Cycling in the Green Ways and Country Roads of Girona

If you’re looking for a way to experience Catalonia’s stunning natural scenery and charming historic towns without the hassle of planning every detail, this bike tour in Girona might just be perfect. For around $28.66 per person, you get approximately 7 hours of riding through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the region, including the Garrotxa volcanic national park, the Pyrenees foothills, the serene Banyoles lake, and prehistoric caves around Serinya.

What caught our attention right away are two things: the variety of routes tailored to different skill levels, and the expert guidance — especially the enthusiastic reviews highlighting how knowledgeable and helpful the guides are. The tour offers a fantastic blend of nature, history, and authentic local scenery, which makes it ideal for curious riders looking for an active day.

A possible consideration is the physical demand — while the tour is suitable for all levels, it does require moderate fitness and the ability to cycle comfortably, especially if you opt for the more extensive routes. Also, private transportation isn’t included, so you’ll want to arrive at the meeting point (Serinyà) prepared for your day.

Who is this tour best suited for? If you enjoy cycling in tranquil rural settings, are keen on discovering historic towns like Besalú, or want to see prehistoric caves and volcano landscapes, this experience offers good value and authentic sights. It’s perfect for travelers eager to combine outdoor activity with cultural exploration at a relaxed pace.

Key Points

• Scenic routes for all levels: Whether you prefer a gentle ride or longer adventures, routes are tailored to your ability.
• Rich natural and historic sights: Experience the volcanic landscapes of Garrotxa, medieval Besalú, and prehistoric caves.
• Expert guidance and support: Guides like Gareth provide local insights and helpful navigation tools.
• Flexible options: Route maps, GPS, and different distances make it easy to customize your day.
• All necessary gear included: Helmets, repair kits, and spare inner tubes are provided for peace of mind.
• Authentic small-group experience: The tour is private, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Discovering Girona’s Countryside on Two Wheels

We loved the way this tour combines the best of nature and history in a relaxed, approachable format. The price is quite reasonable when you consider the included gear, support, and the opportunity to explore several different landscapes. What really makes this standout, however, is the guidance — Gareth, the reviewer’s guide, was praised for his local knowledge, making the ride not just scenic but also educational.

The tour begins in Serinyà, a small village with a history dating back centuries, and from here, you’ll choose your adventure. Some might prefer a gentle ride along the GreenWay, which leads to the Banyoles lake — a tranquil spot perfect for cooling off. Others may opt for a more challenging route through the Garrotxa volcanic park, where the landscape is dotted with extinct volcano cones, lush forests, and volcanic rock formations.

One of the most praised aspects from past participants was the variety of routes and the support system in place. The GPS routes and detailed maps help riders navigate confidently, and the emergency backup adds an extra layer of security. This means you can focus on enjoying the scenery rather than worrying about directions or breakdowns.

The stops at Besalú, with its remarkably preserved medieval bridge and architecture, are a highlight for history buffs. Meanwhile, the prehistoric caves around Serinya are another unique feature — they contain some of the oldest caves in Spain, offering a peek into early human life. One reviewer mentioned, “I loved the local color Gareth provided, along with the detailed descriptions of the routes,” emphasizing how guides make a difference in enriching the experience.

The end of the tour offers a chance to cool off in Banyoles lake or relax at the hotel Mas Pelegri pool. This thoughtful touch helps balance activity with relaxation and makes the day feel complete.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Morning Start: The tour kicks off in Serinyà, where bikes are fitted and safety gear provided. You’ll meet your guide and receive route maps and GPS devices. The initial stretches are gentle, ideal for warming up and getting accustomed to your bike.

First Stop: The GreenWay & Banyoles Lake
You’ll ride along quiet, well-maintained trails that wind through Catalonia’s lush countryside. The GreenWay, in particular, is popular for its smooth surface and peaceful scenery, making it suitable for all levels. Once at Banyoles lake, you get a break for photos or a quick swim, depending on your preference. Past riders appreciated the opportunity to cool off in the lake at the end of their ride, saying it was a “perfect way to unwind after cycling.”

Second Stop: Medieval Besalú
This enchanting town is a highlight, with cobbled streets, a medieval bridge, and ancient stone buildings. The guide might share stories about its history, adding depth to the visit. Many reviews note how Besalú feels like stepping back in time, and the ride there is on quiet country roads, avoiding busy traffic.

Third Stop: The Volcanic Landscapes & Prehistoric Caves
For those opting for the longer routes, you’ll explore Garrotxa’s volcanic cones and forests. The caves at Serinya are a fascinating stop — among the oldest prehistoric caves in Spain, with a history that predates recorded time. The guide’s insights make these sites come alive, and many appreciate the chance to see something truly unique.

End of the Day: After a full day of cycling, it’s time to relax either in Banyoles lake or at the hotel pool. The relaxed pace and scenic stops ensure you finish feeling fulfilled yet not exhausted.

Authenticity and Value

Given the price point of $28.66, you’re getting a fair deal considering the bike rental, support gear, guided support, and the variety of sights. The personalized nature of the tour, being a private activity, means you won’t be lost in a crowd — which is rare and valuable in busy tourist destinations.

The reviews reinforce the value, with Bonnie_M capping it off as an “idyllic country bike experience,” and highlighting the guide’s ability to make the day both fun and informative. The small-group/private setup allows for flexibility and makes it easy to ask questions or adjust the route if needed.

This is a tour that balances active exploration with cultural discovery — perfect for those who want more than just scenery but also a taste of local history and geology. The inclusion of detailed maps, GPS, and backup means even those unfamiliar with cycling in new terrain can enjoy peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys moderate physical activity in beautiful natural settings, this trip fits well. It’s suitable for all levels, but you should be comfortable on a bike and able to ride for several hours. History buffs will appreciate the stops at Besalú and the prehistoric caves. Nature lovers will love the volcano landscapes and lakes, while those craving a quiet, scenic escape will find it ideal.

Travelers who value local insights and small-group experiences will find this tour particularly rewarding. If your goal is a balanced day of biking, sightseeing, and relaxing, this experience offers excellent value.

FAQ

Does the tour include transportation?
No, private transportation is not included. You will meet at the Serinyà bus stop, and the tour ends back there, with transfers to the hotel at an extra cost if needed.

What’s included in the bike rental?
The rental includes a helmet, spare inner tube, repair kit, and pump — all the essentials for a safe day on two wheels.

Are routes suitable for beginners?
Yes, different routes are offered for various abilities, from 10 km to 200 km. All levels are welcome, but moderate physical fitness is recommended.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s a private activity for your group, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed pace.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for cycling, sun protection, and water. The tour provides gear, but snacks and personal items are up to you.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, GPS routes and maps are provided, allowing some flexibility. Discuss your preferences with the guide.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While not explicitly stated, the scenery and outdoor activity suggest spring through early fall are ideal, avoiding extreme heat or cold.

Is it suitable for families?
While suitable for all levels, children should be comfortable cycling for hours. Check with the provider if you have young children.

What happens if I can’t finish the route?
Support is available along the way, and the backup system helps if you encounter issues.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
No, the experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

Final Thoughts

This Girona bike tour offers an appealing mix of scenic beauty, historical intrigue, and outdoor activity, all at a very accessible price. The expert guidance and well-supported routes make it a reliable choice, especially for travelers wanting to enjoy Catalonia’s diverse landscapes without the hassle of planning each detail. Whether you’re cycling past volcanic cones in Garrotxa, strolling through medieval Besalú, or relaxing lakeside, you’ll find that this experience delivers genuine, memorable moments.

Ideal for those who want an active day out, small groups or private experiences, and authentic sights far from the usual tourist crowds. This tour balances adventure and relaxation, making it a perfect fit for active, curious travelers eager to see a different side of Girona.

Note: Always double-check current availability and specifics directly with the provider before booking, especially considering seasonal variations or personal health considerations.