SpainGIRONA & COSTA BRAVA
Guided Cycling Holiday
SpainGirona & Costa Brava
Guided Cycling Tour
Length: 7 Days
Level: 
Price: €1,780 EUR
This fully supported cycling holiday explores the best of the Girona province in the Catalonia region of Spain. We cycle along quiet country lanes through beautiful scenery, including three natural parks, as we head north along the Costa Brava. We visit historic towns, stunning coastal coves and beaches, and we pass the scenery that so inspired artists like Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí.
The seven night tour begins in the stylish city of Girona and finishes in Dalí's home town of Figueres. In between we stay on the Costa Brava in beautiful boutique hotels and we immerse ourselves in the history and culture of the region. We visit the Medieval villages of Pals, Peratallada and Begur, the Greco-Roman ruins of Empuries and the citadel of Roses. We get charmed by the stunningly picturesque fishing villages of Cadaques and Sa Tuna, and we sample the excellent food and wine that is typical of the region.
This tour is designed as a leisurely cycling holiday and is suitable for riders of all levels, with different route options depending on how far you wish to ride. Below you can find a detailed itinerary, and click on the tabs to see more highlights, as well as all the practical information about the holiday.
We also run a self-guided version of this tour, which has some more mountainous route options.
Day 1 - Girona
We will pick you up from Girona airport or train station and transfer you to our hotel in the historic center. Girona began to take its modern form 2000 years ago, when the Romans built a citadel there.
Since then it has been strategically important as the first major settlement across the Pyrenees. Both Charlemagne and Napoleon made capturing the city a key part of their plans to invade Spain. The city walls and winding streets of the old town are reminders of this impressive past.
In Girona we carry out the bike fitting and have our welcome meeting. Afterwards you can explore some of the excellent tapas bars in the city!
Since then it has been strategically important as the first major settlement across the Pyrenees. Both Charlemagne and Napoleon made capturing the city a key part of their plans to invade Spain. The city walls and winding streets of the old town are reminders of this impressive past.
In Girona we carry out the bike fitting and have our welcome meeting. Afterwards you can explore some of the excellent tapas bars in the city!
Colorful Girona
Day 2 - Ter River & Begur
The first day in the saddle begins by leaving Girona on a picturesque cycling route alongside the Ter River. We ride through charming villages and beautiful countryside on a route which is mostly flat or gently rolling.
We pass between fields of rice (which is used in the local paella) as we ride along quiet country lanes. Towards the end of the day, we get our first sight of the rocky and rugged Costa Brava (which literally translates as the 'Wild Coast').
Another highlight of the ride is the town of Pals - which includes one of the best preserved Medieval centers in all of Spain. We stop there for lunch, giving you plenty of time to explore the beautiful narrow streets either by bike or on foot, and soak up the atmosphere of a place which has remained largely unchanged for hundreds of years.
Our destination is the historic village of Begur.
Shorter Route: 52km (32 miles)
Longer Route: 68km (42 miles)
We pass between fields of rice (which is used in the local paella) as we ride along quiet country lanes. Towards the end of the day, we get our first sight of the rocky and rugged Costa Brava (which literally translates as the 'Wild Coast').
Another highlight of the ride is the town of Pals - which includes one of the best preserved Medieval centers in all of Spain. We stop there for lunch, giving you plenty of time to explore the beautiful narrow streets either by bike or on foot, and soak up the atmosphere of a place which has remained largely unchanged for hundreds of years.
Our destination is the historic village of Begur.
Cycle Routes:
Shorter Route: 52km (32 miles)
Longer Route: 68km (42 miles)
Medieval Peratallada
Day 3 - Medieval Villages of Catalonia
The route today really explores the unique history of the Girona region. Early in the ride we visit the historic village of Peratallada, which grew to prominence in the 13th century when Catalan traders dominated the Mediterranean. It's so well preserved that it has been used as a Medieval backdrop in several films and television series.
We also visit the ancient Iberian city of Ullastret, while cycling along extremely quiet and scenic lanes; lined with orchards and arable farmland.
The ride ends in the town of L'Escala where we stay in an impressive Spa hotel situated right next to the beach. The hotel is also just a short walk from the ruins of the ancient Greco-Roman city of Empuries. Founded over 2,500 years, Empuries was once the most important city in Northern Spain.
