CYCLING IN CATALONIA - SELF GUIDED CYCLING HOLIDAY
Uncover the wild and beautiful landscape of Catalonia on this cycling holiday in North East Spain.
Follow traffic free roads and open countryside as you cycle through idyllic villages surrounded by
olive groves and orchards. Relax and unwind as you pass fields of yellow sunflowers and meander
through nature reserves teeming with bird-life. Take time to savour the local cuisine at the village
markets and discover local tradition and culture in this hidden area of Catalonia.
After a transfer from Girona, your cycle starts in Palau Saverdera which is a charming Catalan farming
village, only 5km from the sea. You will be based here for the first few nights as you explore the
surrounding villages and sights on your wheels, including a wonderful circular route to Peralada (famous for
its winemaking). You then head south to Sant Pere Pescador your base for the rest of the holiday. En route
you pass through Aiguamolls Nature Reserve where there is an abundance of birdlife and head on down to
the coast for some fantastic views across to the Pyrenees. Plenty of relaxed cycling and stunning scenery
make this a wonderful holiday to unwind and recharge your batteries.
The pace of life, stimulating culture and dramatic seascapes of this largely undiscovered and unspoilt part of
Spain will refresh and reinvigorate you. Macs Adventure’s cycling holidays allow you to see so much more
of the countryside away from the crowds and give you a real sense of freedom.
Cycling through the tranquil Nature Reserve
Traffic free rural trails through olive groves, vineyards and orchards
Discover and explore Medieval towns and villages
Experience the freedom and wonder at the spectacular scenery
WHY CHOOSE A SELF GUIDED CYCLING HOLIDAY WITH US?
Macs Adventure specialise in self guided cycling holidays. As passionate and regular cyclists we know what
makes for an unforgettable adventure and we deliver outstanding holidays with every last detail taken care
of. Great routes, breathtaking scenery and warm, welcoming accommodation can be expected.
Each holiday can be tailor made to meet your requirements. From your first contact with Macs Adventure
you will deal with a local specialist who knows the region intimately. They help you to make the most of your
time with their in-depth knowledge of the route, accommodation and must-see attractions on the way.
We supply you with comfortable hybrid bikes, extensive and clear route notes, info pack and a preloaded
GPS Unit to guide you every step of the way. Your baggage is collected and moved to your next
accommodation as per your itinerary, leaving you free to enjoy each days cycling.
In the unlikely event you should require emergency support our office and our local partner in Catalonia are
always more than happy to help with your queries. From the moment you decide to visit Catalonia you can
relax and look forward to an unforgettable self-guided cycling holiday.
What’s Included?
Accommodation: Traditional, rural family-run guest houses .
Bike Hire: We supply you with a fully
equipped hybrid bike and helmet.
Meals: A hearty breakfast is included.
Lunch and dinner are not included but al-
ways
available at accommodation or nearby.
Baggage Transfer: Door-to-door
baggage transfer where applicable.
Information Pack: Comprehensive route notes, maps and local information supplied.
Tour: Cycling in Catalonia
Code: CSPSCIC1 - 2
Type: Self-Guided Cycling Holiday
Price: See Website
Single Supplement: See Website
Dates: Jan—June/Sep—Dec
Cycling Days: 4 or 6 Days
Nights: 5 or 7 Nights
Start/Finish: Girona Airport
Grade: Moderate
Is It For Me?
Clear blue sea, plenty of sunshine and
relaxed cycling make this the perfect holiday
to unwind. Enjoy the charming villages and
wonderful local cuisine in this unspoilt area
of Northern Spain.
CATALAN VILLAGES & COAST
CYCLE ACROSS ROLLING PLAINS THROUGH SLEEPY
VILLAGES TO THE WILD COAST OF CATALONIA
CYCLING IN CATALONIA
UNSPOILT COAST AND RUSTIC VILLAGES
SUMMARY
HIGHLIGHTS
THE DESCRIPTION BELOW IS BASED
ON THE 7 NIGHT ITINERARY:
DAY 1
Arrive Girona/Transfer to Palau
Saverdera
Our local partner will meet you at Girona Airport
for the transfer to Palau Saverdera, alternatively
we can arrange a transfer from Figueres Train
Station. After your welcome briefing and bike
fitting then you are free to set off on your
adventure.
