Catalonia in north eastern Spain has long been known for its colourful past, stunning coastline and rolling countryside. This remarkable landscape is ideally suited to cycle touring, where regular stops at medieval villages, ancient ruins and Mediterranean beaches are an essential part of the day. The pace is relaxed following flat to gently rolling terrain, from the green Catalonian countryside past fields of sunflowers and wheat, forests of pines and even rice fields into an ancient land inhabited by Iberians in pre-Roman times and once besieged by pirates. During the ride stay in three specially selected rural hotels (each with its own unique charm), where you’ll enjoy hearty Catalan breakfasts each morning and dine out at any of the excellent local restaurants each evening.
Highlights
- Easy cycling through beautiful and ever changing landscapes
- Inland and coastal cycling past fields, orchards, medieval villages, river banks and beaches
- Renovated historical buildings converted to comfortable rural accommodation
- Delicious regional cuisine and a wide selection of restaurants for dining out
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Flaça, transfer to Corçà
If you are arriving into the train station in Flaça, on the Barcelona – Girona – Figueras line, you will be picked up at the station and transferred to the first night’s accommodation. A transfer from Girona airport can also be arranged (additional cost may apply). Overnight stay in the small town of Corçà.
Day 2 Cycle through Monells and Madremanya, visit castle at Pubol (17 or 31km)
The first day of cycling in Baix Empordà (Lower Ampurdan) takes you through picturesque landscapes of lovely villages, tiny vegetable gardens and Mediterranean woods. The Medieval historical centres of Monells and Madremanya are especially worth a visit, as is the castle-museum in Pubol which Dalí dedicated to his wife Gala. This cycling route may be a bit tough for a first day, but there is always the option of taking a shortcut. (B)
Day 3 Cycle through woods and rolling landscapes to Peratallada (24km)
Today you begin with a short ascent through wooded terrain, then the route takes you mainly on the flat through landscapes reminiscent of Tuscany, where small villages sit atop hills. This vast and fertile agricultural region was worked long ago by the Iberians, who introduced the cypress tree as a windbreak to protect the soil against erosion. In the evening, you’ll have the challenge of selecting one of the many inviting restaurants for dinner. (B)
Day 4 Cycle to the Costa Brava beaches (40km)
Today you cycle out to the Costa Brava. Follow quiet country lanes through the pretty regional capital of Pals, to Palafrugell and Llafranca then Calella de Palafrugell, one of the most beautiful fishing villages along this coast. You can stop for lunch at a restaurant on the beach. In the afternoon, visit the lovely botanical gardens in Cap Roig or venture further south through the valley of Aubi, with its well-preserved rural atmosphere. Some local farmhouses still have towers dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries, where villagers once sought refuge against pirate attacks. (B)
Day 5 Cycle through the Ter River delta and on to coastal beaches (31km)
This relatively gentle cycling route takes you through the green rice-fields of the Ter River delta, with its lovely windmills, then onward to the sandy beaches on the Mediterranean coast. If you prefer to spend the day relaxing, the village of Peratallada is also the perfect spot to enjoy a rest day or a short stroll through the nearby forest. (B)
Day 6 Cycle via Greek and Roman ruins at Empuries to Sant Pere Pescador (38km)
Today you travel northward to the region of Alt Empordà (Upper Ampurdan). Cycle through mixed forests, open rural landscape and endless orchards. On the way, you pass Empuries, an interesting archaeological site with Greek and Roman ruins. Torroella de Montgri, with its Medieval streets and local palaces, makes a good place to pause for lunch. Your day’s journey ends in Sant Pere Pescador, just a few kilometres inland from the blue Mediterranean Sea. (B)
Day 7 Salvador Dalí museum, Aiguamolls Park (53km), return Sant Pere
This route takes you first to Figueres, the village whose name is synonymous with that of Salvador Dalí. Visit the surrealist painter’s museum and take a pleasant stroll along the Rambla. Just outside the town you pass a beautiful Augustine monastery before following the Muga River to the Medieval town of Castello d’Empuries. In the afternoon, you cycle through Aiguamolls de l’Emporda Natural Park, green and refreshing wetlands with an impressive seasonal water bird colony. (B)
