From Volcanoes to the Coast

Heading out from Olot, the former trackbed of a narrow gauge freight railway is now the very well maintained path for cyclists and ramblers known as the ‘Via Verde’ or Green Way. It leads through leafy tree tunnels and over bridges, following the Fluvia, Brugent and Ter river valleys. Enjoy a really smooth ride where greenery clears to reveal the most wonderful natural vistas. It’s downhill all the way too (with the exception of just one section of uphill effort – a prearranged transfer is available, if preferred), crossing three regions and taking in twelve towns and sun-baked villages including St Esteve, Amer, Angles and Bescano on the way to ancient Girona. As the route opens up into the pasturelands of the Ter Valley, the towering, solid mass of Girona cathedral appears on the horizon. Park up and refresh on the café terrace, before climbing the steep Roccoco steps leading up to the world’s widest Gothic nave or drinking in the most spectacular sunset views over the city from the town ramparts.

Overnight Girona.

Miles  36  Kms 57

From the art museum at the old Episcopal Palace to the bright façades of the medieval Onyar houses which cling to the old riverside walls, Girona is colourful stuff. Back on two wheels there’s a patchwork landscape of woods, pasture and stretches of earthy farmlands via Quart, Llambilles, Cassa de las Selva, Llagostera, San Cristina D’Aro and Castell D’Aro en route down to the coast and the champagne cork capital, St Feliu de Guíxols. Don’t miss the famous Romanesque Porta Ferrada at the town’s Benedictine Monastery or the fine seafront manor houses near the golden beach and blue Mediterranean waters of San Pol.

Overnight St Feliu de Guíxols.

Miles  26  Kms 43

Depart after breakfast following your final night in St Feliu de Guíxols. Extra nights can be booked to allow more time to explore the colourful Catalan coast at your leisure.