Girona’s cycling climbs are varied and beautiful; they’re one of the reasons Girona, and the Costa Brava, is a mecca for professional and amateur cyclists alike.
The opportunity to take on so many rewarding climbs is why it is also one of our all-time favourite places to ride.
In this article, we’ve rounded up our pick of the best cycling climbs in the Girona Costa Brava region. From Girona’s popular Els Àngels and the notoriously steep Rocacorba, to lesser-known gems such as the Coll de Condreu, there should be something for everyone.
You’ll also find info on some of the Costa Brava’s gorgeous smaller towns you could consider basing yourself in to ride the climbs. After all, a city-based holiday is not for all (even when it’s a beauty, like Girona)!
Sound good? Read on and get ready to add these Girona cycling climbs to your bucket list…
Thanks to the Patronat de Turisme Costa Brava Girona for sponsoring this article.
They are keen to ensure cyclists know that their region is fantastic for cycling. The climbs we highlight here demonstrate the range of cycling Girona and the Costa Brava offer – so enjoy!
All metrics in this article are approximate.
Summary of the best cycling climbs in Girona and the Costa Brava
| Length of climb: | Average gradient: | |
| Els Àngels | 11km | 3% |
| Santa Pellaia | 6km | 3% |
| Sant Martí Sacalm | 9km | 7% |
| Rocacorba | 13 km | 7% |
| Sant Grau | 7km | 6% |
| Mare de Déu del Mont | 18km | 5% |
| Coll de Condreu |
12km | 4% |
| Coll de Bracons | 8km | 8% |
| Turó de l’Home | 25km | 6% |
| Sant Pere de Rodes | 9km | 6% |
| Vallter 2000 | 12km | 7% |
| Coll de la Creueta | 21km | 5% |
12 best cycling climbs in Girona Costa Brava
Els Àngels (from Girona)
Key statistics
| Distance from the centre of Girona: | 4km |
| Length of climb: | 11km |
| Average gradient: | 3% |
| Elevation gain: | 430m |
Notes
Best for: A classic Girona cycling climb that’s short, easy and close to Girona
Els Àngels is a popular climb that is conveniently located just a stone’s throw from Girona. It is famous for being popular with former Girona-based cyclist Lance Armstrong, who used it as a regular training route. We think it makes a great warm up climb for tougher climbs near Girona, or for a gentle recovery ride option.
The Els Àngels climb begins with a delightfully smooth road that winds its way through pleasant woodland, on a gentle average gradient of 3.3%. This steady climb is nice and varied, with some straight sections and switchbacks, as well a couple of downhills. For the fit and experienced road cyclist it is easy to cruise up.
The highlight is emerging from the woodland to be greeted by the Santuari dels Àngels cross. For the full climb experience, we suggest turning left and heading a little further up the road (an extra 500 metres) to the Monastery which has panoramic views of Girona and the impressive surrounding countryside. This is the stunning spot where Dalí married Gala. The snack counter there also makes a great pit-stop for a quick refuel!
More information
Want to turn this Girona climb into a loop ride? Take a look at our Els Àngels, Girona Loop.
Santa Pellaia
Key statistics
| Distance from the centre of Girona: | 14km |
| Length of climb: | 6km |
| Average gradient: | 3% |
| Elevation gain: | 210m |
Notes
Best for: A gentle climb on peaceful roads
Santa Pellaia is another steady climb. It’s located south-east of Girona and takes you through Girona’s lush, green landscapes, weaving through a patchwork of farmland and fragrant forests.
From your start point at Cassà de la Selva, the road up to Santa Pellaia is generally pretty quiet (especially mid-week) and the gentle gradient and short six kilometre ascent makes this an achievable challenge for riders of all levels. The tree canopy provides lots of shade making it a perfect option for hot days in the summer months. At the top you’ll encounter the medieval church of Santa Pellaia and great views of the distant mountains.
More information
Want to stay outside Girona? Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar are lovely places to stay on the coast, with good access to Santa Pellaia.
Sant Martí Sacalm
Key statistics
| Distance from the centre of Girona: | 26km |
| Length of climb: | 9km |
| Average gradient: | 7% |
| Elevation gain: | 606m |
Notes
Best for: A moderate, steady climb that gives a real flavour of rural Catalonia
Sant Martí Sacalm is a picturesque climb that takes you into the heart of the rural Catalan countryside, giving you a real feel for this beautiful region.
