Ripollès valleys Tarmac Escape

Escape the urban hum and dive into the quiet heart of Catalonia on the Ripollès valleys Tarmac Escape, a self-guided road ride that balances challenge with reward. This full-day adventure unfurls across 55 kilometers of well-maintained tarmac, threading through the rolling green landscapes of the Ripollès valleys. With an elevation gain of 618 meters spread across steady gradients, the route is moderate in difficulty—perfect for riders comfortable with sustained efforts and looking to explore at their own pace. The journey begins in Fornells de la Selva square, where the scent of morning dew still lingers on the air before the first pedal stroke carries you into the countryside.

The climb up Turó de Montgrí is the ride’s standout effort, a steady ascent on clean, smooth roads that reward with panoramic views stretching toward the coast. The effort is tempered by the knowledge of what awaits: a fast, exhilarating descent back toward Girona, where the road unfurls beneath you like a ribbon. Quiet farm lanes wind through the valleys, their surfaces smooth and inviting, while the occasional glint of sunlight on a distant stream adds flecks of brightness to the scene. A highlight comes mid-ride at Espresso Mafía in Ullastret, where the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee provides a welcome pick-me-up.

As the route nears the coast, the Medes Islands Viewpoint offers a dramatic pause, where the jagged rock formations rise from the turquoise sea like ancient sentinels. The final stretch back to Girona is a celebration of the ride’s rhythm—a blend of open roads, gentle gradients, and the satisfying fatigue of a day well spent. The Ripollès valleys Tarmac Escape is ideal for cyclists who crave a mix of solitude and scenic beauty, with enough elevation to feel accomplished without overwhelming difficulty. Whether you’re a seasoned rider seeking a new challenge or someone eager to experience Catalonia’s quieter charms, this route delivers a day of pure, unfiltered cycling joy.

Ride highlights

• A fast, well-surfaced descent back towards Girona
• A coffee stop at Espresso Mafía in Ullastret
• Quiet farm lanes through Ripollès valleys
• The Turó de Montgrí climb with clean tarmac and steady gradients

How the day unfolds

1. 08:30

   Bike fit and coffee

   Meet your guide at Fornells de la Selva square, fit the bike and take on a coffee before rolling out.

2. 09:15

   Into Ripollès valleys

   The first stretch warms the legs on quiet roads towards Ripollès valleys.

3. 10:45

   The Turó de Montgrí section

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

4. 12:30

   Lunch near Ullastret

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

5. 14:30

   Past Medes Islands Viewpoint

   An easier afternoon section taking in Medes Islands Viewpoint.

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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