Cycling from Platja de Aro to Girona: A Scenic Journey through Catalonia
Are you a cycling enthusiast looking for your next adventure? Home to some of the most beautiful and popular cycling routes in the world. In this episode, we’ll take you on a journey through the stunning Catalan countryside, from the coastal town of Platja de Aro to the vibrant city of Girona.
Cycling from Platja de Aro to Girona: A Scenic Journey through Catalonia
Starting from Platja de Aro, the route takes you up the winding road of Coll de la Ganga, which boasts stunning views of the surrounding hills and the Mediterranean Sea. The climb is challenging but not overly difficult, with an elevation gain of approximately 400 meters over a distance of 7 kilometers.
As you descend from Coll de la Ganga, you’ll enter the region of L’Empordà, where you’ll be greeted by rolling hills, olive groves, and charming villages. L’Empordà is known for its rich history and culture, and you’ll be cycling through some of the most picturesque towns in the region, including Santa Cristina d’Aro, Castell d’Aro, and Calonge.
The highlight of the route is undoubtedly the climb up to the famous Els Angels sanctuary, which has been a pilgrimage site for centuries. The climb is challenging, with an elevation gain of approximately 450 meters over a distance of 10 kilometers, but the views from the top are well worth the effort. From the summit, you can see the entire city of Girona and the surrounding countryside.
L’Empordà is a region steeped in history and culture, and cycling through its picturesque villages and countryside is an unforgettable experience. As you cycle through the narrow streets of Santa Cristina d’Aro and Castell d’Aro, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time, with their well-preserved medieval architecture and charming squares.
One of the highlights of the region is the Castle of Calonge, a stunning fortress that dates back to the 12th century. The castle has been beautifully restored and is now open to visitors, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
Another must-visit in L’Empordà is the Jardins de Cap Roig, a botanical garden that boasts over 1,000 species of plants from around the world. The garden is perched on a hill overlooking the sea and offers stunning views of the coast.
From Els Angels to Fabrica Café: A Perfect Day Out for Cyclists
After a few kilometers riding through L’empordá, a charming region with narrow roads, olive groves, and stone houses. The scenery is breathtaking, and the fresh air and silence makes the ride even more pleasant energizing you to tackle the next challenge: Els Angels.
Els Angels is a 10-kilometer climb, and it’s one of the most popular ascents around Girona. It’s a challenging climb, with steep sections and hairpin turns, but the views from the top are worth the effort. Some fatigue can build up while ascending the mountain but the breathtaking views of the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean Sea are worth it. After reaching the summit, there’s an exhilarating descent down to Girona, with a stop at Fabrica Café, a popular cycling hangout, to refuel and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
The café is located in the heart of Girona’s historic quarter, just a stone’s throw from the city’s famous cathedral. The interior is decorated with vintage cycling memorabilia, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
In conclusion, cycling through Costa Brava from Platja de Aro to Girona, going up Coll de la Ganga, riding through L’empordá, climbing Els Angels from behind, and stopping at Fabrica Café is a challenging yet rewarding experience. The stunning views of the coastline, the charming villages, and the vibrant city of Girona make this ride a must-do for any cyclist visiting the region.
Equipment used:
Activity and route:
| Elapsed Time | Moving Time | Distance | Average Speed | Max Speed | Elevation Gain | Calories Burned |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
06:56:51 hours | 05:25:02 hours | 121.20 km | 22.37 km/h | 58.78 km/h | 1,765.00 meters | 3,089 kcal |
