We love to keep up with the photos and videos of your fabulous cycling tour!
Follow us on Instagram at @bikespaintours and on Facebook at BikeSpainTours, and tag us in the posts from your trip.
Don’t forget to join our Strava club, so we can give you kudos for all your amazing bike rides!
Please leave your luggage in the hotel reception each morning (by 9am at the latest) so that it can be transferred to your next hotel. Make sure that your luggage is clearly labelled with the nametag provided.
Your bike fitting is scheduled for Saturday, 25th April at the office of our local partners, CycleTours Catalonia (C. de Sta. Eugènia, 11).
Please note that the bikes and bike equipment are your responsibility.
You can take out an insurance against minor damages with Cycle Tours Catalonia for 5€/day (touring bikes) or 10€/day (road bikes and e-bikes).
If you do not wish to purchase the insurance, Cycle Tours Catalonia will ask for a credit card preauthorisation against damages of 150€/bike (touring bike) or 350€/bike (all other models of bike). This will be released automatically 7 – 14 days after the return of the bikes.
In case of major damage to the bike, you will be asked to pay the difference.
In the event of loss of theft of the bike, you will be required to pay the retail price of the bike.
Call the Bike Spain Tours office on +34 915 590 653, or out of office hours call +34 677 356 586. We will get you where you need to be and get you the help you need.
Please be aware that Spaniards follow a very particular routine in terms of their daily meals, and this is often strictly enforced by restaurant opening hours, especially in small towns!
You can expect restaurants to be open for lunch from approximately 1:30pm – 4pm. Many places will offer a menú del día: a set menu with 2/3 options for each course, usually including a drink, bread and dessert or coffee. Remember that lunch is the main meal of the day in Spain.
Dinnertime in Spain is any time from 8pm onwards. Dinner in Spain is typically a lighter meal.
Thanks to the Mediterranean climate and fertile soil, the foothills of the mountains surrounding the plain are the perfect terrain for growing grapes and olives. The region has been famous for its gastronomy and wine since Classical times, when the Greeks and Romans came for the strategic coastal location, and stayed for the fantastic farming conditions!
Nowadays, the Empordà boasts an impressive number of Michelin Stars, and its very own Protected Denomination of Origin wine region. The vineyards are frequently battered by the tramuntana, a dry wind from the north of Europe. However, this wind is counteracted by the sea breeze from the Mediterranean, which hydrates the grapes, allowing for a slower ripening of the fruit and a more balanced wine.
A very popular breakfast in Catalonia is pan amb tomaquet: toasted bread, rubbed with tomato and topped with olive oil, and sometimes also jamón and other cured meats. Considered by many locals to be the best Catalan invention of all time, pan amb tomàquet is often served in its component parts so that you can put your own personal twist on it!
As you explore the Costa Brava, you’ll have the opportunity to try some of the region’s very best seafood! One traditional option is esqueixada de bacallà, a salad made with shredded sald cod, with red peppers, tomatoes, onions, olives and a good amount of olive oil. Another popular dish is bacallà amb samfaina: salted cod served over a tomato and vegetable sauce similar to ratatouille.
Continuing the seafood theme, make sure you try the Catalan take on Valencian paella: arròs negre. The black colour of this squid and rice dish comes from squid ink, and you’ll traditionally find it served with alioli garlic sauce.
Mar i muntanya (surf & turf) is a cornerstone of Catalan cuisine, and nowhere is this better demonstrated than in mandonguilles amb sípia: meatballs and cuttlefish served with a thick gravy sauce. Another popular variation is pollastre amb llagosta, which is made with roasted chicken and lobster.
Meatlovers are sure to come across botifarra, either as an ingredient or served as a dish in itself. Often made with apple, this Catalan sausage is used to make faves a la Catalana (a stew of beans and meat), or served with a side of haricot beans as botifarra amb mongetes.
Another traditional Catalan meat dish is cargols a la llauna: barbecued snails!
Round off your Catalan gastronomic experience with a delicious crema catalana: the region’s take on creme brulée!
Click here for our packing suggestions for a self-guided bike tour.
Click here for our recommendations for cycling safely and legally in Spain.
Click here for our recommendations on what to do if you experience mechanical issues with your bike during your tour.
Saturday, 25th April: Girona
Arrival Day
Accommodation: Bravissimo Cort Reial 1A and 3A
Hotel services: Washing machine, kitchen
Welcome to Catalonia, and the start of an amazing tour!