The road surface on the cycle climb is smooth, making it ideal for a comfortable ride to the top.
The quiet, winding road from Amer to the summit features a relatively moderate, steady ascent up to the summit which is never so steep that it’s unpleasant.
Once you reach the top the small village of Sant Martí Sacalm awaits. There’s a handy café for a quick pit stop and breather, before your rewarding descent.
Top tip! The road doesn’t level at all, so settle in at your preferred pace and enjoy the peaceful countryside and views as you ascend!
More information
Want to stay outside Girona? Caldes de Malavella is a relaxing town to stay in to ride Sant Martí Sacalm. Once you’ve finished the climb, head to a spa and relax in the thermal waters!
Rocacorba
Key statistics
| Distance from the centre of Girona: | 27km |
| Length of climb: | 13km |
| Average gradient: | 7% (max. 15%) |
| Elevation gain: | 800m |
Notes
Best for: A steep, challenging, iconic climb loved by the pros; probably Girona’s most famous cycling climb
Cycling Rocacorba is a must-do for serious cyclists visiting Girona. It’s one of Girona’s steepest cycling climbs. Get ready for some extremely demanding gradients, especially near the summit!
The Rocacorba climb has earned itself legendary status in Girona. Over the years it has become a favourite for serious cyclists. It has attracted several big cycling names such as Dan Martin and Bradley Wiggins, who have been lured to set new records on its iconic slopes. Businesses have even named themselves after it…
The beginning of the climb starts from Banyoles with an average gradients of around 5.7% and takes you up through the trees. After about three kilometres you’ll get a little respite before things get spicy, with average gradients of 9.5% for the next four kilometres ensuring you’ll work up a sweat.
After a short respite, it’s on to the final push with gradient’s ranging from 8% up to 15% – and you start to see why Rocacorba is considered by some as one of the hardest cycling climbs in the world! This really is a climb for cyclists who love to push themselves, with nothing at the summit other than a large telecoms mast and dramatic views.
Top tip! Set off early to avoid the midday heat and traffic and take snacks to keep you fuelled along the way. Also, take care on the descent as the road surface is not in the best condition.
More information
Take a look at our Rocacorba Girona guide for more details.
Want to stay outside Girona? Banyoles, near the shore of Lake Banyoles with its myriad of water sports opportunities, is close to Rocacorba.
Sant Grau (from the coastal road)
Key statistics
| Distance from the centre of Girona: | 32km |
| Length of climb: | 7km |
| Average gradient: | 6% |
| Elevation gain: | 398m |
Notes
Best for: Soaking up epic coastal views from the saddle
The Sant Grau climb starts in the coastal town of Tossa de Mar. This fortified medieval town is packed with cafés and restaurants so it’s a great place to leave your non-cycling other half for a few hours, or for a refreshing pick-me-up after your day in the saddle!
From the town you will enjoy a blissful rolling coastal road with incredible views out over the turquoise ocean and crystal-clear bays below you. At the turn off for Sant Grau, the climb begins on a secluded and peaceful road that winds up through woodland and boasts magnificent coastal views the whole way up.
The climb is relatively steady, though there are some steeper sections to keep things interesting! The last short stretch is a particular leg burner, so save some energy for that. The Sant Grau Monastery is just before the summit and it’s worth a pit stop. The pleasant courtyard features a small bar and restaurant – perfect for a well-earned, refreshing drink!
For us, the coastal splendour of Sant Grau makes it one of the great Girona cycling climbs, which epitomises why Girona makes such a great cycling holiday.
More information
Take a look at our Cycling Costa Brava Coastline (Via Sant Grau) Loop, Girona.
Want to stay outside Girona? Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar are great coastal towns, with good access to Sant Grau.
Mare de Déu del Mont
Key statistics
| Distance from the centre of Girona: | 36km |
| Length of climb: | 18km |
| Average gradient: | 5% (max. 14%) |
| Elevation gain: | 1,000m |
Notes
Best for: The chance to tackle one of Girona’s hardest cycling climbs
The Mare de Déu del Mont climb begins at the N260 road in Cabanelles, next to Can Vilà restaurant. The gradients are pretty gentle to begin with at around 5.4% as you ride through the forest, with little else to see other than trees.
