonia and the vibrant town of Girona, considered by many as the cycling capital of the world. From here you’ll enjoy a seemingly endless assortment of riding options immediately available from the door of your hotel. The rides are a fantastic blend of quiet and hilly inland roads along sunflower fields, stunning coastal scenery along the rugged Costa Brava, challenging climbs, and buzzing descents that take you through undoubtedly some of the most picturesque scenery in the region. Discover this Mediterranean paradise in northeastern Spain at your own pace, with our Self-Guided itinerary that can be enjoyed exactly as you wish.
Learn more about Self-Guided trips and if they're right for you »
See all your cycling options at our Girona Cycling Center»
Wander through Girona’s old town, a captivating maze of cobbled streets filled with museums, galleries, cafés, and bars
Discover the breathtaking Costa Brava, or “Wild Coast,” by bike, with its rugged beauty and sweeping Mediterranean views
Relax and unwind at a thoughtfully chosen hotel nestled in the heart of Girona
Experience the warm hospitality of proud Catalan locals as you greet them with a cheerful “Bon día!”
Savor mar y montaña, Catalonia’s signature cuisine, blending fresh seafood and the bounty of the land
Stone archway and cobbled street in Girona's Old Town
Explore the Old Town of Girona
Take in Girona's medieval charm, from the Força Vella fortress remains to strolls along the Old Quarter's walls dotted with watchtowers, offering sweeping city views.
A very well-conceived trip with fun routes, excellent food, and interesting side tours. We felt Trek was fully behind us whilst enjoying the freedom of self-guidance. And the Trek bikes inspired confidence!
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The entire Trek Travel experience is exceptional. You can trust the organization from start to finish. The riding was fantastic. I'll be back!!
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I have been singing the praises of Trek Travel since I got home. I can't say enough about how great my experience was. The routes and the accommodations were all beyond my expectations.
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Great Ride
The roller coaster effect as you ride along the craggy red rock cliffs of the iconic Costa Brava is a jaw-dropping Mediterranean experience.
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Private
Limited Availability
Where to Arrive
Airport:
Barcelona (BCN)
Pick-up location:
Hotel Gran Ultonia, Girona (2026) or Hotel Casa Cacao (2027), Girona, Spain
Pick-up time:
11:00 AM
Where to Depart
Airport:
Barcelona (BCN)
Drop-off location:
Hotel Gran Ultonia (2026) or Hotel Casa Cacao (2027), Girona, Spain
Drop-off time:
11:00 AM
Additional Arrival Information
Your Trek Travel host will meet you at Hotel Gran Ultonia (Gran Via de Jaume I, 22, 17001 Girona) at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. Depending on the number of guests booked for your departure date, it is possible we will ask you to shift your meeting time by approximately 30 minutes. Please have your riding gear readily accessible to avoid having to unpack your luggage. After a trip overview, you may change into your cycling gear where you will then be fitted to your Trek bike ensuring you will be comfortable for the week. Following a safety talk and a review of the details of the route, head out on a self-guided warm-up ride along the roads of Catalonia.
Please note: In 2027, you will meet your host at the Hotel Casa Cacao (Plaça de Catalunya, 23, 17002 Girona, +34 972 28 28 28). All other travel details remain the same.
We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the trip start, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays.
We recommend flying into Barcelona (BCN) and taking a train to Girona from Barcelona Estacio de Sants. For the most comfortable option, a taxi or ride-share from the airport directly to the train station is easy to arrange from either terminal—Cabify is the recommended app within Barcelona or you can follow signs for taxis and use a regulated city cab. The journey to the city center train station takes 20–30 minutes and costs around 35€. For public transport, local trains depart directly from the station located outside Terminal 2 for Barcelona Estació Sants and cost around €5 one-way. If you arrive at Terminal 1, take the free shuttle bus to Terminal 2. For train information, consult www.renfe.com.
Once at Girona train station, Hotel Gran Ultonia is approximately a 10-minute walk, or taxis are also available for the short ride.
If you will be late for the meeting or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your Trek Travel host. If you cannot reach them, please call our hotel, Hotel Gran Ultonia (+34 972 20 38 50) and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details.
