Girona and Costa Brava Self-Guided Bike Tour

Be sure to pack your camera today, as you ride through quiet roads taking in the panoramic views of the Pyrénées that rise above the countryside. Your destination is Banyoles, Catalonia’s largest freshwater lake that is 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. In the afternoon, take some time to relax by the pool and enjoy a stroll in town. If you haven't seen it yet, we recommend you visit Girona's monumental cathedral. Standing impressively at the top of a long flight of stone steps, it is famous for having the widest Gothic nave in the world. Tonight, an array of Catalan specialties are at your fingertips. You'll be provided with names of our favorites in town.

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 winding road will take you to the hilltop Santuari dels Àngels, the chapel where Salvador Dali got married. If you climb up the steps to the terrace by the church, you’ll be rewarded with fantastic panoramic views! 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 Castell de Dalí, a gift from the Costa Brava-born artist Salvador Dalí to his wife, Gala. The castle was transformed into a museum, showcasing the lives and art of the Dalís. 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 with a dip in the pool before choosing the restaurant in town that best suits your mood.

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 dense forest and then descend to a winding road that follows the extraordinary Costa Brava coastline where views abound! You'll cruise along craggy red rock cliffs, capped with gnarly green trees above the shockingly turquoise water of the Mediterranean sea. This ride is the most challenging of the week but totally worth it! A truly stunning ride revealing, corner after corner, beautiful little coves on fabulous smooth road surfaces, all set against an azure sea. The rollercoaster effect is fantastic on this road that boasts more cyclists than cars! Pause by the sea for a lunch of your choice before riding back to the hotel. This evening, we suggest you savor your final taste of mar y montaña (Catalonia's famed cuisine blending "sea and mountain") choosing from our list of recommended restaurants. Raise a glass and toast to an incredible week of riding, culinary discoveries, and of course, memories to last a lifetime.

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. Your Trek Travel host will meet you at your hotel at 11:00 AM to take your bike and equipment, and say farewell before you depart to conclude your Girona & Costa Brava Self-Guided bike tour.