Day 8 Trip concludes
Your arrangements comes to an end today after breakfast. Transport to the train station in Figueres is included in the program. (B)
Inclusions
- 7 breakfasts
- 7 nights accommodation in rural hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
- Transfer of luggage from hotel to hotel
- Rental of 21 speed bike equipped with panniers, helmet and repair kit
- Arrival and departure transfers from/to Flaça & Figueres train station
- Emergency hotline
- Maps and route descriptions per room booked
UTX-UCB
Images courtesy of Utracks
Related experiences
Cycle the New South Wales South Coast
$1645 pp Twinshare, Fri 7 May -Tue 11 May 2021 Fri 27 Aug -Tue 31 Aug 2021 Fri 24 Sep -Tue 28 Sep 2021 Fri 29 Oct -Tue 2 Nov 2021 Fri 26 Nov -Tue 30 Nov 2021 Fri 17 … Continue reading →
Cycle South Australia’s Wine Regions
17-22 April, 1-6 May, 7-12 Aug, 4-9 Sep, 2-7 Oct, 30 Oct – 4 Nov, 27 Nov – 2 Dec, 18-23 Dec 2021 from NZD$2277 pp Twinshare, $3007 Single Day 1: Adelaide Welcome to Adelaide and the start of your … Continue reading →
Biking Aotearoa – Auckland to Wellington
SELF DRIVE & E-BIKE PACKAGE 9 nights /10 days, Auckland to Wellington From NZ$3359 per person, share twin Single Occupancy Surcharge: NZ$1779 Departures October 2020—April 2021 Day 1: Auckland Arrival transfer airport to The Hotel Britomart Day 2: Waiheke Island … Continue reading →
E-Bike West Coast Wilderness
Cycle through NZ’s untamed and wild West Coast by e-bike West Coast Wilderness Trail. Weaving through the dense rainforests, glacial rivers, lakes and wetlands, a series of smooth flowing off-road tracks takes you from Ross to Greymouth. Following the path … Continue reading →
Otago Rail Trail Biking Adventure
Four beautifully simple days together. Get on your bike, ride a stunning stretch of trail, eat some lunch, ride some more, eat again, go to sleep. Repeat. Let us handle the logistics so you can enjoy the simplicity of a … Continue reading →
Twin Coast Bike, Hike and Splash – TTB
Cycle the easy Twin Coast Trail and dip your wheel into both the Pacific and Tasman seas! Highlights Dip your wheel in the Pacific and Tasman Seas on the Twin Coast Trail Explore wetlands, native forest, rolling farmland & historic … Continue reading →
Hauraki Rail Trail
Follow the Hauraki Rail Trail along the Shorebird Coast, historic railway lines and towering gorges Highlights Cycle the flat, easy Hauraki Rail Trail between historic gold towns Ride the Miranda Shorebird Coast, internationally renowned for its migratory shorebirds Explore the … Continue reading →
Nelson: Bike, Hike and Sail
Discover the food, wine and great riding along the Great Taste Cycle Trail in the stunning Nelson/Tasman region Highlights Explore the Tasman Great Taste Cycle Trail’s stunning coastline and inland rides Experience the beautiful Queen Charlotte Sounds with a scenic … Continue reading →
South Island Family Cycle
Enjoy more than just cycling on this itinerary with the chance to soak in thermal hot pools, try your hand at curling on ice, discover superb mountain scenery, dramatic limestone landscapes, learn about the discovery of gold and explore small … Continue reading →
Alps to Ocean Classic (with optional e-bike)
Various Departures March – May 2021 & Oct 2021 to April 2022 Twinshare from $2295 pp Options & Supplements* New Year’s Supplement NZD$100 Bike Rental NZD$180 e-Bike Rental (subject to availability) NZD$480 Single Supplement – Limited to 2 per departure … Continue reading →
Alps to Ocean Biking Adventure with helicopter flight
This journey begins at Mount Cook Village, under the watchful eye of Aoraki Mount Cook. Our journey descends over 1,000 metres across 300 kilometres of trail and quiet country roads – making it the longest continuous ride in New Zealand. … Continue reading →
Queenstown Family Adventure
This action-packed trip delivers the perfect mix of family friendly activities like hiking, jet boating and biking, plus great company for the kids whilst the adults get to enjoy themselves too! The premium accommodation offers incredible views of Lake Wakatipu, … Continue reading →
Adventure in Paradise
Surrounded by the Humboldt and Richardson Mountains, Glenorchy is the perfect base for 5 days exploring some lesser known hiking trails. Spend 4 nights at Camp Glenorchy, New Zealand’s only net-zero energy accommodatio and the perfect base from which to … Continue reading →