Additional Departure Information
Your Trek Travel host will meet you at the hotel at 11:00 AM to take your bike and equipment and say farewell before your departure. If you wish to take a private shuttle to Barcelona we suggest you contact our local driver. A Trip Consultant can provide you with our recommended local contact information. You can pay with credit card but American Express is not accepted. A private transfer to Barcelona city or Barcelona airport takes about one and a half hours and costs 210€. Please allow adequate connection time for any ongoing travel to accommodate possible traffic delays.
Welcome to Girona! Begin with a beautiful ride over Les Serres and El Mas Llunés
Overview
Welcome to the first day of your Girona and Costa Brava self-guided bike tour! Your Trek Travel host will meet you at the hotel at 11:00 AM. After giving you an overview of the week ahead, your host will make sure you are fitted comfortably to your Trek bike and will share some safety tips. Then you’ll say Adéu! and take to the road for a local favorites’ ride into the hills to the south-west of Girona. Once you are out of the city you will be delighted by the very quiet country roads. After the two short and gradual climbs over Les Serres and El Mas Llunés, you’ll loop back to the hotel in the medieval old town. This evening is yours to enjoy as you wish—explore the cobbled streets of Girona and find a restaurant that best suits your palate, choosing from our list of recommendations!
Hotel
Hotel Gran Ultonia (2026) or Hotel Casa Cacao (2027)
Highlight of the Day
Explore the cobbled streets of Girona
With its medieval walls, narrow winding city streets, one of the best preserved Jewish Quarters in Europe and an array of amazing restaurants and bike-friendly cafés—Girona is a delight to explore.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Girona to Les Serres to Mas Llunes Loop - Approximately 32 mi | 51 km and 1,549 ft | 472 m
Cycle along relaxing inland roads to the charming lakeside town of Banyoles
Overview
Be sure to pack your camera today, as you ride through quiet roads taking in the panoramic views of the Pyrenees that rise above the countryside. Your destination is the lakeside town of Banyoles, a beloved location among locals, especially in the summer. There are a few bars and restaurants next to the lake which are great for a meal or drinks while enjoying some relaxing views. If you feel like testing your climbing legs today, the Rocacorba climb will satisfy your hunger for a challenge! Rocacorba is, hands down, the most famous and challenging climb in Girona, loved by amateur cyclists and pro riders alike. At just over six miles long with an average gradient of 7%, the switchbacks play a vital role in turning it into an iconic climb. After this optional ascent, the ride continues back to Girona along pleasant rural roads. Tonight, an array of Catalan specialties are at your fingertips. You'll be provided with names of our favorites in town.
Hotel
Hotel Gran Ultonia (2026) or Hotel Casa Cacao (2027)
Meals included
Breakfast
Highlight of the Day
The charming lake of Banyoles
Enjoy Catalonia’s largest freshwater lake beloved amongst locals.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Girona to Banyoles to La Mota Loop - Approximately 37 mi | 60 km and 2,833 ft | 863 m
Ride Option2
SHORT OPTION:
Girona to Banyoles Loop - Approximately 30 mi | 48 km and 1,905 ft | 580 m
Ride Option3
AVID OPTION:
Girona to Banyoles to La Mota Loop with Rocacorba - Approximately 53 mi | 85 km and 5,582 ft | 1,701 m
Experience the locals' favorite climbs, Els Àngels, and visit Castell de Dalí
Overview
Today you’ll begin the ride with the locals' favourite climb called Els Àngels, a nearly seven-mile mellow climb with an average gradient of 3.6%, which is the perfect way to warm up your legs! The descent to the beautiful village of Madremanya is a special moment, with wide turns and views over the plains. Here you may choose to loop back to the hotel on a flat road winding through farm fields, riding past the village of Púbol or you may opt for the avid option featuring the Santa Pellaia climb. If you decide to ride past Púbol, don’t miss the opportunity of visiting the extravagant Castell de Dalí, a gift from the Costa Brava-born artist Salvador Dalí to his wife, Gala. Alternatively, if you feel like adding another climb, you will absolutely love the steady and gradual ascent of Santa Pellaia, known as the "Hincapie" climb as it is one that George Hincapie was very regularly using for training during his years as a professional cyclist. Back at the hotel, take some time to relax perhaps before choosing the restaurant in town that best suits your mood.
