Traveling the Girona area of Spain by bicycle is remarkable for its archeological importance as this route visits the famous ruins of Empuries and the ancient Iberian settlement of Ullastret. Other important towns such as La Bisbal d'Emporda with its castle and ceramic tradition are wonderful visits. Figueres, the capital of Alt Emporda has the Dali museum and in Banyoles there is the lake which is the biggest in the region. The Natural Park of the Marshes is an important and protected ornithological site. Arrive in Girona and transfer to your farmhouse to start your cycling tour vacation!
Itinerary
Day 1 | Arrival Day
Arrival in Girona by train between 12:00 and 5:00 pm; we will meet you at the train station and transfer you to the first B&B in the nearby town of Terradelles, deliver bikes, and go over the tour. The first night is in the surrounding countryside near Olives or Terradelles. You can use the remaining day to relax, or do a warm up ride. Night and dinner in your farmhouse. (D)
Day 2 | Loop Ride Day 36 km
Today you will ride to Banyoles, where you can visit the town and its large lake where the 92 Olympic rowing was held. The city offers cultural and historical sites to visit. Along the undulating roads you will pass many small and charming villages with their old stone streets and houses from another time long forgotten! 36 km, and return for a 2nd night. (B,D)
Day 3 | Ride Day 31 km
A wonderful ride today through the best part of the Massif Les Gavarres. Visit medieval towns like Sant Jordi Desvalls, Foixa with its view of hte Baix Emporda area, and La Pera. In La Pera and Pubol you can visit the Dali Castle that was restored by Dali and his wife and is now a museum. Ride: 31 km. (B,D)
Day 4 | Loop Ride Day or Rest Day 34 km
Loop ride through gentle countrside where you can visit a large number of picturesque medieval villages: Cruilles, Monells, La Bisbal. La Bisbal d'Emporda is the capital town and offers a medieval district and castle. Return to your same B&B with dinner included. 34 km. (B,D)
Day 5 | Departure afer Breakfast. We transfer you back to Girona train station at 9:30 am.
OPTION to extend to 7 nights: Add 220 euros/person with the following continuation:
Day 5: Ride Day to Sant Pere Pescador - 48/53 km
This route goes along flatland areas toward the coast. You will pass through Torroella de Montgri, Bellcaire, and the medieval complex of Sant Marti. You will pass ancient remains of Greek and Roman cities at Empuries, the most visited archealogical site in Catalonia. You cycle along the seaside for an enchanting setting. Ride 48 km with option extend up to 53 km. Dinner on your own. (B)
Day 6 | Loop Ride Day 54 km
This day is for visiting the Natural Park of Emporda, a protected area, and wildlife viewing area. Also possible is a visit of the medieval city of Castello d'Empuries which was a very important site in antiquity. Return to the same farmhouse tonight and dinner on your own. Ride 54 km. (B)
Day 7 | Loop Ride Day - Figueres 53 km
The town of Figueres, a larger city that has the museum-theatre of Salvadore Dali, is the destination today. Spend some time at the museum/theatre and explore the town. You can also visit the castle and try the wine of the village of Perelada. Ride 53 km, dinner on your own. (B)
Day 8 | Departure day; transfer to Girona or Figueres station at 9:30 am.
Details
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Dates: On request, all year long, except August 1-28
Accommodation: [Virtual Hotel Tour] 4 nights in charming farmhouse B&B's where you will be welcomed into your own room with ensuite facilities. Dining is family style and a great way to meet others. Properties are well appointed often with elaborate stone and tile work, common areas offer reading places, and some of the properties have pools. Dinner is usually served late in the Spanish tradition as well as late breakfasts.
Bike 94 euros: [Click
for image] Trek 7200FX hybrids, 24 speed, shimano groupo,
suspension saddle, aluminum frame, rapid fire shift, 700x35
presta, 15kg loaded with rear rack and panniers, 2 bottle
cages and bottles (male frame only); flat pedals unless clips
requested in advance. Travelers can bring own clipless pedals
to be installed. SPD possible for 10 euros supplement.
Trip includes: Farmhouse B&B lodging 4 nights, breakfast & dinner daily, luggage transfers, arrival meeting transfer, orientation and bike fitting, local traveler support, riding routes with maps and cue sheets, suggestions for visitation and discounts, departure transfer, bike delivery, pickup. We can also arrange additional travel services and stopovers.
Note: Option above does NOT include dinners on last 3 nights, all other services the same. |
Empar, Saskia, and Dave are all available to help; they all live in Catalonia and will meet you for orientation and provide emergency assistance throughout your trip.