Palau Saverdera is a charming little farming
community nestled at the bottom of the Sant
Salvador Saverdera mountain in the Cap de
Creus National Park. The village is just 5 kms
from the sea. Depending on your arrival time
you may wish to begin your exploration of the
area by cycling some of the off road trails
minutes from your front door.
Overnight: Niu de Sol, Rural Hotel, Palau
Saverdera
DAY 2
Westerly circuit to Peralada: 36km
(22.4m), approx 3 1/2 hrs
Today you will travel due west on a circular route
that introduces you to the beautiful Catalan
countryside in the foothills of the Pyrenees. You’ll
pass fields lined with vines producing the wine
that you will no doubt sample at some stage of
your holiday. After a while you’ll arrive at the
historic town of Peralada—a town now known for
its winemaking. The impressive ‘Museo del
Castillo de Peralada’ hosts one of the best
collections of Catalonian art.
You may wish to change out of your shorts and
tee shirt and return in the evening to visit the
elegant Casino-built within the medieval castle.
Its a gentle cycle back to Palau through the
sleepy hamlets of Pedret and Marza to your hotel
for a second night.
Overnight: Niu de Sol, Rural Hotel, Palau
Saverdera
DAY 3
Westerly cycle to Vilabertran: 39km
(24.3m), approx 3 1/2 hrs
Today you cycle through rolling farmland
cultivated with fruit orchards, olive groves and
vineyards. Farm tracks, rural trails and tourist
cycle routes wind their way to Vilabertran where
you cannot help but be impressed by the
Romanesque Monastery and Church.
The working town of Figueres is a short distance
away and the 5 mile diversion will allow you to
visit the Teatre-Museu Dali—a museum created
by Dali and his final resting place in the crypt
within.
The return journey passes the village of Vilanova
de la Muga and 11th Century church of St Eulalia
and takes you for your final night in Palau
Saverdera.
Overnight: Niu de Sol, Rural Hotel, Palau
Saverdera
DAY 4
South through Aiguamolls Nature Reserve and onto St Pere Pescador:
28km (17.4m), approx 3 1/2 hrs
Leaving Palau Saverdera behind, today's route is
a short one but packed with sights and
experiences. You’ll meander through a
patchwork of fields to Castello d'Empuries; a
beautiful medieval town, steeped in history.
Once you’ve satisfied yourself with the
architecture, shops and cafes in the old town it’s
back in the saddle for a ride through the
Aiguamolls Nature Reserve. The Reserve
covers nearly 2000 hectares and the area is
dotted with hides, ideal for spotting the
abundance of birdlife. From the Reserve you
continue onwards to the village of St Pere
Pescador. The village is about a mile from the
coast, and a beautiful 4 miles long sandy beach.
Overnight: Mas del Joncar, Rural House, Sant
Pere Pescador.
The house, constructed in the 19th century has
been completely restored and modernised by
owners Anna and Miguel. One of Miguel's
passions is cooking and he and Anna offer
traditional Catalan fayre, using local produce.
DAY 5
Free/Rest Day
The options are numerous for your free/rest day
with a host of local attractions, some slightly
farther afield and of course there's always the
beach should you want to kick back and relax.
Whether you decide to use the bikes or leave
them at home you could visit the vibrant and
bustling seaside town of Cadaques, famous for
its association with Dali who spent his summers
here.
The village of St Pere is a short walk from your
Casa Rural and you should take time to wander
around its attractive lanes .
CATALAN VILLAGES & COAST
CYCLE ACROSS ROLLING PLAINS AND FARMLAND TO THE WILD COAST OF CATALONIA
CYCLING IN CATALONIA
UNSPOILT COAST AND RUSTIC VILLAGES
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The nearby Bay of Roses can be reached on foot
or two wheels in a matter of minutes. The sand
and sea are great for relaxing, getting some rays
and cooling off in the Mediterranean and the
expansive beach ensures space and tranquillity.
Overnight: Mas del Joncar, Rural House, Sant
Pere Pescador.
DAY 6
Circular route through Catalan Countryside: 37km (23m), approx 3
1/2 hrs
Today’s cycle is a wonderful circular route
through open countryside. On the first section of
the cycle you get great views across to the high
Pyrenees and you pass many apple orchards
and small hamlets before crossing the river and
looping southwards back to Sant Pere Pescador
Overnight: Mas del Joncar, Rural House, Sant
Pere Pescador.
DAY 7
Travel south to Empuries
Remember to pack your swimming kit as you
head off today. You’ll begin by leaving the
village, before a brief climbing that takes you
past the entrance to the Greek and Roman ruins
at Empuries.
There are some excellent examples of Roman
Mosaics here and other remains dating back as
far as 281 B.C. An hour or two here will give you
an insight into the cultures that influenced and
shaped the area and its people.
Continuing along the coast path you soon reach
the walled settlement of Sant Marti d’Empuries.
Dropping back to the plains your route home
takes you through the pretty village hamlet of
Cinclaus and back to the river Fluvia. Retracing
your steps for the last mile or so bring you back
to your Casa Rural for your final night.
Overnight: Mas del Joncar, Rural House, Sant
Pere Pescador.
DAY 8
Departure Day
After a leisurely breakfast a transfer to Girona
Airport sees you on your way home.
Description: Our 7 Day cycle follows the itinerary detailed previously. Perfect for regular cyclists looking for a relaxed but active holiday. Days: 5/6 Cycling Days Nights: 7 Average daily cycling time: 3-4 Hours Grade: Moderate
Description: This itinerary is perfect for a shorter cycling holiday, possibly combined with a day or two of sightseeing in Girona or Barcelona. Days: 4 Cycling Days Nights: 5 Average daily cycling time: 3-4 Hours Grade: Moderate
Additional Nights and Extensions
Many of our clients choose to add extra nights to
sample more of the wonderful attractions and
culture.
Most customers fly into Girona—a beautiful and
busy city where mediaeval influences and
architecture are still very prevalent. Slightly
further afield is the incredible city of Barcelona
home of the inspired religious icon of La Sagrada
Familia. Shopping, culture, fine food and
amazing nightlife draw visitors from around the
globe. An extra night in Castello d’Empuries
provides a base for a trip to Figueres to the
Museum that commemorates Dali's life. There
are some amazing beaches a few kilometres
from Castello to intersperse culture with sun,
sand and sea.
CYCLING IN CATALONIA
UNSPOILT COAST AND RUSTIC VILLAGES
Day Route Miles
1 23 4 5 6 7 8
Arrive Girona/transfer to Palau Saverdera Circuit to Peralada Circuit to Vilabertran Cycle to Sant Pere Pes-cador Free Day Sant Pere Pescador circuit Empuries circuit Onward travel
22 24 18 23 24
Total Distance 111
Day Route Miles
1 2 3 4 5 6
Arrive Girona/transfer to Palau Saverdera Circuit to Peralada Cycle to Sant Pere Pescador Sant Pere Pescador circuit Empuries circuit Onward travel
22 18 23 24
Total Distance 87
CSPSCVC2
CSPSCVC1
HOLIDAY INFORMATION
Fewer Nights
If you wish to reduce the number of nights we
can tailor your trip to your requirements.
Tailor Made Holidays
We are always more than happy to tailor our
standard itineraries to suit. Just let us know what
you would like and we will be happy to arrange
tailor made walking holiday.
Grade
Itineraries on this cycling trip are graded
Moderate. Occasionally you may encounter a
few moderate slopes, especially on coastal trails.
However the ascent is not too difficult or
prolonged.
Navigation
The trails on this holiday are a mix of local paths,
farm tracks. The route notes that accompany
each itinerary give a step by step, turn by turn
account of your route and are complimented with
photographs to give you continual points of
reference.
Accommodation
One of the highlights of this tour is the high
standard of the accommodation. We specifically
select the Guest Houses to ensure that you enjoy
every minute of your stay.
They all offer a warm welcome to cyclists,
traditional hospitality and delicious local food.
Each accommodation is different and full of
character as we aim to deliver an authentic
experience.
Single Rooms
If you require single rooms we would be happy to
accommodate you although there is a single
room supplement payable. Unfortunately we are
unable to offer this holiday to solo walkers due to
safety reasons.
Meals
A traditional Catalan breakfast is included each
morning. Breakfast is a leisurely affair and
adequate time should be allocated. Lunch and
dinner are not included. Most accommodations
are happy to provide a packed lunch - this should
be requested on arrival. Dinner is available either
at your accommodation or nearby bars, cafes
and restaurants.
Baggage Transfer
Your bags will be transferred from your
accommodation as per your itinerary and moved
onto your next overnight accommodation. We
ask you to limit your luggage to one bag of up to
15kg per person.
