Empordà plain Singletrack Challenge

The Empordà plain unfolds like a vast, sun-drenched canvas of green and gold, where centuries-old vineyards and olive groves stretch toward the horizon, broken only by the occasional cluster of stone villages. This is the setting for the Empordà plain Singletrack Challenge, a multi-day mountain biking adventure that blends flowing singletrack with the raw, untamed beauty of Catalonia’s countryside. The route carves a path through 145 kilometers of varied terrain, with a modest 952 meters of elevation gain spread over gentle undulations—perfect for riders seeking an easy yet immersive experience. Forest roads and singletrack weave through the landscape, offering a mix of smooth, rolling descents and technical sections that reward skill and confidence. The ride is tailored for those who want to enjoy long, leisurely days in the saddle (4–6 hours daily), with guided support ensuring every detail is covered.

The journey begins in the heart of Girona, at Plaça de la Independència, where the medieval charm of the city gives way to the open expanses of the Empordà plain. One of the standout features of this ride is the rock-slab traverses above the Fluvià Riverbanks, where the trail hugs the edge of steep drop-offs, offering exhilarating views of the water far below. The singletrack through the plain is particularly memorable, winding through dense pine forests and sun-dappled clearings, where the scent of wild herbs and the rustle of leaves create a sensory symphony. A flowing descent near the village of Madremanya is a highlight, the trail smoothing out as it glides past ancient stone walls and into the valley below. Along the way, there’s a well-timed coffee stop at Can Roca corner bar, a local favorite where the rich aroma of espresso mingles with the sound of laughter and clinking cups—a perfect pause to refuel and soak in the surroundings.

For those who relish a mix of technical challenges and scenic beauty, the Empordà plain Singletrack Challenge delivers in spades. The route includes a dedicated skills coaching stop on the steepest section, helping riders refine their technique before tackling the descent. The Turó de Montgrí looms in the distance, its rugged silhouette a constant reminder of the wild, untamed spirit of this region. Whether you’re a confident beginner or an experienced rider looking for a relaxed yet engaging adventure, this tour offers the perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment. The Empordà plain, with its rolling hills and deep cultural roots, provides the ideal backdrop for an unforgettable mountain biking experience—one where every turn of the pedal reveals another layer of Catalonia’s natural and historic richness.

Ride highlights

• Rock-slab traverses above Fluvià Riverbanks
• Technical singletrack through Empordà plain
• A flowing descent finishing near Madremanya
• A skills coaching stop on the steepest section

How the day unfolds

1. Day 1

   Welcome and shakedown ride

   Bike fit, a short loop into Empordà plain to test the legs, and a welcome dinner in Girona.

2. Day 2

   The big day: Turó de Montgrí

   The toughest stage of the week, taking in Turó de Montgrí and the villages around Empordà plain.

3. Day 3

   Villages of Empordà plain

   A varied day linking Madremanya and the surrounding countryside at a comfortable pace.

4. Day 4

   Rest day or optional ride

   A free day in Girona, or an easy optional spin for anyone who wants to keep the legs moving.

5. Day 5

   Farewell ride

   A short final loop near Fluvià Riverbanks followed by a long lunch before transfers home.

What is included

On the road

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