A Self-Guided Cycling Week in Lucca

Overview

Welcome to Girona! Upon arrival, head straight to your hotel to check-in. Once settled, take time to explore this charming city, rich in history and culture. Girona is renowned for its beautifully preserved Jewish Quarter, one of the finest in the world. Don’t miss the impressive Cathedral and a scenic walk along the medieval walls, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Should you need transfers or any assistance upon arrival, we’re here to help. If you’d like to acclimatize or simply enjoy more time in Girona, we’d be happy to arrange extra nights for your stay. Stage 1: Girona – Sant Feliu de Guíxols. Your tour begins with a welcome meeting at our office, where we’ll go over the routes and key details. If you’re renting bikes with us, this will be followed by a bike fitting to ensure you’re all setup for your ride. Stage 2: Sant Feliu de Guíxols – Torroella de Montgrí. Today’s journey takes you northwards along the coastline, seamlessly blending the coastal road with scenic seafront boulevards. Your route includes a visit to the prominent Today’s journey takes you north along the scenic coastline, combining picturesque seafront roads with tranquil beachside boulevards. One of your first highlights is the bustling port town of Palamós, renowned for its fishing heritage and fresh seafood. Just a few kilometers beyond, you’ll arrive at the unspoiled cove of Platja de Castell. This idyllic beach, framed by pine forest and home to an ancient Iberian settlement on its left flank, is a perfect spot for a picnic and a refreshing swim in the clear Mediterranean waters. From here, the route follows the Ruta del Tren Petit, a peaceful greenway built on an old railway line. This leads you to the charming coastal village of Calella de Palafrugell, one of the Costa Brava’s true gems. It’s a fantastic location for a leisurely lunch with sea views. After a relaxing break, the route heads inland to the town of Palafrugell. Here, you can explore the vibrant local market offering fresh fish, meat, and produce—an excellent introduction to the region’s culinary traditions. The town is also home to the Cork Museum, which sheds light on one of the area’s historic industries. Continuing onward, you’ll reach the beautifully preserved medieval village of Pals, a place that feels frozen in time. The ride then takes you through the tranquil wetlands and expansive rice fields that characterize the landscape near the coast. The day concludes in Torroella de Montgrí, nestled at the foot of the Montgrí Massif. The town is watched over by its imposing hilltop castle, offering a dramatic end to a richly varied day. Stage 3: Circular route through the medieval villages. Today, you can choose between a rest day or a scenic loop ride that takes you inland to explore several charming medieval villages. The route follows the course of the Daró River, revealing the quiet beauty of small, picturesque villages like Fonolleres. As you venture further inland, you’ll arrive in Púbol, home to the Castle of Gala Dalí—a striking monument to Salvador Dalí’s surrealist world, featuring captivating and imaginative décor. On the return journey toward Torroella de Montgrí, you’ll pass by the ruins of an ancient Iberian village near Ullastret, offering sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The route then winds through the storybook villages of Palau-Sator and Peratallada, each rich in medieval charm and character. Stage 4: Torroella de Montgrí – Castelló d’Empúries. The journey continues northward into the captivating region of Alt Empordà. As you ride, the expansive Bay of Roses unfolds before you, with its long stretches of inviting sandy beaches lining the coastline. Near the charming medieval village of Sant Martí d’Empúries, a highlight awaits: the archaeological site of Empúries. Set against the backdrop of a stunning beach, this site showcases remarkably preserved Greek and Roman ruins—a powerful testament to the introduction of classical influences on the Iberian Peninsula. From there, the route takes you through the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà, a protected wetland teeming with birdlife and biodiversity. The day concludes in Castelló d’Empúries, a village rich in architectural heritage. Highlights include its grand Gothic church, the Count’s palace, the old market hall, and a well-preserved Jewish quarter, offering a glimpse into the town’s layered history. Stage 5: Loop Cap de Creus & Cadaqués. Today’s itinerary promises one of the most adventurous and rewarding rides of the tour, taking you deep into the dramatic landscapes of Cape Creus. This stage features two significant climbs and a wealth of scenic and cultural highlights. Your first challenge is the ascent of the Coll de Perafita, after which you’ll descend into the iconic village of Cadaqués—widely celebrated as one of the most picturesque fishing villages in the Mediterranean. For those eager to delve deeper into the natural wonders of the region, an optional extension to Cape Creus offers an unforgettable experience. Here, you can visit the fascinating Tudela geological park, a unique landscape shaped by wind and sea, where surreal rock formations inspired Salvador Dalí. After exploring the cape, you’ll retrace your route back to the Coll de Perafita and enjoy a descent into Port de la Selva. From there, the second major climb of the day begins, leading you up to the Romanesque monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes. Perched high above the sea, this majestic site offers sweeping views and a deep sense of historical significance. The day ends with a long and rewarding downhill ride back to your hotel—a perfect close to a day filled with physical challenge, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural discoveries. Stage 6: Castelló d’Empúries – Figueres. Today’s route sets off toward Peralada, the heart of the Empordà wine Designation of Origin (DO). This charming town invites you to immerse yourself in the local culture—whether by visiting its renowned wineries, exploring the impressive Peralada Castle, or strolling through its well-preserved medieval streets. Continuing through the upper reaches of the vineyard region, you’ll cycle past the villages of Garriguella, Vilamaniscle, and Rabós, where some of the region’s oldest and most storied vineyards thrive. A short stop at the modernist cooperative cellar in Espolla is highly recommended for its architectural charm and insight into traditional winemaking. The route then leads to Figueres, where your journey culminates with a visit to the iconic Dalí Theatre-Museum. Celebrated for its surreal architecture and immersive art experience, it remains one of Spain’s most visited cultural landmarks. Stage 7: Figueres – Olot. Leaving behind the surrealist capital, your journey leads you toward the volcanic landscapes of the Pyrenees region. You’ll begin by heading south through a gently rolling landscape, partially cloaked in Mediterranean forest. As your ride continues, you’ll pass by the tranquil waters of Banyoles Lake, a perfect stop for coffee or lunch, before arriving in Santa Pau—a picturesque village nestled among a patchwork of small volcanoes. From there, a serene beech forest welcomes you as the route guides you toward Olot. Surrounded by dramatic volcanic terrain, Olot offers not only a scenic ride but also a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly town center. With its distinct character and cultural appeal, Olot adds yet another layer of richness to your cycling adventure through this remarkably diverse and captivating region. Stage 8: Olot – Girona. The final leg of your journey leads you back to Girona via a scenic route from Olot, following the Brugent River valley along the former railway line known as “El Carrilet”, now part of the Vias Verdes network (greenways). This tranquil path winds through a richly varied landscape—from majestic mountains and rolling hills to serene oak and beech forests. Along the way, you’ll pass through the extraordinary volcanic region of La Garrotxa. As you ride gently downhill, this peaceful stretch offers a perfect moment for reflection on your remarkable adventure. With each pedal stroke toward Girona, the vivid memories of the places you’ve explored and the diverse landscapes you’ve traversed will linger in your thoughts. Girona, your final stop, is an ideal place to end your journey. Spending your last night in this vibrant, historic city will undoubtedly be a fitting and rewarding close to an unforgettable cycling experience. Departure day. After breakfast, your trip with us comes to an end. From here, you can continue your journey or head back home. If you’d like to extend your stay and enjoy a bit more of what Girona has to offer, just let us know — we’ll be happy to help.

Daily Ride Schedule

Accommodation & Services

Accommodation

Hotel

What's Included