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Spain Biking
From Barcelona to the Pyrenees & Costa Brava
Culturally diverse, geographically varied, and awash in centuries-old customs, Spain's Catalonia region is made for exploration by bike. From Barcelona, discover medieval French and Spanish border towns hugging the majestic Pyrénées. Journey through the peculiar landscape that inspired some of Salvador Dalí's first paintings. Wind through the countryside, swapping rugged alpine terrain for the lush misty coastline. Finally, luxuriate in the transparent blue waters, untamed vegetation and secluded bays of Costa Brava, which more than lives up to its nickname, "the Wild Coast."
Request an itinerary here or reserve this trip now.
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• Kick off the journey in vibrant Barcelona
• Ride scenic routes in the Pyrénées foothills
• Costa Brava bike paths, where the Mediterranean laps against miles of white-sand beaches
• Highly acclaimed Catalan fusion cuisine and fresh seafood
• Admire the artistic genius of Salvador Dalí
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Days 1-2 Bolvir de Cerdanya
Meet in Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia and a city bursting with artistic, architectural and cultural marvels. Shuttle north into an alpine scenery of limestone cliffs, pine trees and meadows. Pedal through rolling countryside past mountain villages, herds of cows and sheep, and farmers tending their crops. Sample cava, Spain's delightful version of bubbly. Follow a scenic route as you cross the border into the French Pyrénées foothills. Traverse the famed Saint James Trail, a path taken by millions of pilgrims to reach the hallowed grounds at Santiago de Compostela. Cap off your day in the saddle with a tasting of sun-kissed Catalan wines.
• Two nights at the Torre del Remei.Set amid acres of lush manicured gardens, this 19th-century palace has been transformed into a 21st-century Relais & Chateaux-member hotel, complete with a swimming pool, day spa and ultra-chic amenities.
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Day 3 Figueres
Head to the Alt Emporda, Costa Brava's rugged north As you near the coast, pine and chestnut trees give way to oaks and olive groves. Shop for traditional Catalan fabrics and textiles in charming St-Laurent-de-Cerdans.
• Two nights at the Mas Falgarona. Owners Brigitta and Severino warmly welcome us into their renovated stone farmhouse, tucked into the countryside between the Pyrenees and Costa Brava.
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Days 4-6 Palamos
Spin to the beautiful Baix Emporda, known as the "region of coves" En route, explore hamlets showcasing cobbled town squares, Baroque-style churches and ancient fortresses. Take a look inside the medieval Gala Dalí Castle, painstakingly restored by the artist for his wife and muse. Feel the sea breeze against your face as you bike past miles of hidden bays. Wind through villages clinging to the craggy forested hillside. Wiggle your toes in the sand during some well-deserved beach time. Stroll around Cap Roig Botanical Garden, where vibrant native and exotic flowers stream down terraces from a hilltop castle. Return to Barcelona.
• Two nights at La Malcontenta. You won't ever want to leave this well-appointed private home-turned-hotel, but a footpath leading to one of Costa Brava's prettiest beaches makes it quite tempting.
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Dates: Jul 11-16, Jul 18-23, Oct 10-15
Length: 6 days/5 nights
Level: 2 to 4
Cost: $3,998 to $4,298
Single Supplement: $740 to $770
Meals: All meals included except 2 lunches and 1 dinner.
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