Girona
Girona has earned its place as a true road cycling mecca. Over the years, both pros and passionate amateurs have been drawn to this colorful Catalan city. It’s the mix of smooth roads, rolling terrain, and a lifestyle that makes recovery days just as good as the ride. Great food, good coffee, friendly locals—it all just works.
Tucked into the northeast corner of Spain, Girona sits about 70 kilometers from the French border and 100 from Barcelona. It’s proudly Catalan, with a strong local identity. You’ll hear plenty of Catalan spoken here.
Over the years, Girona’s cycling scene has grown alongside its reputation. Now it’s packed with high-end bike shops, coffee cafés, rentals, and events. Many of the fondos and rides are organized by former pros who’ve made this place their base.
The riding here is as good as it gets. East to the Costa Brava, the roads roll along the coast with stunning views. Head north and you’re climbing into the Pyrenees. Right nearby, Els Àngels and Rocacorba offer classic local challenges.
Every trip to Girona feels like a fresh one. There’s always a new ride, a new café, a new reason to come back.
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Best time to ride
Girona has a Mediterranean climate, which means good riding weather for most of the year. Spring from April to June and autumn from September to November are especially ideal, with mild temps and not much rain. Summer heats up, especially in July and August, but heading out early keeps things manageable. Winter is cooler but still rideable, especially if you're used to colder conditions.
Where to stay
Base Towns
Banyoles
If you’re after a quieter vibe, the nearby village of Banyoles delivers. It’s surrounded by peaceful landscapes and sits close to some great cycling routes. The pace is more relaxed, but still fully set up for riders.
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Accommodations (10)
Places in Girona that welcome you and your bike.
Cycle Haven Apartment
This central apartment is made with cyclists in mind, with a wall-mounted bike rack right in the hallway. It’s close to the train station and set up for an easy, bike-friendly stay.
Equipe Girona
Equipe is a laid-back guesthouse and bed & breakfast with a pool and a bike garage. It’s tucked into the quiet, safe Montjuïc area, giving you a peaceful spot to unwind after the ride.
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How to get there
- By Car: Girona’s easy to reach by road. From Barcelona, take the AP-7 (E15). From France the same route connects you straight from Perpignan.
- By Train: Girona sits on the Barcelona–Cerbère line. Bikes are welcome on many trains, especially if you’ve got a bike bag. You can roll in from major Spanish cities or cross over from France with a few smooth connections.
- By Air: Girona–Costa Brava Airport (GRO) is the closest, just 13 km from the city center. It serves several European destinations. The biggest nearby airport is Barcelona El Prat (BCN), about 1 hour and 30 minutes away by train or car.
Bike Rentals (10)
Bikecat
Bike brands: Orbea
They don’t just rent out high-end bikes, they also make sure you are properly fitted. When booking, you can send over your bike measurements and they will set them up on the rental. You can even bring your own pedals and saddle to make it feel like your own ride.
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Shops (8)
Castelli Girona Store
The go-to place for Castelli fans, offering the latest seasonal kit in a sleek space made for riders.
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Cafes & bars (23)
Bar Restaurant l'Escola
A cyclist-friendly stop with generous set menus and outdoor seating, perfect for a relaxed meal in the sun.
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Popular Climbs (9)
Coll de Condreu
16.24km | 669m | 3.9%
A varied climb with rolling sections and forest shade, often used as part of longer loops into the hills.
Els Àngels
10.13km | 387m | 3.8%
A steady, scenic climb with gentle gradients and sweeping views, great for a tempo effort or an easier day out.
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Cycling Routes (14)
Els Angels - Hicanpie loop
67.9km | 1010m | Moderate
This 67.9 km loop from Girona takes you over the classic Els Àngels climb, known for its gentle gradients and peaceful, winding ascent through dense woodland. After the summit, enjoy a fast descent and a rolling mid-section that leads into a second, steadier climb. The route is steeped in cycling history, with Lance Armstrong famously using it for high-intensity training. Quiet roads, medieval villages, and views of distant hills make it a scenic and rewarding ride.
Loop to the Costa Brava
88.4km | 1140m | Moderate
This 88 km loop from Girona showcases the best of the Costa Brava’s dramatic coastline. Enjoy flowing descents and the spectacular coastal road from. The climb to Sant Grau is steady and scenic, opening up to unforgettable sea views. It's a perfect blend of challenge, beauty and classic Mediterranean charm.
Cake Shop Loop
106.3km | 1548m | Hard
This big coastal loop from Girona packs in 1,700 meters of climbing and stunning sea views. It starts with the climb over Els Àngels, then heads to the coast for the tough ascent of Alto de la Ganga from Calonge. The highlight is Sant Grau d’Ardenya, which is steep, winding, and breathtaking. This is a challenging but beautiful ride.
Loop du France
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Loop du France
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Loop du France
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Map of Girona - 61 pins
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Reviews
Write a review Write a reviewExperiences from riders who have been here
Cycling in Girona was an amazing experience for me. The city has a very special atmosphere, calm but full of life, and very friendly for cyclists. There are many great cafés and bike shops where you can relax and feel welcome.
The riding around Girona is incredible, with diverse scenery, beautiful nature, and many different climbs. It is a perfect place for cycling and enjoying the city at the same time.