9am: Private transfer from Barcelona airport to Girona. Your taxi driver will wait for you in Arrivals (look for signs to the driver waiting area). In case of any issues, call Salvador on (+34) 666 431 148.
Your taxi will drop you off at the offices of our local partners, CycleTours Catalonia, for your bike fitting and welcome briefing. You can leave your luggage at their office while you explore Girona, ahead of checking into your apartments at 4pm. You can leave your bike boxes with them until the end of the tour.
Enjoy some free time exploring the beautiful city of Girona: the colourful houses that line the River Onyar, the views from the medieval city walls and the atmosphere of one of the best-preserved Jewish Quarters in the world.
4pm: Check into your apartments on Carrer Cort Reial, 5. Your apartments are 1A and 3A. Your digital apartment keys will be sent to you via Whatsapp before 4pm; in case of any issues, contact Bravissimo apartments on (+34) 872 22 04 40.
Click here for our Google Maps list of recommendations in Girona.
El Call: Girona is famous for its Jewish Quarter, where the winding cobblestone streets are still very similar to how they were 500 years ago, before the explusion of Spain’s Jewish population in 1492. If you would like to learn more, you can visit the excellent Museum of Jewish History (open 10am – 6pm Tue – Sat, and 10am – 2pm Mon and Sun).
Girona city walls: The current city walls date back to the 14th century, and provide stunning views over Girona and the surrounding countryside, all the way to the snowy peaks of the Pyrenees! You can access the walls from Els Jardins dels Alemanys (just behind the Cathedral), the University of Girona and Jardí de la Infància (near Plaça Catalunya). Don’t miss sunset at Torre del Llamp!
Onyar River walk: One of the most iconic images of Girona is that of the brightly-coloured houses that overlook the Onyar River. Take a walk along the riverbank, and enjoy views of both sides from one of the bridges: Pont de Pedra or Pont de les Peixateries Velles, which was designed by Gustav Eiffel. You can even visit one of the houses: Casa Masó (open for guided tours Tue – Sat), birthplace of Catalan architect Rafael Masó.
Girona Cathedral: One of the “must-sees” of Girona is the spectacular cathedral (open Mon – Sat 10am – 5pm and Sun 12pm – 5pm), which dates back to the 11th century and whose Gothic nave is the widest in the world. The steps in front of the Cathedral are a popular meeting point among locals, and recently featured as a filming location for popular TV series Game of Thrones!
Restaurant Blanc: Traditional Meditarranean fare (open daily 1pm – 3:45pm/8pm – 11pm)
Restaurant Can Marqués: Locally-sourced traditional dishes (open Mon – Wed and Sat 1pm – 4pm and Thu & Fri 1pm – 4pm/8:30pm – 10:30pm)
Restaurant Normal: Popular option by the Michelin star Roca brothers (open Tue – Sun 12:30pm – 3pm/7:30pm – 10pm)
Sunday, 26th April: Vall de Llémena Loop. Girona
Route: 67.3 km/41.8 miles OR 102 km/64 miles
Elevation: +952m/+3125ft OR +1560m/+5118ft
Accommodation: Bravissimo Cort Reial 1A and 3A
Hotel services: Washing machine, kitchen
On the first day of your tour, you will discover the inland countryside of Llémena Valley, a paradise of volcanic landscape, dramatic cliffs and verdant forests, dotted with centuries-old farmhouses.
Leaving Girona, you quickly find yourself immersed in nature as you head towards Sant Medir, home to a small Romanesque hermitage nestled in the forest. The road is quiet, smooth, and shaded by Mediterranean pine trees—ideal for warming up.
As you climb gently towards Montcal, the landscape opens up to rolling hills and green pastures, with the imposing cliffs of the Garrotxa volcanic region appearing on the horizon. This section is peaceful, with little traffic, making it a dream for road cyclists.
After cycling around the base of the small volcano of Adri, you’ll follow the course of the river Canet, admiring the grottos and waterfalls that the river and the volcanic eruptions have sculpted into the landscape over the millennia. There are a few spots to stop for a swim if you need to cool off!
Next, your route takes you alongside the Llémena river, you’ll past oak and beech forests, enjoying the fresh air and serene surroundings towards the medieval town of Llorà.
