A Cyclist's Guide to Girona
by Joe Taylor
Girona has become synonymous with pro-level cycling. But it isn’t just for the professionals. Nestled in the northeast of Catalonia, this vibrant city offers more than cobbled streets and medieval architecture — it’s a cyclist’s dream. With quiet, well-paved roads, a huge variety of terrain, a thriving cycling culture, and year-round sunshine, Girona has cemented its status as the go-to base for riders from around the world.
Whether you’re in search of short scenic loops or epic climbs into the Pyrenees, Girona has it all. Add in countless cycling cafés, expert bike shops, and a warm, welcoming vibe, and it’s easy to see why so many pros (and aspiring ones) call it home. This guide covers must-ride routes and practical tips to make your Girona cycling trip a success.
Essential Cycling Routes & Roads
a) Els Àngels – Girona's Local Climb
Just a short ride from the city centre, Els Àngels is Girona’s most iconic climb. It stretches about 10 km with an average gradient of around 3–4%, making it the perfect warm-up or weekday spin. At the top, you’re rewarded with views over Girona and a visit to the sanctuary. From there, you can either enjoy the dreamy descent back to Girona or drop over the other side and loop back via Sant Martí Vell. This is a classic loop among locals and often the first ride for new visitors.
b) Rocacorba – The Pro's Test Climb
Ready to test your legs? Rocacorba is Girona’s benchmark climb. Often used by professional riders for fitness testing, this 10.7 km ascent averages 6.5% but ramps up brutally in the final kilometres. It’s a quiet road through forested hills, with views of Lake Banyoles at the base. Not for the faint-hearted, but definitely a must-ride.
c) Sant Hilari – The Long Haul
This 25 km climb is a slow burner. Starting from Anglès, the climb to Sant Hilari Sacalm is scenic, peaceful, and gentle in gradient (around 3–4%), surrounded by forests. It’s a favourite for endurance training and makes for a great day out when paired with local café stops.
d) Mare de Déu del Mont – Views Worth the Effort
One of the most spectacular climbs in the region, Mare de Déu del Mont is tough but breathtaking. From Cabanelles, it’s a 17 km climb with gradients reaching over 10% near the top. The summit offers panoramic views across Catalonia, the Pyrenees, and the Mediterranean on a clear day. Bring your camera!
e) The Coast Loop – Girona to Tossa de Mar
This is one of the most popular long rides from Girona. Starting in the city, you descend toward the coast and ride the stunning GI-682 coastal road between Sant Feliu de Guíxols and Tossa de Mar. Known as one of the most beautiful roads in Spain, it snakes along cliffs and coves in true Mediterranean style. Expect lots of short climbs and sweeping views. In total, the ride is around 120 kilometres with 1,800 metres of climbing — ideal for a big day out.
Practical Cycling Information
Cycling-Friendly Accommodations
All of these routes and climbs can be accessed from Girona. However, if you’d prefer to stay outside the city, there are great options in smaller towns like Banyoles.
The area is well set up for cyclists, with cycling-friendly hotels, apartments, and hostels. Many offer secure bike storage, on-site workshops, and early breakfasts. Look into spots like Hotel Carlemany, Nord 1901, or even cycling-specific stays through a tour operator like Eat Sleep Cycle. Airbnb also has plenty of cyclist-friendly options.
Best Time to Visit
The prime months are March to May and September to November. Summer can be hot but manageable with early starts. Winter is mild, but colder temperatures can hit at higher altitudes if you venture into the Pyrenees.
Bike Rentals & Mechanical Support
There are top-tier rental and service shops in Girona. Check out The Service Course, Eat Sleep Cycle, or Bike Breaks Girona for high-end road or gravel bikes, professional bike fits, and quality gear. You’ll find all the top brands, with models available for various budgets.
Guided Tours & Training Camps
Many companies offer guided rides or full-on training camps — ranging from beginner-friendly tours to pro-level weeks. Notable names include Girona Cycling, Eat Sleep Cycle, and Trek Travel.
Events and Local Culture
Girona isn't just about the riding — it's a hub for cycling culture, with a packed calendar and strong local community.
You’ll find weekly group rides, local races, and a constant stream of cyclists in town. Don’t miss a coffee at La Fàbrica or Espresso Mafia — both founded by former pros and now staples of the local scene.
In May, Girona hosts the Sea Otter Europe festival, which transforms the city into a bike-centric hub with races, expos, and group rides for all levels. It’s one of the biggest cycling festivals in Europe and a great time to visit.
Also in May, The Traka has become one of the top gravel events on the calendar. Thousands of riders from around the world descend on Girona to take on its unpaved roads across a variety of distances and terrains — it's as much a celebration of gravel as it is a test of endurance.
Safety & Tips for Cycling in Girona
- Road Etiquette: Local drivers are used to cyclists and are generally respectful, but always ride single file on narrow roads. Wear bright clothing.
- Watch for Weather: While Girona is sunny most of the year, the mountains can bring sudden changes. Bring a gilet or arm warmers for descents.
- Hydration & Fuel: Many towns have fountains and cafés, but carry enough food and water for longer rides. Cafés can sometimes be closed during the week.
- Navigation: Komoot, Strava, or RideWithGPS will show all the popular routes. Some bike shops also offer preloaded GPS devices and local route suggestions.
Conclusion
Girona is the perfect city stop for cyclists. With its blend of challenging routes, relaxed culture, and pro-level amenities, the city invites you to ride like the pros or simply soak in the atmosphere. Whether you're climbing Rocacorba or sipping a post-ride cortado in town, Girona makes every cyclist feel at home.