Costa Brava

Be sure to pack your camera today, as you explore the enchanting countryside, charming villages, and stunning coastline of the Costa Brava. Take in the panoramic views of the Pyrenean mountains that rise above the countryside of the Baix Empordà. Pass by the medieval village of Pals, and stop for an espresso in its narrow cobblestone streets before setting off on an undulating ride to the ancient pueblo of Calella de Palafrugel. This traditional fishing village is perched on a rocky coastline, sprinkled with small coves and oozes old-world charm. Savor lunch overlooking the azure blue Mediterranean Sea, and afterwards, elect to take a stroll on the beach and shuttle back to the hotel or jump back on your bike to wind your way back through green pastures decked with abundant sprays of wildflowers. Tonight, you’ll learn about the history of medieval Peratallada on a private walking tour, before enjoying a dinner at one of the colorful bistros in this beautifully preserved and truly enchanting town.

Your ride today takes you from the plains to the sea through Les Gavarres, a mountain massif of the Catalan Coastal Range. The Gavarres mountains have been inhabited since prehistoric times and are largely protected as a nature reserve, dotted with a few farmhouses and hamlets. Choose to stop on your way to visit the Castell de Dalí, a gift from Costa Brava-born artist Salvador Dalí to his wife, Gala. Before lunch, you'll take a private tour of Finca Bell Lloc, a family-run winery and organic farm where age-old traditions have been handed down through generations to preserve the natural methods used on the farm. Enjoy a lunch that pairs their organic wines with local specialties on the vineyard grounds. To finish, there is a final gentle descent to sea level and your home for the next three nights, the decadent 5-star Hostal de la Gavina. This afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish – maybe with a stroll on the beach, enjoy the hotel’s luxurious spa, or a trip into the beach town of Platja d’Aro which is awash with shopping opportunities before deciding which of the many fantastic restaurants to visit for dinner.

Admire Costa Brava’s dramatic coastline today from the tranquil calm of the Mediterranean Sea! Spend the morning on crystal waters aboard our private sailboat, cruising past secluded rocky coves and powder sand beaches. With a picnic lunch on the boat and plenty of time to relax, enjoy the opportunity to take a dip, maybe go snorkeling or simply lie back and soak in the sun and scenery! The sail boat is always a favorite with our guests, but if you prefer more time in the saddle instead, a riding option to explore further inland is available. There will be plenty of time to take a dip in the infinity pool or schedule a massage before dinner at the hotel’s gourmet restaurant Candlelight. The chef Romain Fornell was the youngest chef to get a Michelin star and prides himself in creating culinary masterpieces using a combination of daring and passion. You'll be sure to sleep soundly tonight after a day of fresh sea air, great food and excellent local wines! Please be aware that the cruise is subject to the changing weather conditions. If the weather is not favorable, there will be a short morning ride or alternate activity in place of the sailboat ride.

This morning the journey is the destination as you ride along quiet winding roads which follow the extraordinary Costa Brava coastline - reminiscent of California’s Big Sur – this road boasts many more cyclists than cars! Pause for a lunch of your choice in the medieval walled town of Tossa de Mar and ride back to the hotel along the same spectacular route, or maybe spend the afternoon exploring the old town and castle or relax on the beach and watch the world go by. This evening, relax and savor authentic Catalan cuisine with a twist as the chef at our favorite Michelin-starred restaurant serves up innovative dishes featuring the finest seasonal, local produce. Raise a glass and toast to an incredible week of riding, culinary treats and newfound friends.

Although this morning’s ride is short, it offers spectacular views of the Gavarres Mountains. The rolling hills take you into ancient farmland, where you can also stop off to explore a mystical grove containing a prehistoric burial site with some of the best, preserved dolmens in Europe. If you prefer, simply linger over a hot cappuccino and enjoy a leisurely morning, soaking in the gorgeous sea views from the breakfast patio. Bid farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at Hostal de la Gavina. You’ll then shuttle 1 hour to the Girona Train Station, arriving at approximately 12:00 PM.