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Cycling in Girona: A Rider’s Paradise

  • Writer: Bon Dia Residences
    Bon Dia Residences
  • Jul 10
  • 2 min read

From quiet medieval streets to legendary climbs, Girona has earned its reputation as one of Europe’s top cycling destinations. But what truly sets it apart? Here's why cyclists -- from casual enthusiasts to world champions -- fall for this charming Catalan city.


Image: Cyclists gathering in Girona Old Town (source: Nafent Magazine)
Image: Cyclists gathering in Girona Old Town (source: Nafent Magazine)

Why Girona?

Girona lies between the Costa Brava and Pyrenees, offering diverse terrain: rolling coastal routes, mid-altitude climbs (hello, Rocacorba!), volcanic backroads, and alpine-worthy Pyrenean passes. Most roads are impeccably paved, lightly trafficked (especially outside tourist hotspots), and backdropping stunning scenery, ideal for reliable training year-round.

Image: Shaded countryside ride near Girona (source: Nafent Magazine)
Image: Shaded countryside ride near Girona (source: Nafent Magazine)

A Hub for Pro Riders

Girona became a cycling mecca after professionals like Lance Armstrong, David Millar, and Dan Martin made it their base. Today, around 300 elite cyclists and triathletes live here. David Millar describes it as a place with "high‑end dining, cycling atmosphere and beautiful landscapes" -- perfect for both family life and intense training.


Services Tailored to Cyclists

Girona goes all-out for bike lovers:

  • Rocacorba Atelier offers top-tier Canyon bike rentals, pro-level mechanics, safety gear, and route libraries as well as high-end custom tours. Their in‑house workshop, evening storage, showers, and massage room are a cyclist’s dream.

  • Other highly rated shops include Eat Sleep Cycle and Velodrom, offering rentals, repairs, retail, and guiding services.

  • Cyclist-friendly cafés such as La Fàbrica, La Comuna, and Federal Café serve as daily rendezvous for locals and pros alike.

Image: Cyclists at a local café in Girona (source: Sports Hotels guide)
Image: Cyclists at a local café in Girona (source: Sports Hotels guide)

Where to Ride

  • Climb Rocacorba: 10 km with ~1,000 m elevation, favoured by pros.

  • Explore coastal circuits via Sant Grau or Els Àngels: scenic loops that never get old.

  • Venture inland to the Gavarres, Sant Hilari, or La Garrotxa volcanic lanes for quiet, leafy routes.

  • Komoot Collections:


In the Words of the Pros

“We realize we can come here [La Fàbrica] and find others and just relax. It is important.” — Caleb Fairly, ex-Giant‑Alpecin, on the culture of Girona
“Girona combines cycling with culinary culture…now it's the connoisseur’s choice.” — David Millar 
Image: Gravel riding near Girona (source: Rocacorba Cycling)
Image: Gravel riding near Girona (source: Rocacorba Cycling)

Join the Club

Girona offers more than a ride, it’s a community. With local clubs, guided camps, and regular sportive events, it welcomes both visitors and established riders . Training camps run year-round, attracting riders from around Europe.


Ready to Ride Girona Like a Pro:

  • Book your stay at Bon Dia Residences -- cycling-friendly, centrally located, fully serviced apartments.

  • Rent top-tier bikes through Rocacorba Atelier -- store your bike there overnight or keep it with you in the apartment.

  • Join a local café ride and connect with Girona’s cycling community

    • Weekly social ride at Castelli's Flagship Store in Girona

    • Contact Brian Jones on +34 637 41 88 95 to join the Knuckleheads / Caps de Suru WhatsApp Group for details on daily rides

  • Optimise your ride with Science to Sport -- professional biomechanics, performance testing and expert coaching tailored to your individual needs.


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