Monells Road Getaway

The Monells Road Getaway is a challenging but rewarding full-day ride that takes you deep into the Empordà plain, where quiet farm lanes and rolling terrain offer a perfect escape from city life. Starting at Girona’s historic Pont de Pedra, you’ll quickly leave urban surroundings behind, climbing onto the Sant Julià de Ramis ridge, where the panoramic views stretch endlessly across Catalonia’s fertile countryside. This is a ride for experienced cyclists who relish a hard but scenic challenge—133 kilometers of tarmac with 3,136 meters of elevation gain, all on roads so peaceful you might forget you’re in one of Spain’s most beautiful cycling regions. The route is all about rhythm and endurance, with long stretches of smooth, empty tarmac that let you settle into a steady pace.

One of the highlights of the journey is the medieval village of Monells, a postcard-perfect stop where time seems to stand still. Its narrow, stone-paved streets and ivy-clad arches are best explored after a well-earned coffee at La Xicra, a charming café where the rich aroma of freshly ground beans and the hum of relaxed conversation provide a moment of respite. From here, the ride continues along the Ter River Greenway, a scenic stretch of path that winds through lush landscapes, offering a mix of gentle descents and gradual climbs that keep the legs engaged without ever feeling overwhelming. The back roads of the Empordà plain are a cyclist’s dream—almost zero traffic, just the occasional farmer tending to fields or the rustle of the wind through sunlit vines.

The return leg of the ride brings you back through Monells, where the golden light of late afternoon casts long shadows across the ancient stone buildings, creating a timeless atmosphere that makes the effort of the ride feel worthwhile. The quiet farm lanes of the Empordà plain, now bathed in soft evening light, offer one last stretch of serene cycling before you descend back toward Girona. This is a ride that rewards patience and perseverance, with every meter of elevation gain and every quiet kilometer of tarmac paying off in breathtaking views, rich flavors, and the deep satisfaction of conquering a true cycling challenge.

Ride highlights

• The medieval streets of Monells on the way home
• Panoramic views over Ter River Greenway
• Quiet farm lanes through Empordà plain
• A coffee stop at La Xicra in Monells
• Almost zero traffic on the Empordà plain back roads

How the day unfolds

1. 08:30

   Bike fit and coffee

   Meet your guide at Pont de Pedra, Girona, fit the bike and take on a coffee before rolling out.

2. 09:15

   Into Empordà plain

   The first stretch warms the legs on quiet roads towards Empordà plain.

3. 10:45

   The Sant Julià de Ramis ridge section

   The main effort of the day, with the guide setting a steady, sustainable pace.

4. 12:30

   Lunch near Monells

   A relaxed stop for food in or near Monells, with the bikes in view.

5. 14:30

   Past Ter River Greenway

   An easier afternoon section taking in Ter River Greenway.

6. 16:30

   Return to Girona

   A final flowing stretch back into the city with a drink waiting on arrival.

What is included

On the road

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