Nothing Beats Cycling Catalonia, Spain
Catalonia, with its pristine beaches, warm climate and mountainous views, is arguably one of Spain’s most beautiful places to visit. Add to this its unique Mediterranean culture and delectable cuisine and it’s no surprise that Catalonia has become a premiere tourist destination. But Catalonia isn’t just a place to go for sun and relaxation. It’s also one of the most amazing places on earth to cycle. Here are five compelling reasons you should consider a bike trip in Catalonia, Spain.
Barcelona
Empuries
If ancient history and culture interests you, then a cycle through this quaint town should definitely be on your itinerary. This archeological site offers a fascinating glimpse back at the ancient Greeks and Romans who settled there centuries ago. With medieval ruins, a museum, breathtaking beaches on which to sunbathe, and beautiful coastline to cycle along there’s plenty to do and see.
Catalan Culture
Much like Catalonia’s warm and pleasant climate, its people are very welcoming. The culture is completely different than that of other parts of Spain and can only be described as unique. For example, various festivals held throughout Catalonia often feature oddities like castells, which are basically human towers. Music and dance are an intricate and important part of Catalan culture, as is the combination of languages spoken there, which include Spanish, Catalan and Aranese. You really have to experience the Catalan culture for yourself to truly understand.
Girona
This historical city, located in Catalonia’s old Jewish sector, is lined with ancient alleys and multicolored houses called Les Cases de L’onyar, which dot the river bank and give the city much of its character. Most notable is the city’s historical center, which is surrounded by the same thick walls that have protected it for centuries. The Onyar River divides Girona into two parts which are connected by four bridges. The Centre Bonastruca Porta (Museum of History of the Jews), located in the heart of Girona’s Jewish Quarter (El Call), offers guided tours and provides visitors with an excellent account of the people who inhabited the area before the 15th Century, when the Jews were forced out by the Spanish monarchy.
Weather and Landscape
There is so much to see and experience in Catalonia, but perhaps the simplest yet most compelling reason to take a bike trip to Spain is the very atmosphere itself. With comfortable temperatures and mild weather year-round, there’s never a bad time to visit. In fact, Catalonia is the choice of many pro cyclists because it offers the perfect weather in which to train. The landscape is also ideal, with a variety of options to suit any cycler’s needs. From the challenging Pyrenees hill climbs to the winding Mediterranean coastal roads, the environment is nothing less than perfect.
If its ancient history, rich culture and breathtaking landscapes you seek, Catalonia is the place to be. It’s certainly one of Spain’s greatest gems. And with its small winding roads, challenging terrain and miles of beautiful coastline it’s also a biker’s dream. For the reasons listed here, and countless others, Catalonia is a destination that should be on any cycling enthusiast’s travel itinerary.