Catalan Volcanic Region gravel tour

Created by our very own Chris, who cut his teeth in MTB, this stunning route from Haut Vallespir in France crosses the Spanish border into Catalunya, exploring the Alt Emporda region, famous for wine, and the extinct volcanic region of Alta Garrotxa, stopping off at the towns of Besalu, Olot and Camprodon on the way. While some small sections of the tour are on tarmac, this is not one for beginners to gravel, but a true adventure for more experienced gravel or MTB riders of high technical ability off-road,   who want to do a point to point tour without having to carry luggage (though if you want to bike pack, you can!)

Starting at Pyrenees Cycling Club, you can choose to be accompanied on the ride or to complete the loop self-guided. We handle the accommodation, luggage taxis and logistics, all you have to do is get here and ride! 

Day 1: Arrival at Pyrenees Cycling Club 

You can arrive under your own steam, or we can collect you (see below for details of pick up locations). After setting up the bikes and a tour of the garden, 

a hearty, home cooked meal awaits you before a comfortable night's sleep.

Day 2: Pyrenees Cycling Club to Macanet de Cabrenys

35km, 750m elev

You will start the day with Vicky's favourite 'magic road', an average 4% gradient which, bizarrely, looks steeper than it feels to your legs! A quiet, snooth tarmac road to the Col de Coustouges, before joining the gravel and some fabulous single track to the door of your hotel for the night, hidden away on in the forest outside the village of Macanet.

Day 3: Macanet de Cabrenys to Besalu

54km, 1,046m elev

A lumpy, bumpy day that will truly earn you that hot meal and beer at the end of it! Starting along the banks of the Boadella (reservoir) d'Emporda, you will catch glimpses of the lake as you ride through pine trees and olive groves. You will barely see a soul as you wind your way south on secluded tracks before reaching the pretty, ancient town of Besalu. A family run hotel, your home for the night, overlooks the impressive arched bridge, believed to have been originally built in the 11th century. 

Day 4: Besalu to Olot

41km, 956m elev

A challenging day awaits as we enter the volcanic region of Alta Garrotxa. Popular with mountain bikers, this route will put your skills and stamina to the test as the gradient peaks out at a lung busting 21% in the middle section of the ride. Don't worry if you have to push, the only on-lookers might be the odd goat or donkey!

The town of Olot, capital of the Garrotxa region, awaits you with a fascinating history of art and industry.

Day 5: Olot to Camprodon

36km, 951m elev

A shorter distance. but tough - you will spend most of the day climbing with the gradient maxing out at nearly 15% in a couple of places. The climb gets more gentle and steady as you near the beautiful town of Camprodon, home of the 'galleta' biscuits and the famous Birba biscuit factory. Another stunning mediaeval bridge to admire and some excellent coffee shops to enjoy.

Day 6: Camprodon to Pyrenees Cycling Club

49km, 883m elev

The final day starts with (another!) steep off-road climb to the top of the Col d'Ares where we cross the border back into France, descending through Lamanere, the most southerly village in France, before descnding further back to the level of the River Tech and the final short climb back to Pyrenees Cycling Club!

You can add extra days to your stay if you would like to stay on at Pyrenees Cycling Club and explore the Haut Vallespir and Mediterranean Pyrenees, either before or after the tour. If you arrive by car you can leave it, free of charge, at Pyrenees Cycling Club too.