South Island Multisport
On this two week trip, cover the ground (or water) by sea kayak, boat, bike, and on foot. Explore Abel Tasman National Park, cruise along the waters of Milford Sound, and take two wheels through the trails around Mt Cook. … Continue reading →
North Island Multisport
This itinerary includes biking through Karangahake Gorge and hiking the Tongariro Crossing — one of the world’s most famous one-day hikes — before jet boats and kayaks provide the transport along the Whanganui River. Day 1 Auckland Jump right into … Continue reading →
Treasures of the Baltic by Bike
While Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia share the same Baltic coastline, the contrasting unique characters of these three countries will become evident as you follow this incredibly scenic cycling route from Vilnius to Tallinn. From the three capitals – Vilnius, Riga … Continue reading →
Bike, Hike & Kayak Laos and Cambodia
If you’re looking for an active adventure exploring the depth and beauty of these two gems of Indochina, this is the journey for you. This trip combines the best of Laos and Cambodia into one compact, exciting itinerary—including kayaking, hiking, … Continue reading →
Bike, Hike & Kayak Vietnam
This is an all-encompassing active journey through some of Vietnam’s most scenic highlights. It begins with a memorable cruise on Red River delta, through the limestone cliff landscapes on a beautifully crafted wooden junk. From here be delighted by the … Continue reading →
Cuba Multisport: Bike, Kayak and Hike
Cycle, hike, snorkel, and kayak your way through Cuba’s incredible natural landscapes on a 12-day tour that gets up close to Mother Nature. Ride along the stunning Viñales Valley, passing mogotes (large limestone pincushion hills) and tobacco farms, explore the … Continue reading →
Cycle Cuba
Explore Cuba by bike, from vibrant Havana to Vinales and the quiet beauty of Soroa See Cuba from two wheels as you cycle around this laidback Caribbean island. Travel the colourful streets of Havana, along dusty roads past farms and … Continue reading →
Prince Edward Island By Bike
Cycle Green Gables and beyond on a highly-inclusive self-guided tour Welcome to Prince Edward Island! Canada’s smallest province, located on the Atlantic coast, is small in size and big in character. Best known for its friendly locals, red sand beaches, … Continue reading →
Camino – Sarria to Santiago
The last six days of the famous Camino pilgrimage route offers the chance for time starved travellers to walk the final 115kms into Santiago and gain a wonderful appreciation of the historic significance of the route. To be eligible for … Continue reading →
Food Lover’s Spanish Camino
This unique approach to a classic pilgrimage route combines a passion for good food and produce, with the incredible history of the trail crossing northern Spain. With fully supported day walks on the best sections of the pilgrimage trail paths, … Continue reading →
Walk The Full Spanish Camino
Traverse the centuries of time as well as Northern Spain on the medieval Camino de Santiago pilgrim trail. This trip offers a chance to walk the entire length of the Spanish Camino, from St Jean Pied de Port in France, … Continue reading →
Portugal Palaces and Coast Walk
Set amidst the pine-blanketed hills of the Serra de Sintra, Sintra has been plucked straight from a book of fairytales. Explore the former summer residences of the nobility of Portugal and its impressive Manor houses and national monuments over the … Continue reading →
Cycling in Sardinia
Plunge into the wild yet romantic beauty of south-western Sardinia and cycle beside empty beaches and sandunes in total freedom and at your own pace. The terrain is rugged in parts, with high cliffs ascending from the coast, interspersed with … Continue reading →
Cycle Amsterdam to Paris
Cycle your way from the canals of Amsterdam to the ‘City of Lights’, Paris, on this relaxed and diverse self guided cycling trip traversing three countries. Pedalling on a combination of dedicated cycle ways along canals and rivers, sleepy country … Continue reading →
Bavarian Beer Trail Cycle
Beer brewing traditions are an art form in Bavaria and the region of Franconia in the north of the state is home to a third of Germany’s breweries. Following the Beer Cycle Route in the Aisch Valley – which has … Continue reading →
Berlin to Copenhagen by Bike
