Classic Catalan Cycling
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable nine-day journey through the heart of Catalonia, Spain. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the coastal charm of Calella to the medieval grandeur of Girona, you'll traverse through picturesque landscapes, explore ancient ruins, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of this vibrant region. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a food enthusiast, this tour has something for everyone. Enjoy the warm hospitality of local hotels, savor the regional cuisine, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Included
All breakfasts and 2 evening meals included Traditional Spanish food such as paella, chorizo and albondigas (meatballs) can be found on just about every menu in Catalunya, but don’t forget to try the regional specialities too. Local cuisine features plenty of fish, including world-renowned anchovies from L’Escala, and botifarras (black pudding) from the mountains. A good starter might be Pan Catalán (pa amb tomàquet), this is lightly toasted bread, drizzled with olive oil and topped with tomatoes and garlic. Thanks to its geography, the region has developed “Sea and Mountain” - mar y muntana cuisine, combining chicken with lobster, or rabbit with prawns. Fruits are used as well, such as roasted chicken and figs, or pheasant and grapes. Dishes are rich and hearty, however, it is not just a meat-based cuisine, there are plenty of vegetable options. Catalan dishes also rely heavily on sauces: Sofrito is an onion and tomato sauce, Picada is made from dried fruits, nuts and herbs, Sanfaina is a sauce of fried peppers, aubergines, onions and tomatoes and Romesco is made with tomatoes, peppers, nuts and garlic. Most menus are written in both Castilian and Catalan and sometimes in English too, but you may find a pocket dictionary useful in the more remote places.
Luggage transfers between hotels
The hotels on this holiday are as varied as the scenery, and include the Hotel Garbi, overlooking the fishing village of Calella de Palafrugell; the contemporary Hotel Moli del Mig; a converted 15th century mill in Torroella de Montgri and two chic town hotels one which has a small pool.
Headwater wine service
GPS route navigation
High quality bikes
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Calella
- Calella - Arrival day
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- Bungee Jumping Lloret de Mar
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Welcome to Calella, a charming coastal city. Start your journey by soaking up the sun at the local 'blue flag' beaches or unwind by the hotel pool. As the evening approaches, explore the city's culinary scene with our recommended local restaurants. Overnight stay at Hotel Garbi (or similar).
Day 2 – Day 2: Calella to Torroella de Montgri via Palafrugell and Begur
- Calella
- Palafrugell
- Begur
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- Platja de Canyelles Grosses
- Mountains of Begur
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Kickstart your day with a scenic ride through Palafrugell, leading to Begur. Explore the remnants of the medieval castle and marvel at the colonial Cuban-influenced villas. Continue your journey to the stunning Platja de Pals beach before heading to Torroella de Montgri for a two-night stay at Hotel Moli del Mig (or similar).
Day 3 – Day 3: Exploring Torroella de Montgri and L'Estartit
- l'Escala
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- Begur's Castle
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Spend the day exploring the medieval center of Torroella de Montgri, once the Royal Port for the Kings of Aragon. Take a walk up to the 13th-century Montgri Castle, offering panoramic views of the town and the Emporda plain. You may also choose to cycle to nearby L'Estartit for a beach day. Overnight at Hotel Moli del Mig (or similar).
Day 4 – Day 4: Torroella de Montgri to Figueres via L'Escala and Castello d'Empuries
- l'Escala
- Figueres
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- Puig Rom
- Canònica de Santa Maria de Vilabertran
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Today, cycle to the coastal town of L'Escala to explore the ancient Greek and Roman Empuries ruins. Continue to Castello d'Empuries, home to the 1,000-year-old church, Santa Maria de Castello. End the day in Figueres, where you'll stay overnight at Hotel Pirineos (or similar).
Day 5 – Day 5: Exploring Figueres
- Figueres
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- Castell Gala Dalí de Púbol
- Sant Pere, Besalú
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Spend the day exploring Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dali. Stroll along La Rambla, discover the old town's medieval squares and arches. Visit the Teatre-Museu Gala Salvador Dali and the 18th-century Sant Ferran Castle, the largest monument in Catalonia. Overnight stay at Hotel Pirineos (or similar).
Day 6 – Day 6: Figueres to Girona
- Figueres
- Girona
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Today, head further inland through lush green meadows and charming hamlets, following the Rivers Ter and Onyar into Girona, the region's capital. Overnight stay at Hotel Ciutat de Girona (or similar).
Day 7 – Day 7: Exploring Girona and Optional Trip to Barcelona
- Girona
- Barcelona
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- Cathedral of Girona
- Església de Sant Pere
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Explore the stunning city of Girona, dating back to pre-Roman times. Walk the city walls, discover the Placa de la Independencia, the impressive cathedral, and the Jewish Quarter. You may also choose to take a fast train to Barcelona or cycle to Catalonia's largest natural lake, Estany de Banyoles. Overnight stay at Hotel Ciutat de Girona (or similar).
Day 8 – Day 8: Girona to Calella de Palafrugell via Platja d'Aro and Calonge
- Girona
- Platja d'Aro
- Palamós
- Palafrugell
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Ride out of Girona on the Via Verde, an old railway line that leads to the coast. Continue around the coast past Platja d'Aro and Calonge to the seafront town of Calella de Palafrugell. Overnight stay at Hotel Garbi (or similar).
Day 9 – Day 9: Departure from Calella de Palafrugell
- Palafrugell - Departure day
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Your memorable journey through Catalonia comes to an end today. After breakfast, check out from the hotel and proceed for your onward journey. We hope you take back home beautiful memories and experiences.
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