An electric bike tour of Spain's Catalan landscapes from the mountains to the sea

This electric bike tour in Spain will take you from the stunning Pyrenees Mountains down to the Costa Brava, revealing the most amazing landscapes Catalonia has to offer. And don't worry about the hills! This electric bike tour is all about being able to take your time and savor it all, not only the cycling but the local culture and history as well. And to complete the experience, you'll overnight in some lovely accommodations.

You'll begin to bike from the region's stunning mountain scenery, picturesque medieval villages, and abundant wildlife. The terrain then becomes progressively more undulating, and the vegetation changes from the forests and meadows of the Pyrenees to Mediterranean vegetation and agricultural areas. The sea is getting closer!

Later, you will arrive at the plain of Empordà, essentially the backyard of the Costa Brava. From this setting, you'll discover by bike the surrounding well-preserved medieval villages and all the region has to offer. You'll finish your electric bike experience cycling along the Costa Brava with its beautiful beaches, coves with rugged cliffs, and charming fishing villages. Beautiful!

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Highlights

• Well-preserved medieval villages, rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves
• The lofty peaks of the Pyrenees
• 'El Carrilet' and 'Ruta del Tren Petit' greenways
• Beaches, coves, and cliffs of the Costa Brava
• Picturesque fishing villages
• Cala Castell - One of the best virgin beaches on the Costa Brava
• Dali Museum
• Plenty of optional activities such as wine tasting, hiking, yoga, and more!
• High-end unique hotels

Learn More

Interested in adding to your itinerary? Take a look at our cycling day tours in Barcelona.

Daily program

Day 1: Arrival day
On the first day, you will be picked up after lunch at your Barcelona hotel (not included) or from the airport to be transferred (2 hours) by private transfer to Girona. Girona offers a wealth of attractions and activities. Its renowned Jewish old town stands as a testament to history, while the cathedral showcases impressive Gothic architecture with its vast stone vaulted interiors. Exploring the city walls or tracing the path along the Onyar River rewards you with stunning vistas of the vibrant, colorful houses lining its banks.

Day 2: Girona - Sant Feliu de Guíxols (35 miles/56 km)
You'll begin your journey tracing a cycle path leading southward, guiding you out of the city. This route unfolds along the 'El Carrilet' greenway which passes through Quart, Cassà de la Selva, and Llagostera. Throughout the ride, the Gavarres Massif, a forested mountain range predominantly comprising oak trees vital for cork production, serves as a scenic backdrop. Moving onward, you'll ascend towards Col de Sant Grau, setting the stage for an exhilarating descent overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The final stretch of your adventure hugs the coastline, treating you to breathtaking vistas from a lofty 100-meter vantage point above the sea. Your destination is Sant Feliu de Guíxols, and your hotel, nestled near the charming Sant Pol beach, offers a relaxing conclusion to this remarkable journey.

Elevation gain: +800 m

Day 3: Sant Feliu de Guíxols - Torroella de Montgrí (34 miles/55 km)
Today's journey takes you northward along the coastline, seamlessly blending the coastal road with scenic seafront boulevards. Your route includes a visit to the prominent port town of Palamós. After a few kilometers, you'll reach the pristine Platja de Castell cove, notable for its untouched beauty and the ancient Iberian settlement situated on its left side. This spot offers an ideal setting for a leisurely picnic and a refreshing swim in the azure waters of the Mediterranean.

Later, you'll follow the path of the 'Ruta del Tren Petit' greenway. As you continue, you'll reach the enchanting old fishing village of Calella de Palafurgell, a true gem along the Costa Brava. This is also a great spot to stop to have lunch.

After a rest in front of the sea, the route takes you north and inland to Palafrugell which boasts fish, meat, and vegetable markets. This is the ideal place to learn about the productive land of this region. You can also visit the Cork Museum. After exiting Palafrugell, you will reach the medieval village of Pals, one of the better-conserved medieval centers. The ride will take you through natural wetlands with extensive rice fields and long sandy beaches. The bike tour ends in Torroella de Montgrí at the foot of the castle Montgri Massif.

Elevation gain: +480 m

Day 4: Circular route through the medieval villages (40 miles/65 km)
This day presents the option of relaxation by the pool or beach, but an appealing loop ride also beckons. Follow the course of the Daro River, uncovering the allure of small, picturesque medieval villages like Fonolleres. Venturing deeper inland, your path leads to Púbol, where the Castle of Gala Dalí stands as a testament to Salvador Dalí's surrealism, boasting captivating decor.

Returning towards the coast, you'll encounter the ruins of an Iberian village near Ullastret, granting you a breathtaking panoramic vista over the expanse. The journey back to Torroella winds through Palau-Sator and Peratallada, two exceptionally charming medieval villages. For a beachside perspective, an alternate route guides you to the coast, allowing you to embrace the beach and explore the coastal village of L’Estartit, rounding off this day of diverse experiences.

