Day 1, Sunday 07 September 2025

Welcome to Barcelona

Feel free to arrive at any time throughout the day. It’s only a short 10min shuttle to our Barcelona airport hotel.

Our team will be waiting to meet you. After checking in, we'll help you put your bikes together so we can hit the ground running.

There’s plenty of free time this afternoon. How about a swim in the large outdoor hotel pool or just simply relax.

Tonight, we've booked the hotel restaurant. Let's introduce the team and talk through the plan for the next few days.

Welcome to Spain. It's fantastic to have you here.

/ Accommodation: Barcelona Airport Hotel
/ Meals Included: Welcome Dinner

P.S. If you arrive earlier than today, we recommend visiting Barcelona. It’s a beautiful city. Well worth a couple of extra days. We are happy to help with any extra accommodation needed.

Day 2, Monday 08 September 2025

Barcelona to Girona, Spain

We leave Barcelona after breakfast. It's a short 1hr drive to the outskirts of Girona which is undoubtedly one of Europe's key cycling destinations.

Did you know that, at last count, there are almost 100 professional cyclists living in Girona! With a fantastic climate, varied terrain and excellent roads, it is a no-brainer for foreign cyclists moving to Europe to set up base in Girona. The 'varied terrain' comes in the form of Les Guilleries (1200m) whose curving mountain roads surround the city! No ride is ever complete without a good coffee stop, right? Girona has many excellent coffee shops and post-ride we would like to take you to our favourite where all the pros hang out.

There are two rides to choose from - 85km and 60km. Short but memorable. Both rides lead us all the way to our Girona hotel, which is where we are staying for the next three nights.

We start our ride from the beautiful village of Saint Hilari Sacalm. After a gentle 30km forest descent, we tackle our first but short climb of the day up to Les Serres. With quiet roads and spectacular views of the ranges, it’s a great way to kick off the tour.

Team Mac, you will head directly to Girona for a guided walking tour showcasing the medieval charm of the town, its ancient fortresses, cobblestone laneways and picturesque squares.

Tonight, enjoy a dinner together. Let's see if we can attract a few Kiwi pros to join us.

/ Accommodation: Hotel Ciutat de Girona, Girona
/ Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 3, Tuesday 09 September 2025

Girona to Mediterranean Coast

Today you will cycle a fantastic ride through the local villages south of Girona towards the Mediterranean coastline. There are four climbs to contend with and they all range between 5-7km in length and 6% average grades.

After our first climb of the day, we descend to the stunning coastal town of Tossa de Mar. With a medieval castle overlooking the beaches and restaurants, it’s a place to relax and soak it all in. After a quick lunch stop, we have approx. 10km of majestic coastline before turning left to head back to Girona.

For those of you who like name-dropping, the main climb to remember today is the spectacular 7km ascent called 'Alt de Sant Grau'. At the summit, you will have your first impressive views down to the Mediterranean coastline. It is a relatively gentle 5% all the way but be warned the final km has some good 10% ramps to contend with!

Those with some training in the legs will really enjoy today's ride, which is up to 100km and 1350VM.

Team Mac, you will visit the small town of Pubol. This was the home of Salvador Dali's wife Gala and her castle, which has now been converted into a museum. After exploring this unique building, you will return to Girona via Els Angels Monastery. Supposedly this was the church where Dali and Gala were married. The views back down to Girona from the monastery are worth the drive in their own right!

/ Accommodation: Hotel Ciutat de Girona, Girona
/ Meals Included: Breakfast (Dinner own arrangements)

Day 4, Wednesday 10 September 2025

Test yourself just like the the pro’s – Rocacorba is calling

From Girona the cycling heads north and towards Lake Banyoles, which is an atectonic depression and the largest natural lake in Catalonia. The lake was used during the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. It is approximately 2100m by 750m with an average depth of 15m and in several points is nearly as deep as 50m.