It only began to decline after Barcelona was founded as a Roman colony under the Emperor Augustus. Today you can see the ruins of both the Greek and Roman sites, which were built alongside each other. You can easily compare the different architectural styles of the two ancient super-powers!
Shorter Route: 46km (29 miles)
Longer Route: 57km (35 miles)
We also visit the ancient Iberian city of Ullastret, while cycling along extremely quiet and scenic lanes; lined with orchards and arable farmland.
The ride ends in the town of L'Escala where we stay in an impressive Spa hotel situated right next to the beach. The hotel is also just a short walk from the ruins of the ancient Greco-Roman city of Empuries. Founded over 2,500 years, Empuries was once the most important city in Northern Spain.
It only began to decline after Barcelona was founded as a Roman colony under the Emperor Augustus. Today you can see the ruins of both the Greek and Roman sites, which were built alongside each other. You can easily compare the different architectural styles of the two ancient super-powers!
Cycle Routes:
Shorter Route: 46km (29 miles)
Longer Route: 57km (35 miles)
One of the Cove Beaches of Begur
Day 4 - Aiguamolls & Cap de Creus Peninsula
The routes today continue heading north along the Costa Brava. The highlight is the ride through the spectacular Cap de Creus peninsula - the most easterly point of mainland Spain.
Before reaching the Cap de Creus we follow an off-road cycle route through the Aiguamolls Natural Park, a popular spot with birdwatchers, and we stop for refreshments in the delightful town of Castello d'Empuries.
We continue to the town of Roses, where you can visit the ancient citadel, before entering the Cap de Creus Natural Park, which has stunning views of the coastline throughout.
The day ends in the town of Cadaqués, where we stay for two nights. A former home of Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso and Marcel Duchamp, it isn't hard to see why the beautiful buildings and dramatic coastline captured the imagination of some of Spain's greatest artists.
Shorter Route: 34km (21 miles miles)
Longer Route: 52km (32 miles)
Before reaching the Cap de Creus we follow an off-road cycle route through the Aiguamolls Natural Park, a popular spot with birdwatchers, and we stop for refreshments in the delightful town of Castello d'Empuries.
We continue to the town of Roses, where you can visit the ancient citadel, before entering the Cap de Creus Natural Park, which has stunning views of the coastline throughout.
The day ends in the town of Cadaqués, where we stay for two nights. A former home of Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso and Marcel Duchamp, it isn't hard to see why the beautiful buildings and dramatic coastline captured the imagination of some of Spain's greatest artists.
Cycle Routes
Shorter Route: 34km (21 miles miles)
Longer Route: 52km (32 miles)
The Cap de Creus peninsula has beautiful scenery for riding
Day 5 - Cadaqués
The ride today is optional, and so you can choose to explore Cadaqués or relax on the stunning beaches here if you prefer.
The cycling route explores more of the Cap de Creus peninsula, heading first to Port Lligat, where you can see Dalí's former home - which is now a museum supposedly unchanged since he lived there. And it is as quirky and unusual as you would expect from a surrealist!
The ride then continues to the lighthouse at the end of the peninsula, with fantastic views of the coast throughout the entire ride.
If you wish to cycle even further, the longer route climbs to the Monastery of St Pere de Rodes, which sits on top of a hill overlooking the northern side of the peninsula.
Shorter Route: 24km (15 miles)
Longer Route: 47km (30 miles)
The cycling route explores more of the Cap de Creus peninsula, heading first to Port Lligat, where you can see Dalí's former home - which is now a museum supposedly unchanged since he lived there. And it is as quirky and unusual as you would expect from a surrealist!
The ride then continues to the lighthouse at the end of the peninsula, with fantastic views of the coast throughout the entire ride.
If you wish to cycle even further, the longer route climbs to the Monastery of St Pere de Rodes, which sits on top of a hill overlooking the northern side of the peninsula.
Cycle Routes:
Shorter Route: 24km (15 miles)
Longer Route: 47km (30 miles)
The Artistic Village of Cadaqués
Day 6 - Figueres
The final day in the saddle leaves the coast behind and heads inland to the town of Figueres. We ride through the Emporda wine region, following picturesque rolling lanes through vineyards, fruit orchards and olive groves.
On arriving in Figueres we visit the town's large hilltop castle - which is claimed to be the largest intact fortress in Europe. It was built in the 18th century to try to help to defend Spain against French aggression, but was unable to prevent the invasion by Napoleon around fifty years after its construction.
