Catalonia Biking Tour

Days 1–2: Girona, Volcanic Landscapes & Medieval Besalú

Spend two days exploring Girona, a vibrant university town renowned for its world-class culinary scene, rich history, and cobblestone streets lined with historic architecture.

Our opening ride ventures into the surreal Garrotxa Volcanic Park, cycling past ancient craters and basalt lava flows created by over 40 dormant volcanoes. The route concludes at Can Ginebreda, an extraordinary outdoor sculpture park nestled in a pine forest, featuring the whimsical and provocative stonework of Catalan artist Xicu Cabanyes.

On Day 2, ride through the countryside toward medieval Besalú, a pivotal town in Catalan history famous for its iconic 12th-century fortified bridge spanning the Fluvià River. Take time to explore its arcaded squares, medieval synagogue ruins, and rare 11th-century Jewish mikveh. In the afternoon, enjoy a private guided walking tour of Girona to discover its ancient Roman origins and world-famous, remarkably preserved Jewish Quarter.

Lodgings (2 Nights): Hotel Ciutat de Girona**** — A stylish 4-star boutique hotel set right in the heart of the medieval center.

Days 3–5: The Costa Brava, Cork Forests & Rice Fields of Baix Empordà

In 1908, Girona journalist Ferran Agulló coined the term “Costa Brava” (“Wild Coast”) to describe this rugged coastline. Ride through surreal cork oak forests down to the Mediterranean, stopping for lunch by the water before arriving at your seaside hotel.

As you pedal into the Baix Empordà region on Day 4, cork forests give way to lush fruit orchards and historic rice fields. In La Bisbal d’Empordà, famous for its ceramic traditions, stop for coffee, pastries, and a visit to the Terracotta Ceramics Museum. Pass through picturesque medieval pueblos and sample dishes featuring the famed local Arròs del Molí de Pals rice before returning to the sea.

Lodgings
Night 3: Hotel Costa Brava*** — A charming 3-star property perched right along the sea.
Nights 4–5: Hotel Aigua Blava**** — A spectacular 4-star seaside retreat near Begur.

Day 5: Medieval Villages, Artisan Jams & Mas Oller Winery

Continue exploring the Baix Empordà, a region whose winemaking roots date back to 600 BC with the ancient Greeks. Cycle through remarkably preserved 6th-century BC stone villages like Ullastret and Pals, stopping in Torrent to sample over 110 varieties of handcrafted jams at the Museu de la Confitura. Cap off the day’s ride with an exclusive tour and tasting at Mas Oller—a 400-year-old family estate rescued and revived by Carlos Esteva, producing some of the highest-rated award-winning wines in the D.O. Empordà.

Days 6–8: Sant Pere de Rodes, Salvador Dalí & Coastal Fishing Villages

Cross the River Ter into an agrarian countryside dotted with quiet hamlets as you pedal toward the home region of Salvador Dalí. Ascend into the coastal range to tour the magnificent 10th-century Sant Pere de Rodes Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering sweeping views over the Mediterranean. Coast down to explore the classic white-washed fishing villages of the Costa Brava before transferring to Figueres. Explore the world-famous Dalí Theatre-Museum, enjoy an evening of tapas and nightlife in town, and celebrate your journey with a traditional farewell feast.

Lodging (2 Nights): Hotel Duran*** (or similar) in Figueres — A comfortable 3-star property in the lively town center, perfect for exploring local tapas bars and boutiques.