Exploring Catalonia By Bike

The region of Catalonia is situated on the northeast coast of Spain, bordering France.

Its coastal regions soon rise into the Pyrenees, the spectacular mountain range that runs west across the Iberian Peninsula. As a result, Catalonia has amazingly varied terrain and stunning landscapes well suited to exploration by bike.

For easier routes, stick to the coastal areas where terrain is generally easier. The town of Llafranc provides a great jumping off point for routes that explore the seaside and the inland plain.

A popular route is to cycle to the town of Girona, more challenging thanks to a number of steep climbs. This more mountainous terrain is best suited to experienced cyclists.

You can plan your own route if you are confident in your organizational skills, or opt for a supported tour from a tour operator. Some of the biggest names in the region include Cycle Catalan, Inntravel and Cyclomundo.

The best time to go on a cycling tour in Catalonia is early summer in the months of May and June. Temperatures are in the mid-20s Celsius, slightly cooler than the roasting heat of July and August.

If you don’t mind wrapping up, you can cycle in Catalonia at any time. The coldest month is December, with daily lows around 13 degrees. It’s best to avoid October, the wettest month.

Most people will arrive into either Barcelona or Girona. The former is better served as a long-haul destination, and both are fascinating places to visit in their own right.