The contrasts between northern Germany and Denmark don’t begin right at the border, but you’ll certainly notice them on this cross border cycling trip. From Germany’s vibrant, culturally rich and exciting capital of Berlin, you’ll cycle north to the coast … Continue reading →
Cycle Bordeaux to Toulouse
On this self guided cycle across southwest France, you will take in the important cities of Bordeaux and Toulouse and the many beautiful vineyards, valleys and villages in between. Cycling along canal ways, past locks and medieval towns, there is … Continue reading →
Cycle Puglia
Puglia in south eastern Italy encompasses the heel of Italy’s boot and is bordered by the sea on two sides (the Adriatic Sea in the east and the Ionian Sea to the southeast). The region is characterised by endless olive … Continue reading →
Cycle Prague to Vienna
The Greenways cycle trails are a collection of routes linking Prague and Vienna. This specially designed trip follows the section south of Prague, from the hills of Cesky Krumlov to the east along the Austrian border. Passing numerous medieval towns … Continue reading →
Blue Danube Cycle
Follow the winding route of the Danube and discover the lively history of one of Europe’s most important rivers. Cycle past Austrian castles, Benedictine monasteries and ancestral vineyards en route to Vienna. From Germany, follow the Danube eastward into Austria, … Continue reading →
Cycle Sicily
A stunning cycle in south-east Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean and renowned for its rich history and Baroque architecture. You will cycle through the Val di Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and discover the most fascinating cities … Continue reading →
Macedonia to Meteora Self Guided Cycle
North Macedonia and the region of Macedonia in northern Greece are ideal to explore by bike. Our carefully chosen route is equally challenging and rewarding, allowing you to discover an area rich in both culture and history. You’ll cycle along … Continue reading →
Provence Bike & Barge
Cycle through a revolving landscape from the wilderness of the Camargue where wild horses roam, to scenes of picturesque Provençal villages and vineyards that inspired Van Gogh and the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean. Explore the villages of Provence brimming … Continue reading →
Croatia to Albania Coastal Cycle
Cycle the glittering coastline of the Adriatic Sea on this wonderful gem-filled journey in the Balkans. Start in Croatia’s famous walled city of Dubrovnik, where you feel the Middle Ages at every turn of the stone fortress. Pass through the … Continue reading →
Ancient Venetian Empire by Bike
Explore three countries by bike in one week, cycling between Italy, Slovenia and Croatia. The history of the Republic of Venice provides the background to the entire trip. From the canal city of Venice, pass beaches, simple fishing villages and … Continue reading →
Portuguese Way: Cycle Lisbon to Porto
The Portuguese Road, or Caminho Portugués, is considered by many as the most spiritually connected pilgrimage route. Following the path St James’ body took to its resting place at the site of Santiago de Compostela in Spain, the quieter Portuguese … Continue reading →
Armenia to Georgia by Bike
Explore the South Caucasus at handlebar height Highlights Uncover the historic regional capitals of Yerevan and Tbilisi Cycle through the verdant Sno Valley & visit the majestic Gergeti Trinity Church Ride to the dramatically sited Khor Virap monastery in the … Continue reading →
Guatemalan Highlands – by mountain bike
Contact us for dates and prices One of the America’s best kept secrets: Guatemala is a mountain bike paradise home to incredible terrain, climate and culture. This 7 day itinerary follows old agricultural and trading routes of the Maya connecting … Continue reading →
Highlights of Northern Spain
With cosmopolitan cities and ancient villages, rolling vineyards and rugged mountains, Northern Spain is as unforgettable as it is eclectic. Experience the finest sights and tastes often missed by other travellers on a journey to the heart of this diverse … Continue reading →
Discover Portugal
From cosmopolitan Lisbon to Porto’s medieval cobblestone streets, and from the remote Douro Valley to Roman ruins and world-famous pilgrimage sites, this tour will give us a taste of the real Portugal, which still basks in the glow of ancient … Continue reading →
Cycle Southern Thailand
