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Introduction
Catalonia is a land of
great contrasting landscapes - and a world away from the nearby
Costas. Thanks to the conversion of a former railway track to a
dedicated cycle path, it is now possible to cycle almost uninterruptedly
from the foothills of the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean without
having to negotiate roads. Time is spent exploring the little visited
Garrotxa area - a land of woods, extinct volcanoes and ancient villages.
We also combine our cycle journey to the sea with a stroll through
the Ramblas of Barcelona and the medieval back streets of Girona.
Tour information
Barcelona & the Ramblas Cycle
Pyrenees
Capital of Catalonia, Barcelona offers a range of unbeatable attractions
with its character epitomised by the architecture of Antoni Gaudi
and the Ramblas - the link between the old town and the harbour.
Leaving Barcelona by train, we journey towards the Pyrenees to Ripoll,
the start of our trail to the coast. In association with the Spanish
railway company, hundreds of kilometres of disused track has been
converted into cycle routes known as “Greenways”. Gradients
are mild and offer the chance to avoid motor traffic. Cycle
Pyrenees
Foothills of the Pyrenees &
the Volcan Parque Natural
We follow our “greenway” south east
into a region of low mountains, evergreen oak forests and the Garrotxa
Parque Natural - the last eruption here was a mere 11,000 years
ago! Birdlife is prolific - this is a beautiful area of wooded landscapes
and volcanic caldera interspersed with ancient walled villages and
Romanesque churches. We have time in Olot to explore the local trails
- the only way to truly appreciate the glorious countryside. We
continue to Girona, criss-crossing streams over a series of bridges.
Girona was originally founded by the Romans, its ancient centre
straddles a fortress-like hill. Taking a break from our bikes we
climb the city walls at dusk for views over the old quarter.
To the Mediterranean
The last leg of our journey takes us to the old
port town of Sant Feliu de Guixos, crossing through oak and cork
forests before bringing us to the sea. We have a day to relax here,
swim or indulge in excellent Catalan cuisine and wine. For the dedicated
cyclists there is one more opportunity to explore this beautiful
region and go for a final ride along the scenic coast prior to our
return to Barcelona.
Accommodation
and Meals
7nts hotel; 7 breakfasts included.
Transport
21-gear hybrid bikes with front suspension, bag-rack & pannier
bag for day things.
Comments
Grade B - 174km/4 days (average 44km/cycling
day). 1 day is left free with optional rides available. This trip
mainly follows the undemanding former railway line (which is traffic
free) or on quiet small country roads, with a strong emphasis on
gradually cycling downhill from the Pyrenees foothills to the sea.
There are 2 days with some ascent (140m - 220m) and 1 day with a
390m ascent. 85% converted railway line or paths, 15% tarmac roads.
Group
Size
Approx. 12 to 16.
Tour
Staff
Our Tour Leader/driver to assist, advise and
co-ordinate. All luggage is transported by our leader in a van that
serves as support vehicle. No vehicle back up on days 4 and 7. Detailed
maps of every day's ride will be provided so you can ride independently.
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