As you progress into the climb, (about 3.5 kilometres from the summit), you start to catch glimpses through the trees of the expansive views beyond. You may also spy the Santuari de la Mare de Déu del Mont, a gorgeous old monastery at the top of the climb.
Be warned! This is one of Girona’s toughest cycling climbs and the last couple of kilometres get pretty steep. Cyclists can expect an average gradient of 9.2%, peaking at 14%. However, as you crest the climb the trees finally give way to immense views of the surrounding landscapes – we found that these vistas helped to distract from the pain in the legs!
Once at the top of the climb you can drink in the panoramic views with a beverage from the bar and prepare yourself for the steep descent to come. It’s quite a thrill – but do take care as it is also very narrow.
More information
Take a look at our Mare de Déu del Mont Loop, Girona.
Want to stay outside Girona? Banyoles, close to pretty Lake Banyoles, is a great place to stay if you want to ride Mare de Déu del Mont. It’s also closer to the foot of the climb.
Coll de Condreu
Key statistics
| Distance from the centre of Girona: | 46km |
| Length of climb: | 12km |
| Average gradient: | 4% |
| Elevation gain: | 530m |
Notes
Best for: A gentle climb through the scenic Garrotxa region
This 12 kilometre climb starts in Sant Esteve d’en Bas where it gently snakes its way gently up through lush green landscapes of fields and forests. The gradient of this climb is steady throughout, making it a relatively gentle climb to tackle.
Smooth roads that are generally traffic free add to the relaxed feel of this climb. There is also a conveniently placed restaurant at the summit of the climb where you can refuel.
More information
Want to stay outside Girona? Vall d’en Bas, Olot or Santa Pau are great options for a local, authentic experience.
Coll de Bracons
Key statistics
| Distance from the centre of Girona: | 47km |
| Length of climb: | 8.4km |
| Average gradient: | 8% |
| Elevation gain: | 660m |
Notes
Best for: A challenging climb to test yourself on
Volcanic landscapes are your base for the Coll de Bracons cycling climb. If you start the climb from Can Trona you’ll wind through farmers’ fields before you get to the start of the proper climb.
The gradient towards the start and end are particularly demanding so make sure you’re comfortable in double digits and pace yourself.
The climb weaves through dense woodland with plenty of opportunities for shade as you climb.
This is a relatively quiet, peaceful climb with not much along the way, or at the summit. Be sure to stock up on supplies before you set off so you can enjoy a refuel at the top.
More information
Want to stay outside Girona? Vall d’en Bas, Olot or Santa Pau are good options if you want to be closer to the Bracons climb and experience the stunning Garrotxa area of the Costa Brava.
Coll de Bracons (Credit: ©Batista & Sans, CBGTB Image Archive)
Turó de l’Home (from Arbúcies)
Key statistics
| Distance from the centre of Girona: | 55km |
| Length of climb: | 25km |
| Average gradient: | 6% |
| Elevation gain: | 1500m |
Notes
Best for: A tough mountain climb with hefty elevation gain
This climb is one of Girona’s lesser-known cycling climbs, but it’s worth a look.
Turó de l’Home means “mountain of man” in Catalonian and this climb has more elevation gain than any other road climb in the Girona region!
The climb starts in the quaint village of Arbúcies. From here, you’ll begin by winding up through the Montseny Natural Park, through pleasant woodland. As you climb the gradient gradually intensifies with some particularly steep sections nearer the summit.
Top tip! This great cycling climb is best tackled from late spring to autumn. Its high elevation means snowfall can close the roads during winter. If you’re planning to take it on in winter, check the conditions ahead of tackling this climb. Take a windproof jacket, no matter what time of year, for the big descent.
More information
Want to stay outside Girona? The shady, tree-lined promenades make Caldes de Malavella a nice place to stay to ride Turó de l’Home. You can sample the thermal waters while you’re there!
Sant Pere de Rodes (from Port de la Selva)
Key statistics
| Distance from the centre of Girona: | 71km |
| Length of climb: | 9km |
| Average gradient: | 6% |
| Elevation gain: | 510m |
Notes
Best for: A challenging climb featuring a grand Monastery with breathtaking coastal views
The beautiful Sant Pere de Rodes climb is based in the heart of the Rodes Mountains and takes you to one of Girona’s most impressive hilltop monasteries.
From your starting point in El Port de la Selva, the road up usually features little traffic, but can be a real test of your stamina thanks to some slightly steeper gradients (reaching up to 8% in parts) earlier on in the climb. Nearer the summit the gradients ease off and the views over the surrounding coastline make up for the earlier challenges of the ride.
Your reward at the top of the climb is the Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes. These impressive buildings are an excellent example of Catalan Romanesque architecture, and they stand proudly overlooking the gorgeous Cap de Creus peninsula.
Top tip! The climb can be a bit windy so be prepared for changing weather conditions and take a windproof jacket, just in case.
More information
Want to stay outside Girona? Check out the charming coastal town of Roses.
Vallter 2000
Key statistics
| Distance from the centre of Girona: | 95km |
| Length of climb: | 12.2km |
| Average gradient: | 7% |
| Elevation gain: | 1,100m |
Notes
Best for: the highest cycling road in Catalunya
The ski resort of Vallter 2000 stands over 2,144 metres above sea level and is located in the eastern Pyrenees. It offers a challenging day out on the bikes for riders seeking to conquer a seriously tough climb.
With an average gradient of 8% (that rarely lets up) and some long kilometres to conquer, this climb is certainly going to test your climbing legs!
Setting off from Setcases you’re heading in the direction of the big mountain peaksl. This scenery on this ride is what sets this climb apart from others listed above; it feels very different to the rolling green landscapes and coastline found elsewhere in the Girona Costa Brava region.
Top tip! Be prepared for sudden changes in weather. The altitude can affect some riders, so take it slow and steady. Snowfall may affect the road conditions so check ahead of cycling.
More information
Want to stay outside Girona? Vall d’en Bas, Olot or Santa Pau are great options in the (extinct) volcanic Garrotxa region where you can have a memorable stay.
Coll de la Creueta
Statistics
| Distance from the centre of Girona: | 162km |
| Length of climb: | 21km |
| Average gradient: | 5% |
| Elevation gain: | 770m |
Notes
Best for: A tough route boasting epic mountain vistas
Located near the border with France, this ride is our furthest one from Girona (and well past our 100 kilometre radius!). However, the incredible views you will savour from the saddle make getting to it worth it; in fact we think it’s one of Girona’s most epic cycling climbs.
Starting in the town of Alp, riders face a lengthy, steady climb up to the summit. The spectacular views on the way up just get better and better as you ascend and the road winds through beautiful mountainous landscapes.
This is a lengthy climb for cyclists with a good level of fitness and endurance. Don’t forget to take plenty of water and snacks to keep you fuelled along the way.
Where to stay (outside Girona)
While Girona is the best-known destination on the Costa Brava, it gets quite busy and there can be a fair amount of cycling required to get out of the city.
Above, we’ve mentioned some of the lovely alternatives to Girona, that give great access to the climbs.
A lot has already been written about Girona. Below, we share a bit more detail on the other towns mentioned above.
Banyoles
Banyoles and the surrounding Pla de l’Estany boasts over 80 sports facilities hosting 22 different types of sport, including rowing, canoeing, cycling and mountain biking, swimming, triathlon and running. There are over 40 sports activity providers in the area.
Banyoles has a long tradition of sport. It holds around 60 sporting events per year, of which at least 17 are international level competitions. It was one of the venues for the 1992 Olympic Games, it organised the World Rowing Championship in 2004, the European University Rowing Championship in 2007, the World Rowing Cup in 2009 and the Banyoles ITU Triathlon Premium European Cup in 2011.
Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar
Located on the Mediterranean coastline, Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar each make a popular base for cyclists. You can challenge yourself through hills and mountain passes, then relax in cycling-friendly accommodation.
The roads in this area are great for cyclists, with an array of options, from rouleur to queen stages with climbs to hors catégorie mountain passes. The wooded hillsides that surround the towns conceal a hidden treasure for mountain bike lovers: kilometre after kilometre of tracks and trails with constant elevation changes, ideal for practicing your technical skills.
Caldes de Malavella
Caldes de Malavella is named for its healing thermal waters, making it a main attraction in the Selva area. Visitors can relax in spas, enjoy walks through nature, Roman ruins, and unique ancient homes. Be sure to try the 56°C thermal water from Raig d’en Mel!
The Espai Aquae museum, with nine exhibition spaces, offers insights into the town’s natural and cultural history.
Roses
Due to its location between two natural parks and the Mediterranean Sea, Roses is the ideal place to enjoy nature through all sorts of water sports and to discover a coastline full of contrasts, with cliffs, hidden coves with crystalline waters and long, shallow, sandy beaches.