Take two wheels across Thailand’s south, a place of ancient jungle, imposing mountains, seductive coasts and incredible marine life. The road is laid out before you on this cycling adventure through Southern Thailand. Beginning in Bangkok with an overnight train, … Continue reading →
Bike, Hike & Kayak Northern Thailand
Explore Thailand’s backroads by bike, hike to remote villages and kayak through stunning natural landscapes. This active adventure begins with a ride in the countryside, enjoying the backroads and country lanes from Chiang Mai by bike. Next visit the highest … Continue reading →
Explore Spain and Portugal
Travel Spain and Portugal and discover their many highlights Follow an enticing trail of delicious tapas, avant-garde art, architectural triumphs and centuries-old culture on this incredible tour through Spain and Portugal. Travel the scenic route from Madrid to Barcelona, visiting … Continue reading →
Cycle the French Alps
Follow in the tracks of the Tour de France as you challenge yourself cycling legendary climbs of the French Alps. This trip takes you from the Jura Mountains to the mighty French Alps as you ride through the same terrain … Continue reading →
Portugal Real Food Adventure with Galicia
Savour spiced seafood, slow-cooked sausages and sweet wines aplenty. Uncover the flavours of Galicia and Portugal on this eight-day Real Food Adventure. Sample tender, paprika-infused octopus in Santiago de Compostela and learn how to whip up your own Galician seafood … Continue reading →
Cycle Cuba’s West
Feel the rum-filled breeze from the back of two wheels on this cycling adventure through Cuba’s west Experience Cuban culture from handle-bar height as you take a leisurely peddle through the capital’s colourful streets, cycle to the pristine shores of … Continue reading →
Portugal Highlights
Take to the road on this Self-Drive tour of Portugal. Breath-taking architecture, stunning cathedrals, an intriguing history, quaint and colourful fishing villages, Portugal has it all. Take your time driving through the lush vegetation of the Sintra region, meandering past … Continue reading →
Best of Portugal
Experience the best of Portugal as you discover Lisbon, Vilamoura, the Algarve, Oporto, Fatima and more. Let the melancholic trill of the Fado Guitar follow you from Portugal’s Manueline Lisbon to Baroque Oporto and the sun-soaked beaches of Vilamoura. Wander … Continue reading →
Porto, the Douro Valley and Salamanca
Discover World Heritage sites, extraordinary culture and tempting gastronomy on this special cruise. Explore Porto, a city between vineyards and the sea, Vila Real and the beautiful gardens of Solar de Mateus, Salamanca and its radiant beauty, the Porto wine … Continue reading →
Amsterdam to Bruges by bike and barge
The highlights of Holland and Belgium are uncovered on this unique cycling tour of the lowlands and North Sea coast. Beginning in Amsterdam, visit Gouda which is well known for its cheese and then cycle to the world famous windmills … Continue reading →
Croatia Bike & Sail
Cycle and Cruise to explore the charming islands of Southern Dalmatia. This unique Bike and Boat guided trip captures the highlights with an ideal balance of activity, culture and relaxation. Experience the beautiful island of Korcula with its picturesque old … Continue reading →
Delights of Andalusia
Travel to the heart of Andalusia and the Algarve. Along the Guadalquivir discover the town of Cordoba, which combines perfectly history and modernity. Visit Seville and its Alcázar palace, an astonishing mix of architectural styles. Then be carried away by … Continue reading →
Iberian Discovery & Morocco
This trip covers Spain, Morocco, and Portugal, concentrating on the southern part of the Iberian Peninsula. Two-night stays in the cities of Madrid, Lisbon, and Seville. Allow enough time for in-depth sightseeing, including visits to Madrid’s Prado Museum, Lisbon’s Jeronimos … Continue reading →
Best of the Camino de Santiago – Guided Tour
The Camino de Santiago, or Compostela Trail, has for centuries represented an important pilgrimage route from France, across the Pyrenees and the north of Spain to the tomb of St James in Santiago de Compostela. Following the most interesting sections … Continue reading →
Cycle Touring Vietnam
More than 30 million Vietnamese can’t be wrong – handle-bar height gives you the best view of Vietnam! Our cycling tours through this mesmerising country provide opportunities to meet the locals and experience their culture in a way that wouldn’t … Continue reading →