Equipment
Your information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard gear such as good shoes with stiff soles for cycling, breathable clothing and sun protection and a day pack.
Price
Please refer to our website for up to date prices
www.macsadventure.com
Availability
This cycling holiday can be enjoyed from Feb–
Jun/Sep—Dec.
In the high summer months of July and August
temperatures are generally so hot as to make
cycling uncomfortable.
Included
Arrival and departure transfers from/to Girona Airport
Welcome meeting with English speaking staff
Bed and breakfast accommodation in ensuite rooms.
Baggage transfer.
A detailed info pack, route notes, series of maps and local information.
Fully equipped Hybrid bicycle with panniers
Hemet, repair kit and lock
Full information pack on local history, culture & traditions as well as advice on restaurants, bars and local attractions.
Emergency telephone support from our office in the UK as well as from a local office in Catalonia with English speaking staff.
Excluded
Lunches, dinners, snacks and drinks.
Travel Insurance.
Transport should you need to skip a stage.
Entrance fees (where applicable)
Getting to Catalonia
By Air—The closest regional airport to is Girona,
Flight time for the UK is around 2.5 hours from
Scotland and the North of England and around
45 minutes less from London and southern
English airports.
Once at Girona you will be met at the airport and
transferring by private car to your first nights
accommodation—a journey of approx 1 hour.
Alternatively we offer a transfer from the nearest
train station at Figueres.
CYCLING IN CATALONIA
UNSPOILT COAST AND RUSTIC VILLAGES
PRICE AND AVAILABILITY
TRAVEL INFORMATION
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend taking out travel
insurance to cover cancellation or curtailment of
your holiday.
We operate holidays in some of the most
beautiful areas of the world and try to operate in
an environmentally aware and sustainable
manner. We do this by following our M.A.C.S.
Responsible travel policy.
Minimise Impact & Maximise Benefit
Our operating policies, office policies, holidays
and tours are all designed to minimise impact
and maximise benefit to the environment and
local communities.
Action & Advocacy
We believe that by engaging our team and
clients in environmental and community projects
we can make a real difference.
Carbon & Communities
Travel and our business activity does of course
contribute to carbon output and climate change.
We have put several policies in place to minimise
our carbon footprint.
Sensitive & Sustainable
Macs Adventure has worked hard to ensure that
our holidays are sensitive to the community you
are visiting and sustainable over the long term.
Once you have read all the information in this
factsheet or our website, please visit our website
or give us a call to confirm availability. You can
then book by any of the following methods:
Book Securely Online: www.macsadventure.com
Telephone: +44 (0) 141 530 8886
Fax/Post: Download or request a booking form and post it to Macs Adventure, 44 Speirs Wharf, Glasgow, G4 9TH, UK or fax it to +44 (0) 845 527 5688
Please don’t hesitate to contact us by phone on
+44 (0) 141 530 8886 or email:
[email protected] if you have any
queries and one of our expert team will be happy
to help.
Financial Security
In accordance with "The Package Travel,
Package Holidays and Package Tours
Regulations1992" all passengers booking with
Macs Adventure Ltd are fully protected for the
initial deposit and subsequently the balance of all
monies paid to us, including repatriation if
required (this insurance will not cover repatriation
to the country of origin for the passengers
outside of the EU), arising from cancellation or
curtailment of your travel arrangements due to
the insolvency of Macs Adventure Ltd
There is no requirement for Financial Protection
of day trips, and none is provided. This
insurance is only valid for packages booked that
DO NOT include flights.
Book with Confidence. We are a member of ABTA which means you have the benefit of ABTA’s assistance and Code of Conduct. We provide full financial protection for your money.
ABTA Member Statement
Macs Adventure Holidays is a Member of ABTA.
ABTA and ABTA. Members help holidaymakers
to get the most from their travel and assist when
things don’t go according to plan. We are obliged
to maintain a high standard of service to you by
ABTA’s Code of Conduct.
For more information on
ABTA, the Code of
Conduct and the
arbitration scheme
available to you if you have a complaint, contact
ABTA, 30 Park Street, London SE1 9EQ, tel 020
3117 0581 www.abta.com
CYCLING IN CATALONIA
UNSPOILT COAST AND RUSTIC VILLAGES
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
HOW TO BOOK
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE