CYCLING IN CATALONIA - SELF GUIDED CYCLING HOLIDAY

Uncover the wild and beautiful landscape of Catalonia on this cycling holiday in North East Spain.

Follow traffic free roads and open countryside as you cycle through idyllic villages surrounded by

olive groves and orchards. Relax and unwind as you pass fields of yellow sunflowers and meander

through nature reserves teeming with bird-life. Take time to savour the local cuisine at the village

markets and discover local tradition and culture in this hidden area of Catalonia.

After a transfer from Girona, your cycle starts in Palau Saverdera which is a charming Catalan farming

village, only 5km from the sea. You will be based here for the first few nights as you explore the

surrounding villages and sights on your wheels, including a wonderful circular route to Peralada (famous for

its winemaking). You then head south to Sant Pere Pescador your base for the rest of the holiday. En route

you pass through Aiguamolls Nature Reserve where there is an abundance of birdlife and head on down to

the coast for some fantastic views across to the Pyrenees. Plenty of relaxed cycling and stunning scenery

make this a wonderful holiday to unwind and recharge your batteries.

The pace of life, stimulating culture and dramatic seascapes of this largely undiscovered and unspoilt part of

Spain will refresh and reinvigorate you. Macs Adventure’s cycling holidays allow you to see so much more

of the countryside away from the crowds and give you a real sense of freedom.

Cycling through the tranquil Nature Reserve

Traffic free rural trails through olive groves, vineyards and orchards

Discover and explore Medieval towns and villages

Experience the freedom and wonder at the spectacular scenery

WHY CHOOSE A SELF GUIDED CYCLING HOLIDAY WITH US?

Macs Adventure specialise in self guided cycling holidays. As passionate and regular cyclists we know what

makes for an unforgettable adventure and we deliver outstanding holidays with every last detail taken care

of. Great routes, breathtaking scenery and warm, welcoming accommodation can be expected.

Each holiday can be tailor made to meet your requirements. From your first contact with Macs Adventure

you will deal with a local specialist who knows the region intimately. They help you to make the most of your

time with their in-depth knowledge of the route, accommodation and must-see attractions on the way.

We supply you with comfortable hybrid bikes, extensive and clear route notes, info pack and a preloaded

GPS Unit to guide you every step of the way. Your baggage is collected and moved to your next

accommodation as per your itinerary, leaving you free to enjoy each days cycling.

In the unlikely event you should require emergency support our office and our local partner in Catalonia are

always more than happy to help with your queries. From the moment you decide to visit Catalonia you can

relax and look forward to an unforgettable self-guided cycling holiday.

What’s Included?

Accommodation: Traditional, rural family-run guest houses .

Bike Hire: We supply you with a fully

equipped hybrid bike and helmet.

Meals: A hearty breakfast is included.

Lunch and dinner are not included but al-

ways

available at accommodation or nearby.

Baggage Transfer: Door-to-door

baggage transfer where applicable.

Information Pack: Comprehensive route notes, maps and local information supplied.

Tour: Cycling in Catalonia

Code: CSPSCIC1 - 2

Type: Self-Guided Cycling Holiday

Price: See Website

Single Supplement: See Website

Dates: Jan—June/Sep—Dec

Cycling Days: 4 or 6 Days

Nights: 5 or 7 Nights

Start/Finish: Girona Airport

Grade: Moderate

Is It For Me?

Clear blue sea, plenty of sunshine and

relaxed cycling make this the perfect holiday

to unwind. Enjoy the charming villages and

wonderful local cuisine in this unspoilt area

of Northern Spain.

CATALAN VILLAGES & COAST

CYCLE ACROSS ROLLING PLAINS THROUGH SLEEPY

VILLAGES TO THE WILD COAST OF CATALONIA

CYCLING IN CATALONIA

UNSPOILT COAST AND RUSTIC VILLAGES

SUMMARY

HIGHLIGHTS

THE DESCRIPTION BELOW IS BASED

ON THE 7 NIGHT ITINERARY:

DAY 1

Arrive Girona/Transfer to Palau

Saverdera

Our local partner will meet you at Girona Airport

for the transfer to Palau Saverdera, alternatively

we can arrange a transfer from Figueres Train

Station. After your welcome briefing and bike

fitting then you are free to set off on your

adventure.