And we stop for lunch in the historic center, close to the Dali Theatre and Museum, which holds the largest collection of the artist's works. This is a must visit for fans of surrealism or simply art in general.
Shorter Route: 38km (23 miles)
Longer Route: 54km (34 miles)
On arriving in Figueres we visit the town's large hilltop castle - which is claimed to be the largest intact fortress in Europe. It was built in the 18th century to try to help to defend Spain against French aggression, but was unable to prevent the invasion by Napoleon around fifty years after its construction.
And we stop for lunch in the historic center, close to the Dali Theatre and Museum, which holds the largest collection of the artist's works. This is a must visit for fans of surrealism or simply art in general.
Cycle Route:
Shorter Route: 38km (23 miles)
Longer Route: 54km (34 miles)
Dali Museum, Figueres
Day 7 - Departure / Extensions
After breakfast, the cycling holiday comes to an end. We can help to arrange extra nights for you to stay in Catalonia to discover even more about this great region.
Popular extensions include Barcelona, the Costa Brava and the Pyrenees mountains.
If you prefer not to extend your stay, we will transfer you to Girona airport or train station in time for your onward journey.
To find out more information about this holiday; including practical information, prices, dates and more tour highlights; return to the top of the page and click on the various tabs.
Popular extensions include Barcelona, the Costa Brava and the Pyrenees mountains.
If you prefer not to extend your stay, we will transfer you to Girona airport or train station in time for your onward journey.
To find out more information about this holiday; including practical information, prices, dates and more tour highlights; return to the top of the page and click on the various tabs.
Barcelona is one option to extend your holiday
This tour explores the best of Girona and the Costa Brava. We visit spectacular Medieval villages and ancient ruins. We stay in luxury hotels housed in beautiful historic buildings.
We ride through Natural Parks, coastal scenery and tranquil arable farmland, and to refuel we enjoy some of the best of Catalan and Spanish cuisine.
These are just a few of the many highlights of the tour. Check out more in the photo album below:
We ride through Natural Parks, coastal scenery and tranquil arable farmland, and to refuel we enjoy some of the best of Catalan and Spanish cuisine.
These are just a few of the many highlights of the tour. Check out more in the photo album below:
Pals
A picturesque Medieval village which makes for a great lunch stop.
Begur Beach
These charming cove beaches are dotted all along the Costa Brava.
Begur Castle
The view of the Costa Brava from Begur castle.
Ullastret Iberian Village
The remains of this ancient village date back to before Roman times. The Iberian people were known as fierce warriors, who gradually became civilized through contact with the Greeks and the wider Mediterranean world.
Cap de Creus - Costa Brava
Literally meaning the 'Wild Coast' - the Costa Brava is home to beautiful fishing villages and hidden coves. Cadaqués is one of the best known.
Port Lligat
The house on the left is the former residence of the artist Salvador Dalí. It is now a museum which is unchanged from when he lived there, and is suitably quirky and imaginative.
Cobbled Medieval Street
Whether you cycle or walk, you can't help but soak in the atmosphere.
Dali Museum - Figueres
Figueres is best known as being the home town of Salvador Dali. This museum in the city center is constructed in suitably surrealist style.
Cadaqués
The fishing town of Cadaqués is a feast of colours, with picturesque buildings and a spectacular coastline.
Castello d'Empuries
The delightful town of Castello d'Empuries was notable for its significant Jewish quarter during the Middle Ages.
Peratallada
The colorful square in the village center.
Roses Citadel
This large citadel was built to protect the town of Roses from attack by pirates. It enclosed the earlier Ancient Greek town of Rodes, named after the Greek island of Rhodes from which the colonists had originated (and which later became known as Roses)
Girona
The colorful river-front of Girona backs on to the winding streets of the old town. Thanks to its strategic location, Girona has been fought over for thousands of years.
Ter River
We follow a cycle route alongside this river, which is the largest in the Emporda region.
Emporda Vineyards
Vineyards are dotted around the region and produce excellent reds, as well as sweet dessert wines.
Empuries
Ancient Roman and Greek town that was a major trading post around the 3rd and 2nd centuries BCE. It began to decline when the new port of Barcino (Barcelona) was founded in the late 1st century BCE.