Hotel
Hotel Gran Ultonia (2026) or Hotel Casa Cacao (2027)
Meals included
Breakfast
Highlight of the Day
Climb Els Ángels and Hincapie
Climb Els Ángels to reach the chapel where Salvador Dali got married. If you're still feeling fresh, take on the ascent of Santa Pellaia, also known as the "Hincapie" climb.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Girona to Els Angels to Púbol Loop - Approximately 33 mi | 53 km and 2,705 ft | 824 m
Ride Option2
SHORT OPTION:
Girona to Madremanya to Els Angels Loop - Approximately 24 mi | 39 km and 2,238 ft | 682 m
Ride Option3
AVID OPTION:
Girona to Els Angels to Santa Pellaia Loop - Approximately 38 mi | 61 km and 3,793 ft | 1,156 m
Enjoy an epic ride along the Costa Brava on the Mediterranean coast!
Overview
Today we have riding options to suit every level. The shorter loop ride to Llagostera will accommodate those wanting a shorter ride on quiet, country lanes through pretty hamlets and dense woodland. The Today’s Ride option will take you over the Gavarres Natural Park, a mountain massif of the Catalan Coastal Range, to enjoy a sweeping descent to the coast. Finally, the avid option will have you climb up to Ermita de Sant Grau d’Ardenya through a forested area, before a winding descent takes you to the extraordinary Costa Brava coastline. A truly stunning ride on fabulously smooth road surfaces reveals, corner after corner, beautiful little coves set against an azure sea. Pause by the sea for a lunch of your choice before riding back to the hotel. This evening, be sure to raise a glass and toast to an incredible time riding, culinary discoveries, and of course, memories to last a lifetime.
Hotel
Hotel Gran Ultonia (2026) or Hotel Casa Cacao (2027)
Meals included
Breakfast
Highlight of the Day
Breathtaking views of the Costa Brava coast
Experience the rollercoaster ride along Costa Brava's coastline, with craggy red cliffs, gnarled green trees, and striking turquoise Mediterranean waters!
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Girona to Llagostera to S’Agaro Loop - Approximately 55 mi | 88 km and 3,175 ft | 967 m
Ride Option2
SHORT OPTION:
Girona to Llagostera Loop - Approximately 28 mi | 45 km and 1,388 ft| 423 m
Ride Option3
AVID OPTION:
Girona to Llagostera to Ermita de Sant Grau to S’Agaro Loop - Approximately 64 mi | 103 km and 5,034 ft | 1,534 m
Bid adéu with a pleasant farewell spin
Overview
Though this morning’s ride is short, it’s a great last spin through the Catalan countryside exploring idyllic country lanes to the west of Girona. It’s amazing how quickly you can get out of town and suddenly be surrounded by quiet, near-empty roads in what feels like the quintessential Spanish countryside. If you prefer, simply linger over a hot cappuccino and enjoy a leisurely morning in town. Meet your Trek Travel host at hotel at 11:00 AM to return your bike and equipment, and say farewell before you depart to conclude your Girona and Costa Brava Self-Guided bike tour.
Meals included
Breakfast
Highlight of the Day
Sunrise ride through the Catalan countryside
There's no better way to say farewell to your Girona and Costa Brava Self-Guided Bike Tour than a sunrise ride on quiet backroads.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Girona to Canet d'Adri Loop - Approximately 18 mi | 29 km and 1,313 ft | 400 m
There are a variety of non-riding options on this trip for riders who want to take the afternoon off or travel companions who want to spend little or no time in the saddle. Non-riders are welcome on a Self-Guided trip if they are staying in the same room with a riding guest. Non-riders will be offered a $500 discount from the trip price. Please contact a trip consultant for details and to book a non-riding companion. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip—please contact one of our Trip Consultants for more information. Except as specified in the itinerary, expenses and transportation to these activities are not included in the trip price. Some non-riding options on this trip are:
On a self-guided tour you need to feel comfortable changing a flat, as this is a common event when cycling. All self-guided trips include Ride With GPS, an app which is like having a personal guide in your pocket! You'll get turn-by-turn directions and navigation along with local recommendations. In the rare case of a bicycle breakdown or mechanical issue beyond a simple repair, your Ride With GPS app will have your full itinerary with detailed contact information with emergency phone numbers to call for assistance. Learn more about our Self-Guided Bike Tours.