Palau Saverdera is a charming little farming

community nestled at the bottom of the Sant

Salvador Saverdera mountain in the Cap de

Creus National Park. The village is just 5 kms

from the sea. Depending on your arrival time

you may wish to begin your exploration of the

area by cycling some of the off road trails

minutes from your front door.

Overnight: Niu de Sol, Rural Hotel, Palau

Saverdera

DAY 2

Westerly circuit to Peralada: 36km

(22.4m), approx 3 1/2 hrs

Today you will travel due west on a circular route

that introduces you to the beautiful Catalan

countryside in the foothills of the Pyrenees. You’ll

pass fields lined with vines producing the wine

that you will no doubt sample at some stage of

your holiday. After a while you’ll arrive at the

historic town of Peralada—a town now known for

its winemaking. The impressive ‘Museo del

Castillo de Peralada’ hosts one of the best

collections of Catalonian art.

You may wish to change out of your shorts and

tee shirt and return in the evening to visit the

elegant Casino-built within the medieval castle.

Its a gentle cycle back to Palau through the

sleepy hamlets of Pedret and Marza to your hotel

for a second night.

Overnight: Niu de Sol, Rural Hotel, Palau

Saverdera

DAY 3

Westerly cycle to Vilabertran: 39km

(24.3m), approx 3 1/2 hrs

Today you cycle through rolling farmland

cultivated with fruit orchards, olive groves and

vineyards. Farm tracks, rural trails and tourist

cycle routes wind their way to Vilabertran where

you cannot help but be impressed by the

Romanesque Monastery and Church.

The working town of Figueres is a short distance

away and the 5 mile diversion will allow you to

visit the Teatre-Museu Dali—a museum created

by Dali and his final resting place in the crypt

within.

The return journey passes the village of Vilanova

de la Muga and 11th Century church of St Eulalia

and takes you for your final night in Palau

Saverdera.

Overnight: Niu de Sol, Rural Hotel, Palau

Saverdera

DAY 4

South through Aiguamolls Nature Reserve and onto St Pere Pescador:

28km (17.4m), approx 3 1/2 hrs

Leaving Palau Saverdera behind, today's route is

a short one but packed with sights and

experiences. You’ll meander through a

patchwork of fields to Castello d'Empuries; a

beautiful medieval town, steeped in history.

Once you’ve satisfied yourself with the

architecture, shops and cafes in the old town it’s

back in the saddle for a ride through the

Aiguamolls Nature Reserve. The Reserve

covers nearly 2000 hectares and the area is

dotted with hides, ideal for spotting the

abundance of birdlife. From the Reserve you

continue onwards to the village of St Pere

Pescador. The village is about a mile from the

coast, and a beautiful 4 miles long sandy beach.

Overnight: Mas del Joncar, Rural House, Sant

Pere Pescador.

The house, constructed in the 19th century has

been completely restored and modernised by

owners Anna and Miguel. One of Miguel's

passions is cooking and he and Anna offer

traditional Catalan fayre, using local produce.

DAY 5

Free/Rest Day

The options are numerous for your free/rest day

with a host of local attractions, some slightly

farther afield and of course there's always the

beach should you want to kick back and relax.

Whether you decide to use the bikes or leave

them at home you could visit the vibrant and

bustling seaside town of Cadaques, famous for

its association with Dali who spent his summers

here.

The village of St Pere is a short walk from your

Casa Rural and you should take time to wander

around its attractive lanes .

CATALAN VILLAGES & COAST

CYCLE ACROSS ROLLING PLAINS AND FARMLAND TO THE WILD COAST OF CATALONIA

CYCLING IN CATALONIA

UNSPOILT COAST AND RUSTIC VILLAGES

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The nearby Bay of Roses can be reached on foot

or two wheels in a matter of minutes. The sand

and sea are great for relaxing, getting some rays

and cooling off in the Mediterranean and the

expansive beach ensures space and tranquillity.

Overnight: Mas del Joncar, Rural House, Sant

Pere Pescador.

DAY 6

Circular route through Catalan Countryside: 37km (23m), approx 3

1/2 hrs

Today’s cycle is a wonderful circular route

through open countryside. On the first section of

the cycle you get great views across to the high

Pyrenees and you pass many apple orchards

and small hamlets before crossing the river and

looping southwards back to Sant Pere Pescador

Overnight: Mas del Joncar, Rural House, Sant

Pere Pescador.