Elevation gain: +570 m

Day 5: Torroella de Montgrí - Castelló d’Empúries (32 miles/52 km)
The journey unfolds further north, leading you into the captivating Alt Empordà region. As you proceed, the expansive Bay of Roses opens up, featuring inviting sandy beaches that stretch along its coastline. Nestled near the picturesque medieval settlement of Sant Martí de Empúries and overlooking a stunning beach, a visit to the archaeological site of Empúries is a must. Here, Greek and Roman ruins stand as a testament to the classic cultures' interaction with the Iberian Peninsula.

Continuing your route northward, you'll pass through the protected marshlands of Aiguamolls de l’Empordà, a haven for diverse wildlife. The journey concludes at Castelló d’Empúries, a village adorned with a rich architectural heritage, including a Gothic church, the Count's Palace, an old market building, and a historic Jewish quarter, making it a fitting finale to this captivating expedition.

Elevation gain: +240 m

Day 6: Loop Castelló d’Empúries (43 miles/68 km)
Today's itinerary promises a more challenging adventure, leading you to the stunning Cape Creus with its breathtaking landscapes. This route entails two extended climbs, making it advisable to carry a battery charger for recharging during your lunch break. Upon conquering the Coll de Perafita ascent, you'll arrive at Cadaqués, renowned as one of the most charming fishing villages. For those keen on exploration, extending your ride to the Cape will grant you access to the Tudela geological park, revealing the region's geological wonders in all their splendor.

Following your exploration of Cape Creus, your route retraces its steps, leading you back up to Perafita before descending to Port de la Selva. From this point, a challenging ascent awaits, guiding you to the Romanesque monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes. Perched atop a mountain, this remarkable structure is a testament to the region's history and architectural marvels. Following this visit, a rewarding downhill journey will guide you back to your hotel, offering a fitting conclusion to a day filled with both physical and cultural exploration.

Elevation gain: +1235 m

Day 7: Castelló d’Empúries - Figueres (28 miles/45 km)
The cycling tour embarks towards Peralada, the heart of the wine Designation of Origin (DO). Here, you can immerse yourself in the world of wine by visiting the winery, exploring the castle, and wandering through the medieval town. Continuing your journey, you'll pedal through the upper reaches of the vineyard region, passing through Garriguella, Vilamaniscle, and Rabos, where the oldest vineyards stand. A brief stop at the modernist Espolla cooperative cellar is a must.

The route then leads to a lengthy downhill ride that culminates in the city of Figueres. Upon arrival, cyclists are in for a treat with a visit to the renowned Theatre-Museum Dalí, an attraction that still ranks among Spain's most visited tourist sites. This journey offers a perfect blend of wine, history, and artistry.

Elevation gain: +440 m

Day 8: Figueres - Olot (49 miles/79 km)
Leaving behind the surrealist capital, your journey takes you towards the volcanic landscapes of the Pyrenees region. You will start heading south through an undulating region partially covered by Mediterranean forest. Continuing your exploration, you'll traverse the area around the Banyoles Lake before arriving at Santa Pau. This picturesque town is nestled amidst a landscape dotted with small volcanoes, their wooded slopes adding to the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Traversing a serene beech forest, your path guides you to the town of Olot. This town not only offers a scenic journey through nature but also invites you to explore its pedestrian-friendly downtown. With its own unique charm and attractions, Olot adds yet another layer of discovery to your cycling adventure through this diverse and captivating region.

Elevation gain: +1325 m

Day 9: Olot - Girona (37 miles/59 km)
The final leg of your journey unfolds as you leave Olot behind and follow the Brugent River along the historic train line known as the 'Carrilet'. This route, mostly downhill, offers a leisurely ride, creating the perfect opportunity to reflect on all the sights and experiences you've encountered along the way. It serves as a serene conclusion to your remarkable adventure.

As you pedal towards Girona, the memories of the places you've explored and the landscapes you've traversed will likely fill your thoughts. Girona, your last stop, provides an ideal setting for the culmination of your journey. Spending your last night in this city will undoubtedly be a fitting and rewarding way to bring your grand adventure to a close as you head back home.

Elevation gain: +240 m

Day 10: Departure from Girona

Photos

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Dates & Prices

Questions about pricing or options? Call +1-215-613-0874 to talk to a Tour Advisor now.

Included services

• 9 nights’ accommodation in a double room (selected hotel category)
• Breakfast each morning
• Electrically-assisted bike
• Luggage transfers(2 pieces per person; max weight of 33lbs each)
• Road book and maps for every day
• General touristic information of the area
• Navigational app
• Service hotline assistance during the trip (daily, 8a-8p)

Tour Company

Map

Maps are for information purposes only and reflect typical routes between overnight locations. They may not reflect your actual route.

Surface and terrain

The route follows low-traffic roads. In some cases, non-paved gravel roads may be incorporated for short distances in order to avoid traffic. Some daily routes include difficult climbs, which are generally easily conquered on the e-bike.

If you don’t wish to use an e-bike you can choose a non-electric touring or road bike, but keep in mind the difficulty level will increase.

How to get there

Tour start/end:

Barcelona Airport (BCN)

A private transfer from the airport or a hotel in Barcelona is possible with a surcharge. At the end of your tour, you can be transferred back to the airport, a hotel in the city of Barcelona, or even to Girona, if you prefer.