In Girona’s Old Town, Hotel Gran Ultonia has welcomed cyclists and travelers since 1962, its rooms a short walk from the color-block houses lining the river. Wind down on the rooftop terrace, where cocktails come with a lit-up view of Girona Cathedral at sunset. Bike-friendly service and a central address make this an easy base for exploring the city and the Costa Brava beyond.
Set in a restored historic building steps from Plaça de Catalunya, this boutique Girona hotel wraps chocolate into every detail. Rooms pair fluted wood, stone sink basins, and linen bedding with chocolates left bedside. Upstairs, string lights and potted orange trees frame a rooftop terrace breakfast crafted by a Michelin-starred chef, with daily tastings in the chocolate atelier below.
New in 2027! This carbon road bike was created for those who want comfort and performance in one ride. A new, lighter frame combined with SRAM AXS 1x wireless electronic shifting keeps climbing quick and easy. Carbon wheels pair with wider, comfortable tires and disc brakes giving you complete confidence. This bike is light, fast, and a pure joy to ride.
Learn more
With Shimano’s Ultegra Di2 12-speed wireless electronic drivetrain, the Domane SL 7 Gen 3 delivers lightning-fast, precise shifts in any conditions. A carbon frame with front and rear IsoSpeed smooths rough roads, while carbon wheels keep the ride quick and efficient. Add in powerful disc brakes, and you’ve got a performance road bike that’s fast, stable, and always fun to ride.
Perfect for riders who want comfort and a boost when they need it. The low-step frame and upright riding position make it simple to hop on and enjoy the ride, while the Bosch motor delivers a natural boost up to 15 or 20 mph (region specific) that flattens hills. This bike is smooth and controlled, so every ride is relaxed and fun.
Learn moreFor the most comfortable ride, we recommend you bring your own saddle. If you prefer, you can bring your own pedals and helmet on the trip and your host will install your gear on the first day during your bike fit.
*Navigation – Bring your own GPS device and mount or your phone
for navigation. Our Self-Guided trips are not equipped with GPS
devices. We do provide universal phone mounts for navigating
using the Ride With GPS app on your phone. Route files arrive a
week early for easy loading.
Your Day. You Decide.
Our self-guided vacations are designed to fit all types of travel styles. Whether you like to spend your time relaxing or on a non-stop adventure, you get to decide what your day looks like. Choose your mileage, itinerary, and experience level and leave the rest to us!
Your Trip Need to Knows:
Barcelona, Spain
The Catalonian capital of Barcelona boasts a beautiful coastline; a great diversity of culture, leisure, and shopping; creative, innovative gastronomy; and an avant-garde spirit. Be sure to check out some of the fantastic art and architecture of Antonio Gaudí, such as Sagrada Familia or Parc Güell. The Gothic quarter is the heart of Barcelona’s old town, with narrow cobblestone streets on which Picasso and Miró lived long ago. Las Ramblas is a long tree-lined shoppers’ paradise that leads to the sea. Be sure not to miss the fascinating Boqueria market for a slice of local life. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre- and post-trip hotel:
Where to Stay
Hotel Arts
Opened in 1994, Hotel Arts Barcelona has a unique location on the seafront in the city’s Olympic Village area. It’s the tallest building in Barcelona, with contemporary interiors and a showcase of a 20th century collection of specially commissioned works of Catalan and Spanish artists. www.hotelartsbarcelona.com
Casa Camper
A 19th century building converted into a cozy 25-room hotel. In the multicultural neighborhood of El Raval, just a few steps from the famous La Boqueria market, Casa Camper is the perfect location to indulge in Barcelona’s vibrant nightlife. You can do this actively by using one of the Casa Camper's bicycles, or by enjoying the spectacular view across the city from the rooftop terrace. www.casacamper.com
Nobu Hotel Barcelona
The stylish, hip, and luxurious hotel luxury hotel is located close to the charming neighbourhood of Eixample giving guests a genuinely Catalan feel of the city. Naturally organic materials blended with refined Japanese nuances craft this urban respite while capturing the vibrant energy and colorful character of Barcelona. www.barcelona.nobuhotels.com
The springtime brings green hills, with pleasant daytime temperatures (70ºF-80ºF / 21ºC-27ºC) and evening temperatures 10-15 degrees cooler. The fall is drier and warmer with daytime temperatures reaching the mid 80s. Girona's northern location means that it can be hit with the odd cold spell or rain shower. Light layers and a waterproof shell are recommended. View our Packing List
To reserve your space on a trip, you can either call us at 866-464-8735 to speak with an expert Trip Consultant or book online any time by clicking the “BOOK THIS TRIP” icon near the upper right of each destination’s overview page.* Once you have submitted your reservation online, a Trip Consultant will contact you within one business day to answer any questions you may have and to confirm space, bike, and room availability on your desired trip. Your booking will be finalized once your no-risk deposit is paid. If you make a reservation more than 90 days prior to the trip, a $750 no risk deposit is due at the time of booking.** If you reserve your trip less than 90 days prior to the departure, the full balance is due at the time of booking. Once your booking is complete you will receive an email confirmation with important information pertaining to your trip.