DAY 7

Travel south to Empuries

Remember to pack your swimming kit as you

head off today. You’ll begin by leaving the

village, before a brief climbing that takes you

past the entrance to the Greek and Roman ruins

at Empuries.

There are some excellent examples of Roman

Mosaics here and other remains dating back as

far as 281 B.C. An hour or two here will give you

an insight into the cultures that influenced and

shaped the area and its people.

Continuing along the coast path you soon reach

the walled settlement of Sant Marti d’Empuries.

Dropping back to the plains your route home

takes you through the pretty village hamlet of

Cinclaus and back to the river Fluvia. Retracing

your steps for the last mile or so bring you back

to your Casa Rural for your final night.

Overnight: Mas del Joncar, Rural House, Sant

Pere Pescador.

DAY 8

Departure Day

After a leisurely breakfast a transfer to Girona

Airport sees you on your way home.

Description: Our 7 Day cycle follows the itinerary detailed previously. Perfect for regular cyclists looking for a relaxed but active holiday. Days: 5/6 Cycling Days Nights: 7 Average daily cycling time: 3-4 Hours Grade: Moderate

Description: This itinerary is perfect for a shorter cycling holiday, possibly combined with a day or two of sightseeing in Girona or Barcelona. Days: 4 Cycling Days Nights: 5 Average daily cycling time: 3-4 Hours Grade: Moderate

Additional Nights and Extensions

Many of our clients choose to add extra nights to

sample more of the wonderful attractions and

culture.

Most customers fly into Girona—a beautiful and

busy city where mediaeval influences and

architecture are still very prevalent. Slightly

further afield is the incredible city of Barcelona

home of the inspired religious icon of La Sagrada

Familia. Shopping, culture, fine food and

amazing nightlife draw visitors from around the

globe. An extra night in Castello d’Empuries

provides a base for a trip to Figueres to the

Museum that commemorates Dali's life. There

are some amazing beaches a few kilometres

from Castello to intersperse culture with sun,

sand and sea.

CYCLING IN CATALONIA

UNSPOILT COAST AND RUSTIC VILLAGES

Day Route Miles

1 23 4 5 6 7 8

Arrive Girona/transfer to Palau Saverdera Circuit to Peralada Circuit to Vilabertran Cycle to Sant Pere Pes-cador Free Day Sant Pere Pescador circuit Empuries circuit Onward travel

22 24 18 23 24

Total Distance 111

Day Route Miles

1 2 3 4 5 6

Arrive Girona/transfer to Palau Saverdera Circuit to Peralada Cycle to Sant Pere Pescador Sant Pere Pescador circuit Empuries circuit Onward travel

22 18 23 24

Total Distance 87

CSPSCVC2

CSPSCVC1

HOLIDAY INFORMATION

Fewer Nights

If you wish to reduce the number of nights we

can tailor your trip to your requirements.

Tailor Made Holidays

We are always more than happy to tailor our

standard itineraries to suit. Just let us know what

you would like and we will be happy to arrange

tailor made walking holiday.

Grade

Itineraries on this cycling trip are graded

Moderate. Occasionally you may encounter a

few moderate slopes, especially on coastal trails.

However the ascent is not too difficult or

prolonged.

Navigation

The trails on this holiday are a mix of local paths,

farm tracks. The route notes that accompany

each itinerary give a step by step, turn by turn

account of your route and are complimented with

photographs to give you continual points of

reference.

Accommodation

One of the highlights of this tour is the high

standard of the accommodation. We specifically

select the Guest Houses to ensure that you enjoy

every minute of your stay.

They all offer a warm welcome to cyclists,

traditional hospitality and delicious local food.

Each accommodation is different and full of

character as we aim to deliver an authentic

experience.

Single Rooms

If you require single rooms we would be happy to

accommodate you although there is a single

room supplement payable. Unfortunately we are

unable to offer this holiday to solo walkers due to

safety reasons.

Meals

A traditional Catalan breakfast is included each

morning. Breakfast is a leisurely affair and

adequate time should be allocated. Lunch and

dinner are not included. Most accommodations

are happy to provide a packed lunch - this should

be requested on arrival. Dinner is available either

at your accommodation or nearby bars, cafes

and restaurants.

Baggage Transfer

Your bags will be transferred from your

accommodation as per your itinerary and moved

onto your next overnight accommodation. We

ask you to limit your luggage to one bag of up to

15kg per person.

