Spain – Catalonia: 10 Days of Exploration

Welcome to Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí and the entry point to the Alt Empordà. This region offers quiet, scenic roads and charming rural villages. Today’s ride is a gentle warm-up loop to Llers and a nearby wine village, where a local lunch awaits. In the evening, we’ll dine at the hotel’s restaurant.

Elevation Gain: 320 m

Distance: 25 km

Hotel: Mas Falgarona, Figueres

We cycle a scenic loop through the Alt Empordà, passing a hilltop sanctuary near Terrades, and continuing to Castell de les Escaules and Pont de Molins on well-paved, quiet roads. A longer option includes Darnius and the Pantà de Boadella reservoir. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided visit to the Dalí Museum, a surrealist experience as eccentric and captivating as the artist himself.

Distance: 44 km / 57 km

Elevation Gain: 520 m / 670 m

Today’s ride leads to Peralada, a charming wine town. You can explore the old quarter, visit the 12th-century Romanesque cloister, or tour the newly opened Celler Peralada and castle winery. From there, ride on to Roses, a beachside resort, then through Empuriabrava with its canals, and into the Aiguamolls d’Empordà bird sanctuary. We’ll stop for lunch in Castell d’Empúries. Adventurous riders can continue to Cadaqués, a secluded fishing village known for its striking coastline.

Distance: 50 km / 88 km

Elevation Gain: 270 m / 1,390 m

Heading south, we cycle toward the coast, passing through the Baix Empordà region to reach the archaeological site of Empúries, where the ruins of Greek and Roman settlements overlook the sea. Explore mosaics, public baths, temples, and amphitheatres. The ride concludes along a stunning seaside path to Hostal Empúries, where the beach and water sports await.

Distance: 37 km

Elevation Gain: 175 m

Hotel: Hostal Empuries, L’Escala

Take a relaxed morning at the beach before we ride through the medieval town of Torroella de Montgrí, with views of its hilltop castle. After lunch in Palau-Sator, we continue to Calella de Palafrugell, a coastal village with a superb hotel. In the afternoon, you may enjoy a scenic walk to the Cap Roig Gardens, followed by a seaside dinner.

Distance: 40 km

Elevation Gain: 300 m

Hotel: Hotel Sant Roc, Calella de Palafrugell

Today is a rest day. Spend it as you wish: exploring the village, lounging on the beach, reading on the hotel terrace, or enjoying the Mediterranean coast.

This ride offers some of the trip’s most breathtaking coastal views. The route includes short, steep sections en route to the medieval towns of Begur and Pals. Back in Calella, you may choose a short stroll (1.9 km) to Cap Roig, or opt for a longer coastal hike through nearby villages and beaches.

Distance (Cycling): 44 km

Elevation Gain (Cycling): 820 m

Our final ride takes us to Girona, a popular base for professional cyclists. Along the way, stop at the Gala Dalí Castle in Púbol, followed by a scenic climb over the Mare de Déu dels Àngels, then a descent into Girona. We’ll enjoy a guided walking tour of the city, while dinner is on your own tonight, with several excellent restaurants to choose from.

Distance: 40 km / 88 km

Elevation Gain: 460 m / 760 m

Hotel: Nord 1901, Girona

Spend the day discovering Girona. Enjoy a walking tour, lunch at Café Fàbrica (owned by former pro cyclist Christian Meier), and a final night featuring a wine tasting and farewell dinner.

Depart at your leisure. High-speed trains from Girona to Barcelona take about 30 minutes and run frequently (roughly 25 times daily).