*Please note that select trips cannot be booked online at this time. For those trips, please call a trip consultant at 866-464-8735.
**Deposit amounts vary for all Race, Cross Country, Special Edition, Ride Camp, and Self-Guided tours. Please confirm deposit amounts for all trips with your Trip Consultant at time of booking.
When a trip is booked, a guest confirmation letter is immediately sent out. One week prior to the trip start, you’ll receive an email containing your trip start meeting location reminder and any last-minute information that you’ll need to know before you go. Once you arrive at your destination, your Trek Travel host will brief you on the day-to-day plan for the trip and give you an overview on the daily route information and detailed maps within the Ride with GPS app. The turn-by-turn directions allow you to ride with complete confidence and independence.
We understand things happen in life and sometimes you have to cancel or change your tour.
Read our Cancellation Policy
Our Trip Consultants are available to assist and can answer your questions. Please call us at 866-464-8735.
Trek Travel recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help safeguard you and your travel investment against the unexpected. We offer a travel protection plan through Arch RoamRight that provides coverage for unforeseen events that could affect your ability to travel with us. Learn more about our Travel Protection
We've collaborated with a specialized travel agency committed to delivering tailored vacation planning, ensuring your entire Trek Travel journey is nothing short of unforgettable. Learn more about our Travel Services.
Your Self-Guided trip price is per person based on two guests sharing a room. If you are a solo traveler or if you want to stay in your own private room while traveling with other people, you will have a Single Supplement Fee added to your trip price at the time of booking.
Didn't find what you were looking for? Check out our General FAQs section. You will find answers to the most common questions that don't necessarily pertain to a specific trip. See Self-Guided FAQs
Want to learn more about our trips? Watch our recorded Guide-Led Virtual Events—just visit our Trek Travel Youtube Channel and search for your trip.
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Our trips are guaranteed to run once we have one confirmed booking on the trip. Click here to view our full guarantee policy.
Trek Travel reserves the right to cancel trips with zero guests, therefore you must book with Trek Travel before making travel arrangements for the trip. We are not responsible for travel arrangements made prior to confirming your Trek Travel Trip. Select trips are not guaranteed.
This trip is currently sold out, but you may be added to the waitlist in the case of availability.
If a date is marked with Limited Availability, there are few spots left to book. We will secure additional rooms from our hotels before confirming your reservation.
Looking to travel with a small group? Ask our trip consultants about private trips and learn more.
Most countries cap pedal-assist at 15 mph (25 km/h). The US, Canada, and New Zealand allow more. Here's where each Trek Travel e-bike tops out.
United States & New Zealand
United States & Canada
All other countries
Speeds shown are pedal-assist cutoffs in accordance with each country's local regulations. Riders can always pedal beyond these speeds — the motor simply stops providing assistance.
If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.
Don’t see exactly what you are looking for or looking for a custom date?
Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735
Trek Travel offers three hotel levels to match your style. Luxury hotels provide elegant, thoughtful touches with exceptional hospitality. Explorer hotels blend modern amenities with local charm in unique settings. Comfort hotels are casual and conveniently located near Trek Travel activities.
Road: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Road: 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).
Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).
Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).
Road: 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).
Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).
Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).
Road: 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).
Gravel: 4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).
Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).
Explore beautiful destinations with a curated blend of guided activities, local cuisine, handpicked accommodations, and itineraries to suit every traveler, from laid-back adventures to luxurious escapes.
Venture off the beaten path to unforgettable places, with fully-supported routes that combine gravel and paved roads in classic Trek Travel style.
Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.
See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.
Step into adventure with carefully designed routes, unparalleled hospitality, and deep-routed local connections.
Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.
Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.
Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself
