Road cycling: Perelada - Cadaques - Banyuls-sur-Mer
If you are in la Costa Brava, you must bring your bike and go for a ride. There are hundreds of routes for roadbikes, mountain bike, gravel bike, touring, etc. No matter what you like, Costa Brava has many routes for you.
About la Costa Brava
La Costa Brava is a coastal region located in the northeastern part of Spain, in the region of Catalonia. It stretches along the Mediterranean Sea from the French border to the north of Barcelona.
Is one of the main summer and weekend destination for Barcelonian’s and French’s. Costa Brava is famous for its beautiful beaches, with crystal-clear water and white sand. Natural parks, like Cap de Creus Natural Park (which the route below crosses), Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park, and Montgrí, Medes Islands, and Baix Ter Natural Park.
The Costa Brava is home to many historical sites. You will discover medieval castles and towns, Roman ruins, and prehistoric sites. The most famous sites are the ruins of the ancient Roman city of Empúries and the medieval town of Pals.
Of course the food in Spain never disapoints, and Costa Brava is one of my favourites places. Fresh seafood and local vegetables are easy to enjoy almost anywhere.
And finally, Costa Brava is just a Paradise for cyclists. It has everything any cycling aficionado loves, from coastal roads to challenging mountain climbs.
The Route: Perelada - Cadaques - Banyuls sur Mer
This route will give a good taste of the Costa Brava concentrated in 110km. It starts with an easy flat until Castello d’Empuries and Roses. From there you head straight in to the first climb accros the Cap de Creus national park until one of the most beautiful towns around: Cadaques.
From Cadaques, you’ll head north towards Port de la Selva where the costal road starts. A beautiful road with an amazing views of the Mediterranean Sea and some great beach village perfect for a coffee break.
Once we reach France and the town of Banyuls sur Mer, is time to head back to Perelada, this time the road will take you inland through the National park of l’Albera.
Last things to keep in mind
Is a challenging road with many hills and beautiful scenery. We recommend avoiding the high summer season for 2 reasons: It get really hot and some of the roads get very busy. Perfect time to go is March to June and from end of September until November.