Carrilet I Greenway: Olot - Girona

The Carrilet I Greenway from Olot to Girona is approximately 86.8 kilometers long. For touring cyclists, the average duration is around 5.5 hours, though this can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery and amenities.

The trail primarily follows a converted narrow-gauge railway line, resulting in a relatively flat and smooth journey. The pavement is generally packed granite sand and is well-maintained. While mostly smooth, some initial sections might have loose rocks. The path is wide, well-kept, and largely traffic-free.

Yes, the Carrilet I Greenway is highly suitable for beginners and families. It features gentle gradients, especially when cycling from Olot (at 440m altitude) towards Girona (at 70m altitude), which is largely downhill. The route is rated as easy to easy/intermediate, making it manageable for all ages and fitness levels.

The greenway offers diverse scenery and charming towns. You'll pass through the Garrotxa Volcanic Area, picturesque river valleys, and towns like Les Planes d'Hostoles, Amer, La Cellera de Ter, Anglès, and Bonmatí. Notable highlights include the Ruta del Carrilet – Scenic Section Near Amer, Coll de Bas (Greenway), Sant Feliu de Pallerols, and the Heart of Anglès Sculpture. Repurposed old train stations also serve as resting spots and playgrounds.

You can access the greenway from either end, Olot or Girona, and various towns in between. Parking is typically available near the former train stations in towns along the route, such as Olot, Amer, Anglès, and Girona. For the easiest ride, many cyclists choose to start in Olot and cycle downhill towards Girona.

The Carrilet I Greenway can be enjoyed throughout most of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be warm, but the route provides plenty of shade. Winter cycling is also possible, though it might be cooler.

Yes, the Carrilet I Greenway is generally dog-friendly. Dogs are usually permitted on a leash. Please ensure you clean up after your pet and respect other users of the greenway.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Carrilet I Greenway itself. While the route begins in the Parc Natural de la Zona Volcànica de la Garrotxa, access to the greenway within the park is free and open to the public.

Yes, the Carrilet I Greenway is a crucial link in the region's cycling network. It is part of the PirineXus and the Ruta del Carrilet I: "Girona-Olot" (also known as Via Verda Carrilet Olot - Girona). It also intersects with sections of the Camí de Sant Jaume and the Ruta del Ter. Furthermore, via the Carrilet II Greenway, it extends all the way to the Mediterranean coast at Sant Feliu de Guíxols, allowing for longer cycling tours.

Yes, the Carrilet I Greenway is exceptionally well-equipped. You'll find amenities such as water points, cafes, and picnic areas in many of the towns it passes through. Repurposed old train stations often serve as convenient spots for resting and finding refreshments.

For a comfortable ride, bring plenty of water, snacks, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), and appropriate cycling attire. A basic repair kit for your bike is also advisable. Given the amenities along the way, you can plan to stop for meals or additional supplies in the towns.