Equipment

Your information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard gear such as good shoes with stiff soles for cycling, breathable clothing and sun protection and a day pack.

Price

Please refer to our website for up to date prices

www.macsadventure.com

Availability

This cycling holiday can be enjoyed from Feb–

Jun/Sep—Dec.

In the high summer months of July and August

temperatures are generally so hot as to make

cycling uncomfortable.

Included

Arrival and departure transfers from/to Girona Airport

Welcome meeting with English speaking staff

Bed and breakfast accommodation in ensuite rooms.

Baggage transfer.

A detailed info pack, route notes, series of maps and local information.

Fully equipped Hybrid bicycle with panniers

Hemet, repair kit and lock

Full information pack on local history, culture & traditions as well as advice on restaurants, bars and local attractions.

Emergency telephone support from our office in the UK as well as from a local office in Catalonia with English speaking staff.

Excluded

Lunches, dinners, snacks and drinks.

Travel Insurance.

Transport should you need to skip a stage.

Entrance fees (where applicable)

Getting to Catalonia

By Air—The closest regional airport to is Girona,

Flight time for the UK is around 2.5 hours from

Scotland and the North of England and around

45 minutes less from London and southern

English airports.

Once at Girona you will be met at the airport and

transferring by private car to your first nights

accommodation—a journey of approx 1 hour.

Alternatively we offer a transfer from the nearest

train station at Figueres.

CYCLING IN CATALONIA

UNSPOILT COAST AND RUSTIC VILLAGES

PRICE AND AVAILABILITY

TRAVEL INFORMATION

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend taking out travel

insurance to cover cancellation or curtailment of

your holiday.

We operate holidays in some of the most

beautiful areas of the world and try to operate in

an environmentally aware and sustainable

manner. We do this by following our M.A.C.S.

Responsible travel policy.

Minimise Impact & Maximise Benefit

Our operating policies, office policies, holidays

and tours are all designed to minimise impact

and maximise benefit to the environment and

local communities.

Action & Advocacy

We believe that by engaging our team and

clients in environmental and community projects

we can make a real difference.

Carbon & Communities

Travel and our business activity does of course

contribute to carbon output and climate change.

We have put several policies in place to minimise

our carbon footprint.

Sensitive & Sustainable

Macs Adventure has worked hard to ensure that

our holidays are sensitive to the community you

are visiting and sustainable over the long term.

Once you have read all the information in this

factsheet or our website, please visit our website

or give us a call to confirm availability. You can

then book by any of the following methods:

Book Securely Online: www.macsadventure.com

Telephone: +44 (0) 141 530 8886

Fax/Post: Download or request a booking form and post it to Macs Adventure, 44 Speirs Wharf, Glasgow, G4 9TH, UK or fax it to +44 (0) 845 527 5688

Please don’t hesitate to contact us by phone on

+44 (0) 141 530 8886 or email:

info@macsadventure.com if you have any

queries and one of our expert team will be happy

to help.

Financial Security

In accordance with "The Package Travel,

Package Holidays and Package Tours

Regulations1992" all passengers booking with

Macs Adventure Ltd are fully protected for the

initial deposit and subsequently the balance of all

monies paid to us, including repatriation if

required (this insurance will not cover repatriation

to the country of origin for the passengers

outside of the EU), arising from cancellation or

curtailment of your travel arrangements due to

the insolvency of Macs Adventure Ltd

There is no requirement for Financial Protection

of day trips, and none is provided. This

insurance is only valid for packages booked that

DO NOT include flights.

Book with Confidence. We are a member of ABTA which means you have the benefit of ABTA’s assistance and Code of Conduct. We provide full financial protection for your money.

ABTA Member Statement

Macs Adventure Holidays is a Member of ABTA.

ABTA and ABTA. Members help holidaymakers

to get the most from their travel and assist when

things don’t go according to plan. We are obliged

to maintain a high standard of service to you by

ABTA’s Code of Conduct.

For more information on

ABTA, the Code of

Conduct and the

arbitration scheme

available to you if you have a complaint, contact

ABTA, 30 Park Street, London SE1 9EQ, tel 020

3117 0581 www.abta.com

CYCLING IN CATALONIA

UNSPOILT COAST AND RUSTIC VILLAGES

RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL

HOW TO BOOK

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE