Pyrenees To The Mediterranean

8 days - from $1398

Gentle cycling from the Pyrenean foothills to Barcelona and the coast
Starting from the small town of Ripoll, surrounded by mountains up to 2100m, our route leads through the Pyrenean foothills and lush forests, and takes us into beautiful, atmospheric mediaeval villages and towns. Catalunya has the highest density of well-preserved Romanesque architecture in the world: the monasteries in Ripoll and Sant Joan de les Abadesses are two fine examples. Part of the route is along a former railway line, the Bici Carril, which is now a graded cycling route taking us all the way to the sea at San Feliu de Guixols. The route follows many valleys, and goes through some mountainous landscapes and tunnels. A couple of days are set aside to swim in the Mediterranean, explore Girona and, of course, Barcelona. This cosmopolitan city has something for everyone, whether you are looking for architecture, history, vibrant night life or good food.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Ripoll. 2 There is time to visit the Romanesque monastery before joining the Bici Carril to Olot in the Parc Natural de la Zona Volcanica de la Garroxta. 3 Circular ride into the extinct volcanoes of Garrotxa to see the Croscat Volcano and Santa Pau, one of the best of Catalunya's mediaeval villages. Optional longer ride into Bas Valley, a quiet area with picturesque villages. 4 There is a gentle climb today along the Bici Carril, but then it is mostly downhill as we cycle to Girona. 5 Morning to visit ancient walled town of Girona with magnificent cathedral and Arabian baths. Cycle to San Feliu de Guixols on the edge of the Mediterranean. 6 Today is free to relax on the beach or take an optional circular ride along the coast to Tossa del Mar. 7 Bus to Barcelona (fare to be paid locally). Visit the city's highlights - Antonio Gaudi's unique buildings, the Barrio Gotico with its beautiful cathedral, the Jewish Quarter and the Picasso Museum. 8 End Barcelona.

Mode of travel: Average daily distance: 40km (25 miles) No. of days cycling: 5 (1 optional) Vehicle support: none whilst cycling; luggage is transferred between hotels for you. Terrain and route: gentle cycling mainly on surfaced roads, quiet lanes and the Bici Carril. Most of the time there is a downhill bias but there are a few climbs.
Group size: Self guided. Route notes and maps are provided.
Accommodation: 7 nights hotels/hostels, all with en suite facilities.
Food: All breakfasts and 3 dinners included.
Compulsory Single Supplement: from $262.50
Trip Reference: LSY
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.
Notes: Start any Thursday or Saturday from 31 March to 27 October 2012 Starting 01 April - 05 April, 21 June - 21 July and 18 August - 06 September GBP849 All other dates GBP799 Prices are land only and do not include travel from London Supplement for single traveller GBP280 (includes single room supplement) Return flights from London: prices from GBP134 Low cost flights to Barcelona available with Easyjet. Local bike hire: Customised hybrid bikes GBP70, paid on booking.
Trip Reference: LSY