Who hasn't heard of Girona? A true paradise for cyclists, this city and its surroundings are now a pilgrimage site for many! From professional cyclists to amateurs, Girona is becoming a must-see for cycling enthusiasts.

Based on our various experiences and stays in these Catalan regions, it seemed relevant to us to share with you our favorite routes and places.

Why Girona as the next cycling destination?

If you're looking for the perfect cycling destination, Girona is a must! The city and its surrounding area are popular with both amateurs and many professional cyclists! Here, cycling is part of everyday life, and it's impossible to walk a few meters without seeing another cyclist.

Girona offers an exceptional setting, combining impeccable roads, varied landscapes, and terrain suitable for all levels. Whether you're a road cyclist, gravel rider, or mountain biker, you'll find routes to suit your tastes here. From perfectly paved roads to gravel paths winding through fields, there's something for everyone. & Forests, mountainous landscapes or even seascapes, there is something for everyone.

Another important point, and one that is becoming increasingly rare these days, is the respect motorists show towards cyclists. Without a doubt, the 1.5-meter distance will be respected, and they will wait for the opportune moment to overtake!

The city is full of specialist shops and cycling cafes where you can chat with other enthusiasts. Cycling passion at its peak!

Beyond cycling, Girona is a destination that captivates with its rich heritage. Its old town, with its picturesque alleyways and historic architecture, is a true delight to explore. The surrounding area is equally appealing: between charming villages and its proximity to the Costa Brava, there are plenty of opportunities for discovery.

Plenty to keep you busy on your days off. And don't neglect them, they're just as important as the days spent in the saddle!

Spain and Catalonia are also known for their gastronomy and affordable prices. Girona is no exception; you'll find plenty of restaurants and grocery stores that will delight your taste buds. We can already picture you returning with your ham under your arm.

Finally, with a wide range of accommodation options, Girona is an accessible and pleasant destination.

Whether you are a seasoned cyclist or a casual enthusiast, you will find everything you need here for an unforgettable experience on two wheels!

What is the best time to go cycling in Girona?

Catalonia is synonymous with warmth and mild temperatures year-round. It's no secret that this is one of the reasons why so many professional cyclists and triathletes have chosen to settle there.

Girona is one of the perfect destinations in the off-season. Not to mention the almost constant sunshine throughout the year, you will find "spring-like" temperatures during the months of March-April and October-November, ranging between 15 and 25°C.

In winter, the temperature very rarely drops below 10°C, this can be one of the solutions to find mild temperatures and escape the sometimes very cold winter!

Summer is for those who don't mind the heat! But with all the possible alternatives, between the forest and the sea nearby, you'll always find a way to bring the temperature down.

Our favorite routes!

Besides wanting to show you all the advantages of this region, the main idea of ​​this blog post is to share our favorite routes with you!

Whether on roads or gravel, here is a selection of 4 routes that will delight you!

And since we know that you are also big coffee lovers, we have chosen to start each outing with a "coffee stop", in particularly iconic locations!

Route - Els Angels

We all know that car journeys can be particularly long and not very restful! The day after such a trip, we often prefer a shorter outing to explore the area and avoid putting too much strain on our bodies! This one ticks all those boxes!

Coffee start - Espresso Mafia: A must-visit for coffee lovers, you won't be the only cyclist sitting around an espresso, cappuccino and cinnamon rolls!

After this caffeine and carbohydrate boost, it's time to get on the bike. Head south, out of the city and onto the beautiful rolling roads of the region. The first climb comes after 10km and feels like a warm-up. You'll be pushing hard for 5km, with an average gradient of 4%, to reach the summit at Santa Pellaia.

This is followed by a descent to reach the beautiful village of Sant Sadurní de l'Heura. Take the time to stop and explore the medieval streets by bike – a truly refreshing change of scenery.

Now for the second climb of the ride, the Els Angels climb! This is Girona's iconic ascent (in both directions). Same story: you can show off your climbing skills on a superb, quiet road where you're more likely to encounter a professional cyclist than a car. At the summit is the Els Angels sanctuary, a place of pilgrimage and stargazing.

Now all that remains is to head down towards Girona. The road consists of a series of bends through the forest, without a single bump!

Gravel - Route inspired by the Sea Otter

The first ride was rather short, now it's time for a more demanding route. And for that, we're changing bikes: wider frame, larger tires, no doubt about it, we're on a gravel bike.

Coffee start - La Fabrica: Girona's second must-visit spot, whether for coffee or its delicious dishes and pastries! A little tip: you can just as easily go before your outing for a hearty breakfast, or upon your return for a well-deserved meal! Whether you're on the steps or seated at a table, you'll undoubtedly want to come back every day!

Girona rhymes with Gravel! And here, we are talking about "real" gravel, on rolling tracks, crossing songs, forests and hills, without regretting leaving your mountain bike at home.

Today's route is inspired by the legendary Sea Otter Europe race! We head north of Girona, then east towards the coast. The first 60km are very fast-paced; you'll be surprised to find yourself riding at over 30km/h on incredible gravel tracks through fields and birch forests. Be careful, it's easy to get carried away by the speed: conserve your energy, the real challenges are coming.

If you feel the need, don't hesitate to refuel in Palafruell, the last town where you can resupply. The final 60km are much more challenging: simply put, you'll be tackling 1700m of elevation gain on this section, alternating between climbs and descents. Nothing insurmountable, but it will undoubtedly take its toll.

You'll be speechless at the landscapes encountered in the Gavarres massif, with views of the sea and seemingly endless forests. A final, rather steep descent will bring you back to Girona and the tarmac, for a well-deserved meal and rest!

90% gravel tracks, versus only 10% tarmac, what more could you ask for?

Gravel - For a more accessible route, or when you have less time

No need to go on 100km routes to have fun in Girona! This is one of the main advantages of this region, the trails reach right into the city itself, and you will very quickly find yourself alone traversing the trails of your dreams.

Head west of Girona for this alternative route, a slightly less well-known area. The main challenges are in the middle of the route, with numerous steep climbs where you'll find yourself at the very end of the saddle, pulling hard on your handlebars! Again, nothing insurmountable, though, as the route remains very rideable!

Route - Sant Hilari

Back on the road, for those who don't want to see the gravel, this time with a few more kilometers!

Coffee start - Tramuntana: Located right next to the iconic red Eiffel Bridge, Tramuntana offers specialty coffees that will delight even the most dedicated coffee lovers. Cozy, modern, and intimate, it's the perfect spot for an inspired ride.

This 105-kilometer loop takes you into the heart of rural Catalonia, far from the busy roads around Girona. From the very first kilometers, you leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and gradually immerse yourself in more wooded and hilly landscapes. The climb to Sant Hilari Sacalm is the highlight of this ride: a steady, challenging but not extreme ascent that winds through a dense forest typical of the foothills of the Guilleries massif. Up there, the atmosphere changes. The calm, the altitude, the light—everything invites you to slow down and savor the moment.

After reaching the summit, the descent towards Girona follows a pleasant, winding road, offering unobstructed views of the surrounding countryside. Less well-known than other routes starting from Girona, this trail to Sant Hilari offers a more intimate, almost secluded experience.
This is an ideal loop for those looking to get off the beaten track and immerse themselves in a wilder, more authentic Catalonia.

Why not take advantage of a sporting event to discover Girona and its region?

What if you planned your next stay in Girona around a sporting event? It's clearly one of the best ways to soak up the cycling atmosphere that reigns here.

Of May 1st to 4th, 2025, La Traka Once again, hundreds of gravel enthusiasts from around the world came together to ride the wild and beautiful trails around Girona. With distances ranging from 50 to 560 km, it's an event that caters to all levels.The 2025 edition has just ended, and what an atmosphere! If you missed it this year, don't worry: we're already planning to meet again for... La Traka 2026 !
👉 thetraka.com

Another unmissable event: the Sea Otter Europe, XXL cycling festival which will take place this year from September 19-21, 2025. On the menu: a bike show with the biggest brands, equipment tests, competitions (gravel, road, mountain biking...), entertainment and food trucks... in short, everything to have a great time with fellow enthusiasts, alone or with friends!
👉 seaottereurope.com

Whether you come to participate or simply enjoy the atmosphere, it's also a great excuse to explore Girona and its region from a different perspective.

Ready to pack your bags?

Girona is much more than just a cycling destination. It's an atmosphere, a community, an endless playground for cycling enthusiasts. Whether you come to climb, ride hard on the gravel paths, or simply enjoy a good coffee in the sun between rides, everything is in place for an unforgettable stay. And between the beautiful scenery, the Catalan culture, the delicious food, and the warm welcome, we bet you'll already be dreaming of your next trip before you've even left the city. So, shall we meet in Girona?

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TIPS

Our favorite cafes

• La Fàbrica — @lafabricagirona
• Espresso Mafia — @espressomafia
• Tramuntana — @tramuntana_girona
• Bali Coffee & Brunch — @balicoffeeandbrunch