Rice Fields
The rice from these fields is used to make the local paellas.
Cove Beaches
Tranquil cove beaches line the Cap de Creus peninsula.
Sant Pere de Rodes Monastery
This monastery is climbed to as an optional extension on Day 6. Legend states that it was founded by monks who fled Italy from the Vandals, while carrying the remains of St Peter (Sant Pere in Catalan).
Medieval Village
Girona province is full of small villages dating from Medieval times. An era during which Catalonia really began to develop its distinct regional identity.
Included
- ✔ 6 Nights Accommodation (see the Hotels section for more details)
- ✔ 11 meals: 6 breakfasts & 5 lunches (all with drinks inlcuded)
- ✔ Bicycle Hire (Hybrid or e-bike) (see below for details)
- ✔ Luggage transferred between hotels
- ✔ Vehicle Support on the routes
- ✔ Experienced guide cycling the routes and explaining places of interest
- ✔ Detailed information pack
Not Included:
- ❌ Flights
- ❌ Tour Extensions
- ❌ Travel Insurance
Bicycles
Bicycle hire is included in the cost of the holiday. We recommend our lightweight hybrid bikes or e-bikes for this tour.
If you prefer we can also provide road bikes, although the routes do change slightly for these to avoid a couple of gravel sections.
More details about our bikes can be found on our bicycles page. The exact model depends on availability, so please get in touch if you would like more information. All of our bikes come with helmets and handlebar bags if required, as well as a Cycle Fiesta water bottle.
More details about our bikes can be found on our bicycles page. The exact model depends on availability, so please get in touch if you would like more information. All of our bikes come with helmets and handlebar bags if required, as well as a Cycle Fiesta water bottle.
Difficulty Level & Roads
We rate this tour as between easy and medium difficulty if you ride the shorter routes. The shorter routes are mostly flat or gently rolling.
The longer routes have a few more hills and we classify these routes as being a medium level. You can choose whether to do the shorter or longer ride on any given day. In any case, the route lengths are more suggestions than strict guidelines: the tour is fully supported so you can get in the van whenever you feel like it!
We hate cycling alongside traffic, and so ride on a combination of quiet paved roads and cycling greenways. The majority of the route is paved, but there are some light gravel sections. These are not technical and are very enjoyable to ride, even if you are more used to riding on road.
Find out more about our tour difficulty levels.
The longer routes have a few more hills and we classify these routes as being a medium level. You can choose whether to do the shorter or longer ride on any given day. In any case, the route lengths are more suggestions than strict guidelines: the tour is fully supported so you can get in the van whenever you feel like it!
We hate cycling alongside traffic, and so ride on a combination of quiet paved roads and cycling greenways. The majority of the route is paved, but there are some light gravel sections. These are not technical and are very enjoyable to ride, even if you are more used to riding on road.
Find out more about our tour difficulty levels.
Arrival and Departure
The tour begins in Girona. Transfers are included from Girona airport or train station. If you are unable to get a flight there, then we recommend flying into either Barcelona airport and take the train to Girona. This takes less than an hour and runs roughly hourly throughout the day.
The holiday ends in Figueres. From here we transfer you back to Girona airport or train station. We can also transfer you to Perpignan in France, from there you can take fast trains to Avignon, Lyon, Paris and other destinations.
Please contact us if you would like any advice or more information regarding getting to and from the region.
The holiday ends in Figueres. From here we transfer you back to Girona airport or train station. We can also transfer you to Perpignan in France, from there you can take fast trains to Avignon, Lyon, Paris and other destinations.
Please contact us if you would like any advice or more information regarding getting to and from the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please browse through some of the frequently asked questions about this cycling tour. If you have any further questions, or would like any more information, please contact us and we will answer by email.
What is the weather like?
The Girona region is mostly dry and sunny throughout the year, with little rain. This tour is most enjoyable in Spring (March - July) and Autumn or Fall (September to November), when the temperatures tend to be very pleasant for cycling.
There is always the possibility of getting caught in a shower though, so we recommend to bring a rain jacket, just in case.
Should I do the longer or shorter routes?
This depends entirely on you! The longer and shorter routes all start and finish at the same place, and so you can decide on any given day which you would prefer to do. There is no need to commit until the day of the ride itself.
On the longer routes you see more and are able to visit more places, while the shorter routes are more relaxing and ideal if you like to take your time and go at a slower pace.
