Have you ever considered Catalonia as a cycling destination? It could just as well become the cycling destination of 2026. This special Spanish region has everything a cycling enthusiast could dream of; almost always beautiful weather, stunning climbs for passionate cyclists, vast plains with gravel roads, authentic villages where you can stop for a break with delicious tapas and of course the cycling capital Girona. Catalonia has always been popular with cyclists, but now that the Grand Depart of the Tour de France in 2026 is planned in Barcelona, it looks like the region will become even more popular among cyclists next year. And that’s not for nothing. In this article, we’ll tell you more about the highlights of Catalonia as a cycling destination. Curious about beautiful routes? Check out the road and gravel routes at the bottom of this article.
Header photo: Castelldara (c) Ziklo
Visit the Grand Départ of the Tour de France in Barcelona
Catalonia will be the setting for the start of the Tour de France in 2026! After the Tour already started in the Spanish cities of San Sebastian (1992) and Bilbao (2023), the next edition in Barcelona will see the first yellow jersey winner celebrated. Are you a fan of Spain and always follow the Tour de France on your feet? Then this is the perfect opportunity to combine those passions! There is really no better chance to see the opening stage with your own eyes; get a nice spot in the city or on the Montjuic and see all the teams come along one by one. The finish takes place at the foot of the Olympic Stadium.
Test your climbing abilities in Val d’Aran
Val d’Aran is the most northwestern point of Catalonia and is located in the heart of the Spanish Pyrenees. With peaks higher than 3,000 meters surrounding the valley, this destination is a hotspot for cyclists who want to venture into the steep climbs of the region. For example, you can here the Port de la Bonaigua and Pla de Beret Climbing, both of whom are known from the Vuelta. Val d’Aran is a special place, with its own culture and language (Aranese), traditional villages and vast nature parks. A perfect destination for nature lovers!
Immerse yourself in the cycling culture of Girona
A visit to Girona should definitely be on your bucket list as a cyclist. This city is considered the cycling capital of Europe. Many professional cyclists (both road and gravel riders) stay in this city for longer periods because of the pleasant climate and the varied landscape with many training opportunities; from uphill climbs on the road to winding gravel roads. There is a certain cycling culture in the city; cyclists meet each other at local bicycle cafes and several leave every week social rides from the center. Be sure to visit La Fabrica – founded by former professional cyclist Christian Meier and his wife. Want to spend the night in a real cycling accommodation? Choose an overnight stay in Rocacorba Cycling.
Discover the endless gravel roads around Lleida
The interior of Catalonia is flat to rolling. The area almost seems ‘forgotten’, when compared to tourist Catalan areas like the Costa Brava, Barcelona or the Pyrenees. For those who don’t like gravel, you might only see the endless olive groves and fields of grain. But that’s exactly where the heart of many gravel bikers races faster. This agricultural landscape with its many unpaved country roads lends itself perfectly to a good gravel ride. gravel adventure. This is where the final of the Gravel Earth Series was held in 2025 (Ranxo Gravel), because routes can still be created here that are almost entirely made of gravel. Because this area attracts less tourism, you really feel like you are in the Authentic Catalonia, with its beautiful authentic villages and old castles. So close to the bustling Barcelona, it really seems as if time has stopped here.
Discover the mountain landscape behind the Costa Daurada
You may know the Costa Daurada from well-known sun holiday destinations like Salou and Cambrils. But did you know that there is a veritable cycling paradise tucked away when you enter the interior? Here you will find the Prades mountain range and behind it the even more rugged Montsant mountain range. The routes and climbs that you can cycle here seem somewhat similar to those in the more southern Costa Blanca. The big difference? The Costa Daurada is much less touristy! However, you will find plenty of facilities here, such as bike-friendly accommodations and options for renting race bikes or gravel bikes.
Travel tips
Looking for route inspiration? We have already explored many routes in the beautiful Catalonia. The routes below are a good start to discovering the beautiful Catalonia. You can also take a look at the Cataluña Komoot page For various road, gravel and mountain biking routes. Below you will find six routes that will immerse you completely in the atmosphere and an additional collection from the Catalan Traffic Agency.
Ruta la Mussara – Costa Dorada
Rute Garriga – Lleida
Long loop – Vall d’Aran
Calella – Montseny
Ruta Pobles Mediavals – Costa Brava
Biosphere Reserve – Terres de l’Ebre
Want to know more about Catalonia?
This article was compiled in collaboration with the Catalan Tourist Board
Questions & tips
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