From here, you’ll cycle into Les Serres, a small, hidden gem with a rural Catalan feel. Expect classic Masias (farmhouses) and vineyards dotting the hillsides. You’ll cycle around the Banya del Boc volcano and up the mountain of Sant Roc to enjoy fabulous views over the valley, before a winding descent through Constantins to the banks of the river Ter and the small town of Bonmatí, where we recommend a coffee stop at Bar Restaurant La Cantonada (open Tue – Sun 8am – 3:30pm).
Crossing the river, you’ll pass through the small town of Anglès, whose Gothic old quarter is one of the oldest and most significant in the region. If you fancy stopping here for lunch, we recommend L’Aliança d’Anglès* for a Michelin Star meal (open Fri – Tue 1pm – 3pm, prior reservation essential), or Ca L’Elisa (open Tue – Sun, 10am – 4pm) for an informal option.
OPTIONAL: Those looking for a challenge can follow the longer route into the forested mountains of Les Guilleries, all the way to the mountaintop town of Sant Hilari Sacalm—a classic training ascent for many local professional cyclists. A thrilling 18 km descent then drops you into Santa Coloma, another iconic ride enjoyed by hundreds of Girona-based riders.
From Anglès, you’ll climb up to the hilltop village of Mas Llunès, before enjoying a winding descent through beautiful countryside to the little town of Aiguaviva and back to Girona.
Bike shops
Anglès: Can Ribas D’Anglès. Tel (+34) 972 420 160. Open Mon – Fri 9am – 1pm/4pm – 7pm, Sat 9am – 1pm
Monday, 27th April: Girona – Calella de Palafrugell
Route: 81.9 km/50.9 mi
Elevation: +1193 m/+3914 ft
Accommodation: Hotel Alga
Hotel services: Restaurant, swimming pool, gym, laundry
Meals included: Breakfast
IMPORTANT: Before you start cycling today, please leave your luggage at the offices of Cycle Tours Catalonia, so that it can be picked up and transferred to your next hotel. On subsequent days, you can leave your luggage with the reception of your hotel.
Leaving Girona, you’ll cruise along smooth, rolling roads towards Fornells de la Selva, passing through farmland and small villages. The route stays relatively flat until you reach Caldes de Malavella, a town famous for its Roman thermal baths and mineral water springs. If you fancy a coffee stop, we recommend La Gata Maula Vermuteria (open Wed-Sun 11am – 3pm).
From Caldes, the road begins to gently climb towards Llagostera, a charming medieval town surrounded by forested hills. The ride through this section is peaceful, with sweeping views of the Gavarres Massif. If you’d like to stop for a bite to eat in Llagostera, Can Panedes (open Mon – Fri 1pm – 3:40pm, Sat& Sun 8:30 am – 11:30am/1pm – 3:40pm) is a local favorite with excellent coffee and pastries. For something heartier, Cal Degollat (open daily 8:30am – 4:30pm) serves traditional Catalan food and is a good spot for refueling before the push to the coast.
After Llagostera, you’ll head towards Veïnat de Sant Llorenç, where the real fun begins—a descent towards the Mediterranean! The highlight of the ride is the incredible GIP-6821 road, a dream stretch of twisting coastal curves that descends towards the Costa Brava, offering spectacular views throughout.
Reaching the lively coastal town of Sant Feliu de Guíxols, you’ll pass a mix of fishing harbors and historic seafronts. The route flattens as you follow the coast through S’Agaró and Platja d’Aro, two bustling beach towns with plenty of cafés.
Next, you’ll pass through the important port town of Palamós, where you can make a stop at the Museo de la Pesca (open Tue – Fri, 10am – 1:30pm/3:30pm – 6pm, Sat 10:30am – 2pm/4pm – 7pm and Sun 10:30am – 2pm), a unique museum which explores the past, present and future of fishing on the Costa Brava. If you’re in town mid-week in the afternoon, you can check out the famous fish auction!
Heading out of Palamós, you’ll take a small inland detour through Mont-ras, passing through vineyards and Mediterranean pine forests. You’ll pass by Palafrugell, a lovely town with a fresh food market (C/Pi i Margall, open Tue – Sun, 8am – 1:30pm) where you can try locally-sourced fish, meat, fruit and vegetables. It’s a great place to discover local produce. You can also visit the Cork Museum (open Tue – Sun 10am – 1pm/4pm – 7pm), formerly one of the largest cork factories in the world and the source of much of the region’s wealth.
The route finishes in the picturesque fishing village of Calella de Palafrugell, considered to be one of the pearls of Costa Brava.
