The organizers of the Grand Tour Catalunya Gravel They have launched a completely new self-guided gravel round through Catalonia. The route is 2,500 kilometers long, has 42 stages divided over five sections, and totals about 45,000 meters of elevation gain. That’s not a short round in the weekend, but here you can enjoy it for days, weeks, or even months.
Modular design
The concept is modular: you can start at any point, drive at your own pace, and basically take in sections of the route as you go along. The stages range from 37 to 86 kilometers, making them accessible to gravel riders who don’t necessarily want to hit 150 km per day. According to the organizers, the emphasis is on gravel trails, greenways, and traffic-free connections. A look at the first stage (Barcelona–Terrassa, 54 km, 1,300 m) provides an indication: 54% gravel, 35% asphalt, 11% cycle path or bike lane.
From Barcelona to the Pyrenees and back
The route is a circular route that starts and ends in Barcelona. From the city it goes through the vineyards of Penedès and the coast at Sitges direction Tarragona, by going to the Ebro Delta and through the interior to Lleida. Then the route climbs into the Pyrenees towards the summit. La Seu d’Urgell. Then you pass the Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park. Then you descend again via Girona and Costa Brava to Figueres. The final stage takes you back to Plaça Catalunya via Collserola Natural Park and the Passeig de les Aigües. There is hardly a more beautiful way to get home.
The route includes the coast, vineyards, volcanic landscape in the Garrotxa region and the Pyrenees in one continuous gravel trail.
Digital passport and logistical support
The creators of this route have developed a digital passport. In this passport you will find 200 interactive checkpoints along the route. Additionally, partner agencies offer support for multi-day trips, including bike-friendly accommodations and luggage transportation.
You could just as easily make it a complete bikepacking trip as five separate gravel weeks spread over a few seasons.
Want to learn more about Catalonia and the grape varieties? On our Cycling in Catalonia You can find more information on the page!
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