Cataluña, Baby: Off-season cyclists paradise
In February, we went to ride in the sun in Catalonia to climb our first passes of the year, discover the calas of the Costa Brava and enjoy some tapas.
We put our suitcases and our bikes at the base camp for the week, located a few minutes from Girona, the cycling capital of Spain. Bike cafes, concept stores, the city, the whole city exudes a passion for cycling and many pros have taken up residence there, seduced by its climate and its perfect location. Here, cycling is a religion. Bienvenido!
We found the perfect region for cycling all year round! Here, the roads are sunny and the temperatures range between 15 and 20 degrees, you can even take your shorts out again, in mid-February it's rare. The mountains are still snowy on the horizon.
Easily accessible from France, Catalonia could soon become our favorite spot to launch the road or gravel bike season.
Walking along the Costa Brava coast means discovering magnificent landscapes. Between Tossa de Mar and Begur, the Corniche is so photogenic that you stop every five minutes to shoot. The turquoise coves make us want to dive at each cove, in the middle of the steep cliffs.
The lunch breaks are facing the sea. Do you prefer empanadas or jamón sandwiches? We take both.
On the mountain side, Catalonia does not disappoint either. La Muntanya dels Àngels, Sant Grau or even Santa Pellaia offer rolling climbs, perfect for starting the year, with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the Pyrenees. And for lovers of high percentages, the Santuari de Rocacorba, perched at an altitude of 1000 meters, offers an irregular climb with passages of more than 10%. The reward? A 360° view of all of Catalonia and the promise of a paella and a very fresh cerveza upon arrival at the cycling camp.
To sum up, why come and drive in Catalonia?
Because here, you can drive under the sun in the middle of winter, avoid greyness, and enjoy varied roads, adapted to all levels. Whether for an intensive cycling course or a cycling trip with friends, Catalonia has everything to please.
We are already preparing for the next cycling camps, and this destination will soon be on the program of our Platoon stays.
Are you ready to pedal with our sotros? Let's hope to see you soon!