Olot
Olot occupies a special position, located between four (extinct!) volcanoes. It’s the capital of Garrotxa and dubbed the volcano capital.
The city offers greenways, modernist trails, defence towers, and the El Carme convent. Visit in September to catch the main Festival of Tura. You’ll enjoy a spectacle of dancing giants and large heads, along with knights in the main square, creating unforgettable memories.
Santa Pau
Santa Pau, also located in Garrotxa, is full of medieval charm – from walls and arcaded squares to a castle and winding cobbled streets. The town is close to a vast shady beech forest, Fageda d’en Jordà, and remarkable volcanic sites like the Santa Margarida and Croscat volcanoes. It’s a beautiful place to visit – and stay a few nights.
La Vall d’en Bas
La Vall d’en Bas is a charming rural area with hills, green meadows, churches, and villages like Els Hostalets d’en Bas. It’s the place to stay for a rural retreat.
Practicalities for cycling in Girona
Girona cycling climbs map
Patronat de Turisme Costa Brava Girona have prepared this useful cycling climbs map which shows the location of all the climbs mentioned above.
The cycling pages of their website are also full of useful information.
When to visit
The best time to visit Girona for cycling is during the warm spring and autumn months, from April to June and September to October. The mild sunny climate during these periods means the weather is generally good, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius.
Summer can be hot, with temperatures often reaching over 30 degrees Celsius, while winter is cool but still manageable for cycling, especially if you enjoy the crisp air.
As previously mentioned, for some of the high altitude climbs, conditions in the mountains may be snowy with road closures. Always check before you set off and factor this into your planning.
Organised tours
Girona is an easy destination to organise your own cycling trip. The roads here are generally quiet and there are plenty of cycling routes to choose from, as you can see above! Cyclists who enjoy the freedom and flexibility of planning their own trip will find this a great base.
However, organised tours offer many benefits such as local knowledge, logistical and practical support, as well as camaraderie. The good news is there are lots of bike tour options to choose from in Girona.
Packing tips
All good Girona cycling trips start with a good quality road bike!
Bring your own or, to avoid some stress, hire one locally. If you do choose to hire a bike make sure you book this in advance to avoid any disappointment – remember, it’s a very popular place for cyclists.
Alongside your usual cycling gear, we suggest packing warm layers, including a lightweight jacket, as temperatures can vary, especially at higher elevations. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also crucial for sun protection during the warmer months.
Girona also has many bike shops for hiring bikes and servicing them, so you can easily arrange repairs if you run into any issues.
Shop and restaurant opening hours in and around Girona
In Girona and the surrounding areas, shops and cycling cafés typically open around 9 or 10am in the morning and close for a few hours during the afternoon siesta. They then typically reopen again later in the afternoon, until about 8 or 9pm in the evening.
Restaurants often follow a similar schedule, opening for lunch around 1pm and for dinner around 8pm. It’s advisable to plan your meals and shopping around these times!
Do you need to speak Spanish?
English is widely understood in tourist areas.
Alongside Spanish, you will notice many people in Girona also speak Catalan. Basic Spanish or Catalan phrases can be useful, but you can generally get by with English, especially in the main cycling hubs.
Complying with the Spanish highway code
Cyclists in Spain must follow the highway code, which includes obeying traffic signals and riding in single file when necessary.
Reflective clothing is required when riding in low visibility conditions, and cyclists must use bike lights during times of reduced visibility. Helmets are mandatory outside urban areas, except during hot weather or on steep climbs.
It’s also important to stay on designated cycling paths when these are available.
Other useful info for a Girona cycling trip
We love Girona and have a wealth of content that will help you plan your cycling trip here. The following articles are a good place to start:
- How to plan a cycling route
- Easy cycling routes in/around Girona
- Gravel cycling Girona
- 72 hours in Girona Costa Brava
- Guide to cycling Girona
We hope this article has you feeling inspired to take on some of the best cycling climbs in Europe, found right here in Girona!
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Clare Dewey is a cyclist with a passion for travel. She set up epicroadrides.com in 2018 to help make it easy for cyclists to explore the world by bike. Today her mission is still inspiring cyclists to discover new places on two wheels – and doing what she can to make sure they have the best possible time while they’re there. Clare has visited 50+ destinations around the world, many of them by bike.
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