Bike shops
Cassà de la Selva: La Bicycle. (+34) 872072565. Open Mon 5pm-8pm, Tue – Fri 9am–1:30pm/5pm-8pm, Sat 9:30am-1pm
Sant Feliu de Guíxols: Ayat Cycles. (+34) 630 58 51 56. Open Mon – Fri 9:30am–1pm/3:30pm–7pm, Sat 9:30am–1pm
Platja d’Aro: Santgrau Trade & Services. (+34) 696 369 410. Open Mon – Fri 9am–1pm/4pm-8pm, Sat 4pm-8pm
Sant Antoni de Calonge: Tecnibike. (+34) 972 662 951. Open Mon – Sat 9am–1pm/4pm-8pm
Click here for our Google Maps list of recommendations in Calella.
Officially classifed with the “Poble amb encant” seal by the Catalonia Tourism Board, Calella is one of the few places on the Costa Brava that retains its original charm, unspoiled by mass tourism. Spend the afternoon on one of the beaches, or enjoying the beautiful clifftop walks.
A popular option is to follow the Camí de Ronda hiking path from Calella along the cliffs to the nearby seafront town of Llafranc. From here, you can continue up to the historic Far de Sant Sebastià (San Sebastian lighthouse), which boasts fabulous views of the Mediterranean sea and houses an elegant Japanese restaurant, Far Nomo (open daily 1:30pm-5pm/8pm-12am).
Calau: Trendy seafront spot where hot pintxos are served fresh from the kitchen (open daily 1pm – 3pm/7:30pm – 10:30pm).
Margarita: Laidback beachfront option (open 12pm – 4:30pm/7pm – 12am Thu – Sat and Sun/Wed 12pm – 4:30pm).
Alternatively, take a clifftop walk across to Llafranc and enjoy a tasting menu at Michelin Star restaurant Casamar (open Thu – Sun 1:30pm – 3pm/Fri and Sat 8:30pm – 10pm).
Tuesday, 28th April: Calella de Palafrugell – Castelló d’Empuries
Route: 75 km/46.6 miles
Elevation: +669 m/+2195 ft
Accommodation: Hotel Palau Macelli
Hotel services: Restaurant, swimming pool, spa, laundry
Meals included: Breakfast
Please leave your luggage in the hotel reception each morning (around 9am) so that it can be transferred to your next hotel.
Experience one of the Costa Brava’s most varied and rewarding road-cycling routes, combining short, punchy climbs with spectacular viewpoints, medieval villages, and quiet coastal roads.
Starting from Calella, you’ll tackle the short but steep ascent to the Sant Sebastià lighthouse (2 km, +150 m), a favourite local effort rewarded with panoramic views over the coastline. From here, the route climbs again toward Begur before descending to the Gulf of Pals, known for its expansive sandy beach.
Turning inland, you’ll roll into the beautifully preserved medieval village of Pals, the perfect place to take a break and explore the narrow cobbled streets flanked by elegant aristocratic houses. We recommend grabbing a coffee at Antic Casino (open Tue – Sun from 9am), a well-known restaurant set in a historic building.
At San Julián de Boada, you can take an optional detour to Peratallada, one of the region’s most spectacular medieval towns.
A short and pleasant ride through patchwork farmland brings you to Palau-sator, a tiny walled village with an ancient tower and well-preserved medieval charm. If you haven’t had lunch yet, we recommend Restaurant Mas Pou in Palau-Sator (open Tue – Sun 1pm – 3:30pm), a lovely spot housed in a historic farm house with its own museum.
Head northwest along rural lanes towards Ullastret. Here, you can visit the ancient Iberian settlement, a well-preserved archaeological site with a stunning view of the surrounding plains.
From here, you’ll follow quiet local roads toward Gualta, cycling through fertile farmland and many apple orchards growing the region’s star product: “La Pom de Girona”. You’ll cross the Daró River, where you can stop for a photo opportunity at the beautiful Pont Vell de Gualta, a medieval stone bridge surrounded by green meadows and poplar trees.
Your next stop is Torroella de Montgrí, set dramatically beneath its hilltop castle. The old town of Torroella de Montgrí is one of the best-preserved in the area, and features a porticoed central plaza. For lunch here, we recommend Restaurant Bar Camelot (open daily from 10am).
