Tour tips
The 115 existing kilometres of "Vias Verdes" in the province of Girona are divided into three easy to moderately difficult stages of between 40 and 50 kilometres. They connect Ripoll in the pre-Pyrenees with San Feliu de Guixols on the Costa Brava. These stages are mainly on car-free cycle paths.
To the west of Girona in particular, there is also a branched network of roads with little traffic, which allows for endless variations. Particularly worthwhile detours directly from the cycle path: the "Xenacs" viewpoint behind Las Presas (over 400 metres uphill) and the "Embalse de Susqueda" reservoir, south-east of Amer.
Character
Generally almost level paths on the routes of former railway lines. The surface is mostly tamped earth with fine chippings, occasionally asphalt. One major ascent (350 metres in altitude, around 7 percent) on a road with little traffic. Some sections are particularly family and disabled-friendly. Perfect infrastructure and thorough signposting. Suspension is superfluous.
Best time to travel
Mid-April to mid-June, September and October. In the second half of the year, the weather is more stable and visibility is clearer.
Arrival
Train: via Barcelona to Ripoll for around 8 euros, several times a day, bikes can be taken. Return journey: from the coast either by bus (buses operated by the company Teisa) or by bike to Girona, from there by train. Timetables under http://www.renfe.com
Plane: Ryanair flies directly from Frankfurt-Hahn to Girona. Otherwise, fly to Barcelona and take the train to Ripoll.
Accommodation
Accommodation tips especially for cyclists can be found in the "Vias Verdes" road book (see "Literature"). Inland hotels are slightly cheaper than in Germany.
Food
In the less touristy Ripoll, the restaurant of the Hotel Solana del Ter, located a little south of the town on the C 17 road, surprised us with a delicious three-course menu for 18 euros.
Bike stations/bike hire
There are several bike shops and hire stations along the way. There are even hand bikes for the disabled. The "Greenways Guide" will help you.
Literature/Maps
Consorci Vias Verdes de Girona (ed.): Greenways Guide; English, 8 euros, available from tourist information centres and bookshops along the route. The booklet not only describes the route in detail, but also gives tips on worthwhile detours. Numerous additional information. It is completely sufficient to complete the tour. We did not come across a topographical map recommended for cyclists.
Information
Spanish Tourist OfficePostfach 151940, 80051, Munich, 089/530746 -11, -12 (Fax: -20),
Consorci Vias Verdes, Pujada Sant Martí 4-5, E-17004 Girona
