The Empordà, around Girona, has established itself as one of Europe’s most popular gravel playgrounds, riding on the city’s cycling reputation, which has drawn professional and amateur riders alike for decades.
Rolling terrain between vineyards and cork oaks
From Girona, the tracks head into the Empordà countryside toward Pals and Peratallada, alternating farm roads through vineyards and olive groves with forest paths through the wooded Gavarres hills, known for their cork oaks. Expect around 55 km and 600 m of elevation gain for a loop representative of the region, on generally rolling surfaces.
Getting the ride right
Versatile gravel tyres around 40-45mm suit most of the route, between packed tracks and softer sections after rain. The network of back roads and tracks is dense in the region, making it easy to adjust the distance or route around a section depending on the day’s weather.
When to go
March to June and September to November, as Catalan summer heat makes long-distance rides more taxing at the height of summer. Spring also brings the Empordà landscape into full bloom.
Good to know
Girona, a leading cycling city with a strong international community, offers a wide choice of accommodation and gravel bike rentals, with convenient access to the nearby Costa Brava to combine the ride with a coastal leg.