Next, the route takes you through Empúries, one of the most historically significant sites in Catalonia. We highly recommend that you stop to visit the well-preserved archeological settlement, once the gateway of the classical Greek and Roman cultures into Spain, and the only site on the Iberian Peninsula where the remains of a Greek city coexist with those of a Roman city. The Museum of Archaeology of Catalonia (open daily from 10am – 6pm) offers an audioguide tour of the archaeological site (headphones required).
Continuing along the coastline, you’ll pass by the pretty medieval settlement of Sant Martí de Empúries, which retains its original medieval city walls, and is situated right in front of a superb beach. The riding surface here varies between fine gravel and compacted dirt, making for a scenic and comfortable section of the ride.
Heading inland, the landscape changes as you enter the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park, a vast wetland known for its birdlife and serene beauty. The gravel paths here are wide, fast, and smooth, making for an enjoyable ride through open countryside, rice fields, and canals.
The last section leads you along quiet farm roads and historic gravel paths into Castelló d’Empúries, a beautiful medieval town which boasts a rich architectural heritage; a gothic church, a palace, an old market building and a well-preserved Jewish quarter.
Bike shops
Palafrugell: Gran Fondo Community. (+34) 972 30 5855. Open Mon – Sat 8am – 8pm, Sun 8am – 2pm
Torroella de Montgrí: Burricleta Baix Empordà. (+34) 972 755 082. Open daily 9am – 8pm
L’Escala: Nou Empordà Bikes. (+34) 972 774 042. Open Mon – Fri 10am-1pm/4pm-7:30pm, Sat 9am-1pm/4pm-7:30pm
Sant Pere Pescador: Bike Taller BSP. (+34) 622 826 342. Open Mon – Sat 9am–1pm/5pm–8pm
Click here for our Google Maps list of recommendations in Castelló d’Empuries.
Church of Santa María: The splendid 14th-century Gothic church of Santa María (open daily 10am – 6pm) resembles a Cathedral, and boasts a Romasesque belltower, as well as its own museum.
Jewish Quarter: Castelló d’Empuries was home to a significant Jewish community until their expulsion from Spain in 1492. Their historical legacy is still visible in many sites around the old town.
Ecomuseu Farinera: Fascinating museum set in an old flour mill, which retains the original milling machinery and provides an insight into local life in days gone by (open Tue -Sat 10am – 2pm/4pm – 6pm and Sun 10am – 2pm).
Medieval Prison Museum: The Museu d’Història Medieval de la Cúria-Presó (open Thu – Sun 10am – 4pm) was built in 1336, and held prisoners during the Spanish Inquisition and beyond, some of whom left graffiti that is still visible on the prison walls.
Emporium*: Michelin star restaurant serving locally-sourced cuisine from sea and land (entrance from 1pm – 2pm and 8pm – 9pm Thu – Sat and 1pm – 2pm Sun, Tue and Wed).
Restaurant Cal Patufet: Popular local option serving authentic Cuban fare (open 1pm –3:30pm Wed – Mon and 1pm – 3:30pm /7:30pm – 10:15pm Fri and Sat).
Wednesday, 29th April: Castelló d’Empúries – Banyuls – Figueres
Route: 107 km/66.5 miles
Elevation: +2244 m/7362ft m
Accommodation: Hotel Pirineos
Hotel services: Restaurant, gym, laundry
Meals included: Breakfast
Today, you’ll enjoy one of the most dramatic and challenging stages of the tour, riding through rugged coastal landscapes, cross-border mountain passes, and the legendary terrain of the Cap de Creus peninsula.
Leaving the coast, the ride climbs towards El Mas Fumats, a scenic hilltop area with breathtaking views over the bay. If you’d like to take a break here for a coffee and a snack, we recommend the Mas Fumats Bistro Biker (open Tue – Sat from 8:30am)
From here, the route heads north into the striking Cap de Creus Natural Park, climbing the demanding Col de Perafita.
OPTIONAL: From the summit, you have the option to add an 11 km out-and-back descent to Cadaqués—an iconic whitewashed village where the surrealist painter Salvador Dalí once lived—before climbing Perafita a second time.
From Col de Perafita, you’ll enjoy a smooth downhill ride into Port de la Selva, a whitewashed fishing village framed by hills. If you’d like to stop to eat here, we recommend Restaurante Tina (open Tue – Sun from 8.30am – 11am/1pm – 3pm).
Back on the main route, you’ll follow a spectacular coastal road north, twisting and turning your way through a series of charming beach towns. For lunch with a view, we recommend Restaurant Totsompops in Colera, or El Racó del Mar in Portbou. Crossing the border, you can have lunch in France at Bar Restaurant La Coba in Cerbère, or at Bar-Restaurant Les 9 Caves in Banyuls.
The return to Spain brings another highlight: the steep and storied Col de Banyuls, a short but intense climb that rewards determined riders with a fantastic descent.
Your next stop, Espolla is a sleepy hilltop village known for its dry-stone architecture and heritage wines. We recommend stopping for a quick visit to the modernist wine cellar run by the Espolla cooperative (open Mon – Sat 9am – 2pm/3pm – 6pm, Sun 9am – 2pm).
From here, you’ll continue to Mollet de Peralada, home of La Vinyeta, one of the region’s most dynamic wineries.
Next, you roll into Peralada, famous for cava and wine production, where you can visit the Castle Museum, (open Tue – Sun 10 am – 12pm/3:30pm – 5:30pm), which features wine-making artifacts dating back to the 14th century; visit the Bodega Castell de Peralada at the foot of the castle (open Mon – Fri 6am – 2pm); and explore the medieval town centre. Peralada Castle houses its own Michelin star restaurant, considered to be one of the best in Spain (open Thu 8pm – 10pm and Fri – Sun 1pm – 3pm/8pm – 10pm. Prior reservation required).
From Peralada, you’ll finish with a final stretch into the city of Figueres, capital of the Alt Empordà and known as the home of Catalan genius Salvador Dalí.
Bike shops
Figueres: Edibikes. (+34) 610 124 566. Open Mon – Sat 9am–1pm/4pm-8pm
The capital of the Alt Empordà boasts a charismatic and diverse architectural heritage, from the medieval city walls to the modernist and neo-classical structures around La Rambla.
Click here for our Google Maps list of recommendations in Figueres.
Theatre-Museum Dalí: Still one of the most-visited tourist attractions in Spain, this museum dedicated to Catalonia’s most famous son is a must! (open Tue – Sun, 10:30am – 5:15pm).
San Ferrán Castle: Enjoy fabulous views and fascinating historical tales from the hilltop San Ferrán Castle, the largest of its kind in Europe (open Tue -Sun 10:30am – 3pm)
Your hotel has its own excellent restaurant, Restaurante El Pelegrí. However, if you would prefer to explore the town, we recommend Restaurant El Motel: Traditional, family-run business serving local Catalan cuisine (open daily 12:45pm – 3:30 pm).
Thursday, 30th April: Figueres – Coustouges – Molló
Route: 99 km/61.5 miles km
Elevation: +2616 m/+8513 ft mt
Accommodation: Hotel Calitxó
Hotel services: Bar, restaurant, laundry, swimming pool
Meals included: Breakfast
Prepare for a true mountain adventure as you climb deep into the Pyrenees, crossing international borders and conquering two high passes in a single unforgettable day.
Your journey begins in the rolling foothills near Darnius, where quiet backroads guide you through a landscape of reservoirs, oak forests, and scattered farmhouses. As you ride onward toward Maçanet de Cabrenys, the terrain gradually becomes wilder and more remote, with the mountains rising ahead and the sense of isolation growing with every kilometre. If you fancy a mid-morning snack here, we recommend Hotel Restaurant Els Caçadors (open daily).
From here, you begin your first major challenge: the remote border pass of Coustouges (810 m). This beautifully peaceful climb winds through dense woodland and tiny rural hamlets, offering a tranquil and almost forgotten route into France.
Crossing the border, you arrive in the historic village of Prats-de-Mollo-la-Preste, a fortified town rich in character and Pyrenean charm. It’s a perfect place to pause briefly before the next ascent. If you’d like to grab something to eat or drink, we recommend Bar Catalan Chez Ludo (open daily).
Beyond the village, the road begins to rise once more, this time toward the mighty Coll d’Ares (1,524 m). This is a classic Pyrenean climb, long and steady, with expansive mountain views unfolding as you gain height and a real sense of achievement awaiting at the summit.
From the top, a long and rewarding descent carries you back into Spain, sweeping down through open landscapes toward the high valley of Camprodon. The day concludes in the charming village of Molló, nestled just above Camprodon – an ideal place to rest and recover after a demanding and inspiring day in the mountains.
Your hotel has its own excellent retaurant, known for high-quality dishes using local Ripollès ingredients. If you would like to explore the town further, a good local option is Restaurant El Costabona in the main square, known for traditional mountain cuisine (open Tue – Sun 1pm – 3:30pm).
Friday, 1st May: Molló – Girona
Route: 99 km/61.5 miles
Elevation: +995 m/+3264 ft
Accommodation: Hotel Gran Ultonia
Hotel services: Restaurant, rooftop bar, gym, laundry
Meals included: Breakfast
Please note that May 1st is a public holiday in Spain, and that some shops, restaurants and attractions may be closed, or operating under a reduced timetable.
The final stage takes you on a scenic journey through the heart of Catalonia’s volcanic landscapes, combining challenging climbs with unforgettable scenery.
Your first port of call is the beautiful mountian town of Camprodon, famous for its historical architecture and spectacular setting. Don’t miss a photo stop by the impressive stone bridge!
Next, you’ll climb Coll de Capsacosta, a classic ascent that winds through forested slopes and quiet mountain roads, offering a perfect last test of your legs.
From the summit, the route descends into Olot, the charming capital of the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. Here, you’ll ride through a unique landscape of extinct volcanic cones, lush valleys, and picturesque villages. For a delicious lunch in a beautiful bucolic setting, we recommend Restaurant La Deu (open Thu – Tue 1pm – 4pm).
Leaving Olot, you’ll ride through the Parc Natural, past extinct volcanic craters like Montolivet and Montsacopa, and gently descend into the Vall d’en Bas, a beautiful green valley with wide pastures, farmhouses, and towering cliffs.
We recommend taking a break in Sant Feliu de Pallerols, a picturesque village nestled in woodland. If you fancy a coffee stop here, we recommend Bar L’Estació (open daily from 8am), a great little spot set in town’s former railway station on the vía verde railway route!
Your next stop is Les Planes D’Hostoles, a nature lover’s dream famous for its waterfalls and natural swimming pools. If you’d like to explore the beautiful natural surroundings (or take a dip in one of the pools!), you can stop by the visitor centre in Aparcament Gorgs les Planes. If you’d like to grab something to eat here, we suggest the traditional Bar Restaurant La Caseta (open Tue – Sun from 6:30am).
The ride concludes with a return to Girona, where you can reflect on nearly 600 km of extraordinary roads, challenging climbs, and spectacular scenery—truly a memorable end to an epic Costa Brava and Pyrenees cycling tour.
Saturday, 2nd May: Girona
Departure day
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, our tour will come to an end.
We hope you had a great time discovering the Costa Brava and the Pyrenees with us.
We hope to see you again very soon!
Hotel Alga
Enjoy a privileged location next to Port Bo Beach, in the charming fishing town of Calella de Palafrugell
It is an ideal destination for travellers searching for peace and quiet, beaches, golf and nature, allowing you to explore the most beautiful spots on the Costa Brava easily and comfortably.
Hotel Palau Macelli
Hotel Palau Macelli is located in the heart of the village of Castelló d’Empúries, next to the Basilica of Santa Maria, the old convent of Santa Clara and the city walls.
Discover a world of comfort and elegance, where each space has been carefully designed for the enjoyment of all our customers.
Relax in our spa, located in the old stables of a noble house, refresh yourself and free yourself from stress in our pool or rest in our warm and cosy rooms.
Hotel Calitxó
Perched in the heart of the Vall de Camprodon, Hotel Calitxó is a welcoming mountain retreat that feels like a home away from home.
Nestled in Molló, just moments from the French border, this rustic, family-run hotel blends warm hospitality with peaceful high‑altitude charm. With a saltwater pool, popular restaurant and a secure bike-storage area, Calitxó is the perfect base for cyclists.
Hotel Pirineos
Four-star family hotel in Figueres, just minutes from the Dali Theater Museum.
The hotel is especially characterised by the warm and welcoming family atmosphere which it has maintained all these years. It has 53 modern rooms, fully equipped and decorated in warm colors.
Hotel Gran Ultonia
Hotel Ultonia is located in the centre of Girona, 3 minutes’ walk from the Old Town, Cathedral and Arabic baths. It offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, flat-screen TV and minibar
All 71 rooms at the Hotel Gran Ultonia in the center of Girona are new, spacious and bright, and have easy access to La Terrasseta, an exclusive space for guests with fantastic views of the Cathedral of Girona.
