Catalonia, home to beautiful Barcelona and the sharp spires of the Pyrenees holds a lot to attract the everyday cyclist. Wedged between mountainous peaks, the beaches of Valencia and the border with France and Andorra, Catalonia is dotted with medieval villages, hidden coves and spellbinding coastal rides. Taking advantage of the Vias Verde network – converted narrow-gauge rail beds that take intrepid cyclists from the volcanic slopes of Garrotxa to the rocky shores of the Costa Brava – you can glide past centuries-old cathedrals and groves of ancient oaks from the solitude of a cycling path. Hitting the rugged coast you’ll find yourself among the landscapes and forms that inspired the surrealist works of the one and only Salvador Dali. Catalonia is known for its rich history, even richer cuisine and as training ground of some of the world‘s top cyclists.
Meet in Ripoll, high in Catalonia near the Pyrenees and easily accesible by train from Barcelona. Ripoll is home to a benedictine monastery with a colourful history. The Santa Maria de Ripoll monastery was built by Count William the Hairy in 879, and was the birthplace of famous troubadour Ponç de la Guàrdia. After descending to the sea through the cyclist friendly city of Girona, you will finish riding on the coast at Tossa del Mar. A final transfer will bring you back to Girona where your tour concludes and trains to Barcelona and other destinations are frequent.