If you would like to visit the extra towns and monuments on the longer routes, but are worried about the distances, then we recommend hiring an e-bike, which will give you more flexibility.
Can I extend the tour?
Yes, we would be happy to arrange any tour extensions for you. The most popular option is to spend extra nights in
Barcelona.
But we can also help you to extend the trip if you wish to spend more time on the Costa Brava, or to visit anywhere
else in Spain or France.
Can non-cyclists come on the trip?
Absolutely! Non-cyclists are more than welcome.
Although cycling is a big part of the holiday, we also do a lot off the bike. Usually non-cyclists ride in the support vehicle and can explore the various towns and villages along the route.
How big are the groups on your tour?
We usually limit the groups to a maximum of 10 people. We think that smaller groups provide for a more personal experience, as well as enabling to book more easily in some of our favourite restaurants.
Who is leading the tour?
All of our guided tours are led personally by the founders of Cycle Fiesta - Ian & Lucia.
See our about us page for more information.
What are the meals like?
Lunches are taken in restaurants along the route and consist of a three course menu with local specialities. All drinks are also included.
The three evening meals are each different. In Girona we enjoy many different plates in traditional tapas style. In Begur, we take a high quality fine dining menu. While in Figueres
we visit one of the top local restaurants for a tasting menu.
We believe that the gastronomy is a key part of the local culture, and we have endeavoured to find excellent restaurants to show you the best of Catalan and Spanish cuisine.
Why book with us?
We are a small and independent company who are locally based, which offers several advantages:
- We have a lot personal experience of all of our tours, which have been refined over many years. We believe we are genuine experts in the regions where we run tours, and we are also close at hand to offer support and a personalized service.
- We are flexible and can tailor our itineraries to suit your requirements.
- We have low overheads. We don't spend money on advertising and don't use third party agents. We only sell our tours through this website.
By cutting out the middle man, you can be sure that more of what you pay is
being spent on the important things: like hotels, equipment and other services.
- We are a registered and fully bonded tour operator in accordance with EU regulations.
Can I do this as a private guided tour?
Yes, we can run this as a private tour for groups of six or more people. Please get in contact with us to discuss dates and any changes you would like to make to the itinerary.
What is your cancellation policy?
The full cancellation policy can be found in our terms and conditions.
Hotel Nord 1901
This charming 4-star hotel is situated in the heart of Girona, just a short distance from the cathedral and impressive city walls. It has large rooms and a nice swimming pool area for relaxing.
Mas Comangou
We stay for two nights in this beautiful 4-star hotel, which is housed in a converted farmhouse. It is situated on the edge of Begur within easy walking distance of the village center. The historic building of the hotel and the colorful gardens create a tranquil backdrop.
Hotel Voramar
An excellent 4-star hotel situated right on the coast in the historic center of L'Escala. From here you can easily visit the beach and sample delicacies in nearby restaurants, including the famous local anchovies.
The rooms are comfortable and stylishly decorated.
The rooms are comfortable and stylishly decorated.
Hotel Blaumar
We spend two nights in this small 3-star boutique hotel in Cadaqués. It's situated close to both the center and the cove beaches around the town, making it a great base for exploring.
The hotel is beautifully decorated in traditional white and blue style and has comfortable rooms and a nice garden and swimming pool area.
The hotel is beautifully decorated in traditional white and blue style and has comfortable rooms and a nice garden and swimming pool area.
Hotel Pirineos
This 4-star hotel has comfortable rooms and is located in the center of Figueres. It is a short walk from both the Dali museum and theatre, and also from the lively Rambla boulevard.
To find out more about how we select our hotels, please see our accommodation page.
| Date | Price (per person)¹ | Single Supplement | Bike Hire | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st - 7th June 2025 | Fully Booked | Fully Booked | Included | |
| Other Dates² | - | - | - |
¹Price is based on two people sharing a double or twin room. If you would prefer to stay in a single room, the single supplement is applicable.
To reserve a place on the tour, click the button above and complete the reservation form. We will then get back to you within 24 hours to confirm the reservation, and to arrange for payment of the deposit.
For more details on the booking process, please check out our Reservations page.
²Other Dates
Groups of eight people or more contact us to arrange a private guided tour starting on any date. Similar tours that you may be interested in:
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