The best traffic-free bike rides around Girones

Girones offers a wide selection of car-free touring cycling routes. You can explore over 400 routes, ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

Yes, Girones is well-known for its Greenways, which are ideal for families and beginners. These routes, built on disused railway lines, offer flat, car-free paths. While specific family-friendly routes are not listed here, the region has 65 easy routes perfect for a relaxed ride. The Ter River Route, for example, offers a moderate, scenic journey along the river.

The no-traffic routes in Girones traverse a diverse range of landscapes. You'll find routes winding through fertile plains and river valleys, such as those along the Ter River. Other routes venture into the foothills of the Gavarres massif, offering a mix of forests and gentle climbs. The region's proximity to the Costa Brava also means some routes offer glimpses of coastal scenery, though the focus here is on inland, car-free paths.

Yes, many routes in Girones are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, you could try The 7 Salvatan Hermitages - Circular birth of the river Onyar, a challenging 59 km route, or the moderate Pies de las Gavarras - Circular by Sant Martí Vell & Madremanya, which covers nearly 27.5 km.

The best times for no-traffic touring cycling in Girones are generally spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, making for comfortable riding conditions. Summer can be quite hot, especially in July and August, while winter offers cooler temperatures but still many clear days suitable for cycling.

Many routes pass by charming villages and natural features. While cycling, you might encounter historical sites like the Cathedral Square of Girona or the Girona City Walls if your route takes you near the capital. The region also features natural highlights such as the Gavarres massif and the Ter River, offering scenic views and tranquil spots.

The duration varies significantly depending on the route's distance and your cycling pace. For instance, a moderate route like Ter River Route (44 km) can take around 3 hours and 15 minutes. More challenging routes, such as View of Madremanya – Medieval village of Monells loop from Girona (nearly 60 km), might take closer to 4 hours. There are also shorter options available for quicker rides.

Girona, the capital of Girones, is well-connected by public transport, including train and bus services, making it a convenient hub for accessing many cycling routes. The Greenways, like the Carrilet Greenway, often have access points in towns that are reachable by public transport, allowing for flexible planning of your touring cycling adventure.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Girones, with an average score of 4.47 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's extensive network of quiet roads and dedicated Greenways, which provide a safe and enjoyable car-free environment. The diverse landscapes, from river plains to the foothills of the Gavarres, and the charming medieval villages also receive frequent commendation.

While truly 'no-traffic' routes are often flatter, Girones does offer challenging touring routes that minimize traffic by utilizing quieter roads and dedicated paths. For instance, The 7 Salvatan Hermitages - Circular birth of the river Onyar is a difficult 59 km route with significant elevation gain, providing a good challenge for experienced cyclists seeking quieter roads.

Many of the no-traffic routes, especially those passing through or connecting towns and villages, will have access to bike-friendly cafes, restaurants, and shops. The Greenways, in particular, are designed with amenities in mind, often featuring rest stops and services in the communities they traverse. It's always a good idea to check your route beforehand for specific points of interest and services.