Only minutes away from Lake Banyoles is the ‘Rocacorba’ challenge. This climb has become famous in recent years with professional riders using the climb for their specific hill interval sets. While the 11km climb is characterised by a 6% average grade, it is the final 5km which is really tough and constantly maintains ramps hovering around double-digit gradients. At the top, be sure to congratulate yourself on what was a wonderful achievement! If you decide to call it a day, you can roll down to the edge of Lake Banyoles, pull in at one of our favourite lakeside cafeterias and grab the van back to Girona (60km and 900VM). For those wanting more, the ride through to the hotel in Girona finishes with 100km and 1250VM.

Team Mac, you have time this morning to roll up your sleeves and try some traditional Catalan and Spanish cooking. This hands-on cooking class will be a great way to become familiar with the local products. There will also be time to sample some of the local wines.

Tonight, you are free to explore the many restaurants that Girona has on offer. I highly recommend heading to the Placa de la Independencia which is around the corner from our hotel.

/ Accommodation: Hotel Ciutat de Girona, Girona
/ Meals Included: Breakfast (Dinner own arrangements)

Day 5, Thursday 11 September 2025

Els Angels Monastery & Monells

Riding from the hotel, you will encounter some stunning scenery as you climb over the Les Gavarres mountain range. The road from Girona heads east and the first climb is up to the Els Angels Monastery. This is one of the most popular rides in the region and its 10km at 3% average gradient is the perfect way to get your legs going again.

Newcomers to Girona often refer to this climb as 'Hells Angels'. But don't worry it is not related to the climb’s difficulty, only an error in pronunciation. The Spanish to English translation is actually 'The Angels' due to the chapel at the summit where Salvador Dali himself was married. This climb up from Girona follows quiet roads that weave through the woodlands. Make sure to do the extra 500m up to the chapel (Santuari de Els Angels) for amazing panoramic views and to find the coffee shop, of course!

Now that you are back on the bike again, it is time to enjoy a cruisy flowing descent down to Monells, which is a small medieval town located in the La Baix Emporda region. Its main features are the yellowish stone houses, arches and cobblestone floors which have formed the film set for many Spanish feature movies. Be sure to take a rest in its main plaza and enjoy a coffee with the locals.

Both ride options today (85km and 1050VM or 110km and 1500VM) have smooth, beautifully asphalted roads with many undulations that will keep things interesting through to our coastal retreat in Callela. Callela is a historic fishing village formed by several coves which still today preserves its charm thanks to its narrow streets, traditional fisherman’s dwellings and quiet beaches. The rocky coastline really is an ideal setting for getting out and exploring (walking and cycling anyone?).

After a relaxed hotel check-out, Team Mac will visit the nearby Mediterranean coastline immediately to the south of Girona. First stop will be Tossa de Mar! You will take a short walk up to the lighthouse which has stunning views before diving down into the fishing district for a coffee. If there is any interest, we can even organise a short kayak tour. The drive through to Calella will follow the spectacular coastal road which will also be used by our cyclists! 

/ Accommodation: Hotel Mediterrani, Calella de Palafrugell
/ Meals Included: Breakfast (Lunch and Dinner own arrangements)

Day 6, Friday 12 September 2025

Finca Bell-Lloc Winery

Most of us don’t ride every day. Today could be a good day to recharge, have a coffee and head to the beach which is pretty much on your doorstep. We had almost half the group take up this option today. When you see our hotel location you will understand why. Enjoy your day and we will pick you up later in the evening and take you to the winery.

Or… then there’s the other half who will ride every km on offer. There are 2 options. Cappo is 72km and latte is 95km. Let’s just say that it’s undulating. (800VM and 1300VM.) Both rides include Peratallada. It’s the perfect coffee stop. The small town centre includes an elegant castle and the defensive walls and moat manage to perfectly preserve the medieval atmosphere of its origins. Peratallada was also used for the filming of the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. From here the riding continues west along quiet side roads through sunflower fields before heading south and back towards the coast.

Team Mac, we recommend using this morning to relax and enjoy the surrounds of our pretty coastal village. Walk along the small cliff tracks, take a swim in the ocean, or simply find some brunch... Later this afternoon, we will all enjoy a visit to the Finca Bell-Lloc winery estate.

Speaking of Finca Bell-Lloc, other than a winery, it is also a spectacular architectural project which has won several architectural prizes. The wine from this ‘finca’ comes under the Brugarol label. The restaurant is world class so let’s also have dinner here.

/ Accommodation: Hotel Mediterrani, Calella de Palafrugell
/ Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner (Lunch own arrangements)

Day 7, Saturday 13 September 2025

Callela to Roses via medieval villages

The cycling on offer today is best described as a transitional day passing the medieval villages of the Costa Brava (from La Baix Emporda to L’Alt Emporda). The 90km route will take you through to your new hotel on the Gulf of Roses for the next two nights. What is generally an easier day in terms of climbing still packs a small punch in the first 5km. There are some steep pinches with 10-12% ramps up to the lookout point. Take your time though and be sure to enjoy the views from the lighthouse!

We will also duck into Pals along the way. It is a modern tourist town, but the old town will transport you back to medieval times and you will be able to appreciate its history and beautiful architecture. Among the elements of greatest interest, you will see the Romanesque tower known as “La Torre de las Hores”, the Gothic entrance arch to the main square, the castle, the walls of Pals and the church of Sant Pere, which all are close to 1000 years old.

Quiet lanes passing agricultural fields and small towns will finally take you through to Roses and its relaxing beaches. The former Greek colony of what was called Rodes stretches between the sea and the mountains. The peaceful waters of this natural harbour were highly sought after. The Greeks from Rhodes were the first to set up a commercial colony here called Rhode.

Team Mac, after breakfast you will make a bee line to the Bay of Roses and visit 'La Ciutadella'. It’s an amazing fort dating back to the 4^th century BC and is only a short walk from the hotel. This amazing piece of Spanish history includes a combination of Greek and Roman history. The church inside the fort is a beautiful structure and the expansive grounds offer a great space to sit, walk and ponder!

/ Accommodation: Hotel Marina, Roses
/ Meals Included: Breakfast (Dinner own arrangements)

Day 8, Sunday 14 September 2025

Serra de Rodes mountains

Today we have designed some excellent 'all-rounder' routes. There are 55km with 950VM or 75km with 1400VM options on offer. The longer route includes three climbs which again all range between 5-8km in length. The ride begins by heading out to Cadaques (another very quaint fishing village), then it’s onto Cabo de Creus, which is the most eastern point on the Iberian Peninsula. From Cadaques the road out to the lighthouse constantly dips and winds its way through an abrupt rocky landscape. Try to wipe that smile off your face. No, it’s impossible!

If you’re wanting a more relaxing ride, we will stop at the seaside café for a coffee before paying a visit to the Salvador Dali residence where Team Mac will be. Dali lived and worked here from 1930 – 1982. The locals love him as you will see by the many statues paying homage.

The second half of today’s ride is the climb through which we believe has the most beauty is Sant Pere de Rodes. For many past guests, the arrival at the picturesque Benedictine Monastery with its curving roads and spectacular coastal views all combine to create the most memorable experience. The 'Sant Pere' climb begins from sea level and the views of the Mediterranean will follow you all the way to the very top!

/ Accommodation: Hotel Marina, Roses
/ Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 9, Monday 15 September 2025

A historical ride up to the French border

The majority of you will ride hotel to hotel which involves 108km and 1400VM. The shorter ride is 66km and 700m of climbing.

We ride north… right up to the French border. In fact, the main climb (Coll de Banyuls - 365m altitude so not massive) takes you right up to France.

For those who like history, the route up to Coll de Banyuls was made famous during the Spanish Civil War (1939). Hundreds of thousands of Spanish escaped into France as General Franco took control of Barcelona. The views down to France are worth the effort!

Couple of important food and drink notes about today. Coffee is at Peralada, a small medieval town with a historic old town and 14th Century castle. This is where you have your caffeine hit as the Spanish are much better at coffee than the French.

Your cycling today takes you through the Alt Emporda region which is making headlines for its wines. We will prepare a picnic lunch mid-ride today so you have the strength to make it through to Figueras. Enjoy.

For those of you who like wine, then the Alt Emporda region is a great place to explore. Team Mac, in particular, will visit La Vinyeta winery, and this will also double as an excellent wine tasting session!

Our home for the next 2 nights is the town of Figueras which also means Fig Tree. Quite a large town with a population of 50000. 20km inland from the coast and about 40km from the French border. Figueras is most famous for being the artist Salvador Dali’s birthplace. The museum is a must (even for those who get bored in museums) so we’ll pre-book tickets.

Your hotel has been an Figueres institution since 1827.

Salvador Dali stayed here on many occasions.

/ Accommodation: Hotel Duran, Figueres
/ Meals Included: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch and Dinner

Day 10, Tuesday 16 September 2025

Mare de Deu del Mont and its 360? viewing platform

One of the most challenging days on the bike now awaits. It’s full of surprises and changing landscapes. The climb up to Mare de Deu del Mont at 1085m altitude will be sure to impress. Mare de Deu del Mont is the name. You won’t forget it. 18km at 5%. That doesn’t sound too bad. It’s the 1350m that you climb which will have you puffing.

It is an enjoyable climb on roads in the picturesque Alta Garrotxa mountains. The lower part is mostly in trees, but the scenery opens up towards the top, with some fine views. The first half of the climb is relatively gentle, but the second half has its challenges with 13/14% short ramps to contend with. The road also narrows in the second half so take care.

The current KOM is none other than our own George Bennett. 43mins and 25secs. QOM is Veronica E from EF. 53min and 02 secs, that’s smoking fast….

At the top there’s a 360 degree viewing platform. The ideal spot for a photo. Unless you’re too tired to smile? Cheese!! The slightly shorter option with half the vertical will go via the familiar Lake Banyoles (73km and 1000VM). You will be riding in La Garrotxa National Volcanic Park. Don’t worry though, the last eruption was over 10,000 years ago! Castelfollit is a small town which has been dramatically built on a basalt flow and rock escarpment.

Team Mac, this morning is some retail therapy. Let’s take advantage of our location in the heart of Figueres for any last-minute shopping before catching up with your partners and enjoying the guided visit of the extravagant Dali Museum!

Perfect finish to a perfect day!

/ Accommodation: Hotel Duran, Figueres
/ Meals Included: Breakfast (Dinner own arrangements)

Day 11, Wednesday 17 September 2025

Final escape into the picturesque Vall de Bas!

The final day on the bike through Vall de Bas will be one of the most scenic. The valley is surrounded by mountains that peak at 1500m elevation, the area is very lush and a paradise for agriculture and livestock raising. It would be fair to say that most travellers don’t venture into this corner of Costa Brava. However, the local pelotons know it only too well thanks to the annual ‘Terra de Remences’ gran fondo ride which is held every May.

Hidden away in this quiet valley is ‘Coll de Bracons’ which is one of our favourite climbs (it’s 8.4km at 7.8% average grade and will get you sweating). The first half of the climb ranges between 4-7%, so you can guess what the second part looks like. Basically, there is not too much asphalt over the final few kilometres below double digits!

Along the route, a major highlight for both rides, is crossing the ‘Pantano de Sau’ dam wall. The distinctive rocky mountain landscapes in the background provide a fitting finale and group photo opportunity. Take your pick today between 70KM and 1300VM or 95km and 1650VM!

The medieval town of Besalu will be the last point of call for our Team Mac. The postcard views of the 11th Century medieval bridge bring visitors from all over the world. There will be the chance to also wander its small twisting streets and take it in the ambience of this Catalan jewel! 

Post-ride there will be a 1hr drive back to our Barcelona airport hotel. A final tour dinner will cap-off what has been an amazing Girona and Costa Brava cycling experience. A glass or two of the coveted ‘cava’ (Catalan sparkling wine) will be raised and well and truly enjoyed!

/ Accommodation: Barcelona Airport Hotel
/ Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 12, Thursday 18 September 2025

Home, James

All good things must come to an end. After breakfast, our guides are available for the short transfer to Barcelona Airport or simply use the hotel shuttle service throughout the day. If you would like extra nights in Barcelona, please let us know. Thank you for joining Ride Holidays.

Safe travels home.

/ Meals Included: Breakfast