Girona → Barcelona by road bike

Girona → Barcelona by road bike: complete guide and logistics with rental at Caranva Sports

Imagine cresting the last bend before Montgat and seeing the entire Barcelona skyline lit up by the sunset... Are you up for pedaling the 100 km that separate Girona from Barcelona?

🚴‍♂️ Why ride the Girona → Barcelona section by road bike?

Between Girona—Europe’s cycling capital—and Barcelona lies a tapestry of secondary roads, gentle hills and views of the Mediterranean, totalling just over 98-115 km and just 380-850 m of elevation gain , depending on the route chosen. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} This gentle profile makes it the perfect route for intermediate-level cyclists looking for a day-long challenge, without impossible mountain passes or heavy traffic.

📊 Route profile and variants

1. Interior Variant (fast)

Distance: 98 km
Elevation gain: +380 m
Key roads: BV-5001 (La Roca) → C-35 (Hostalric) → GI-673 (Caldes de Malavella) → GI-533 (Montgat) :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

2. Costa Brava variant (scenic)

Distance: 112 km
Elevation gain: +684-851 m
Highlights: Tossa de Mar, Sant Pol, the Mataró seafront promenade :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

🧳 Preparations: train + bike, the most convenient logistics

The easiest way is to rent a bike in Barcelona , take the R-11 towards Girona, and ride back. Bicycles are free and permitted on all lines, subject to capacity :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}. Renfe reminds you that only one bike per person is allowed, and it must be parked in designated spaces :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.

🏆 Advantages of renting your road bike at Caranva Sports

Lightweight bikes with a 105 or Ultegra groupset, tubeless , and 50/34-11-34 gearing, perfect for the slopes of the Costa Brava.
Pick-up 5 minutes from Sants Station ; get off the AVE train and pedal.
We include a pump, multi-tool, and puncture repair kit—at no extra cost.
Book 100% online in 3 clicks and cancel free up to 24 hours before your scheduled arrival.

→ Rent a road bike in Barcelona (Caranva Sports)

🗺️ Recommended stages and points of interest

Stage 1 — Girona → Hostalric (km 0-48)

Leave Plaça de Catalunya heading south. Have breakfast in Caldes de Malavella (km 35) and refill your tank at the fountain next to the Art Nouveau spa.

Stage 2 — Hostalric → Mataró (km 48-82)

Beyond the medieval walls of Hostalric, it connects with the GI-512 and enjoys gentle descents to Arenys de Mar; it runs parallel to the sea with a wide shoulder.

Stage 3 — Mataró → Barcelona (km 82-102)

It crosses the coastal bike path of Montgat and Badalona before entering the brand new Diagonal—considered the city's urban "cycle highway." :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5} A selfie is a must with the Torre Glòries in the background.

💡 Quick tips to make everything run smoothly

Departure time: 7:30 a.m. train; you'll arrive in Barcelona before sunset.
Tracks: download the inland version of Bikemap or the coastal version of Wikiloc to GPS. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Plan B: If the headwind gets strong, Rodalies has stops every 15 km: hop on a train and avoid running out of electricity.
Nutrition: Minimum 2 bottles + 4 bars; gas stations along C-35 accept cards.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long will it take me to complete the route?

An average cyclist spends 4-6 hours pedaling, plus breaks. Add more time if you choose the coastal option with the steepest gradient.

Do I need an advanced physical level?

No. The average gradient is less than 2%, and there are only short inclines. With regular weekend training, it's achievable.

Can I do the route in reverse (Barcelona → Girona)?

Yes, but keep in mind that the offshore wind usually blows from the south in the afternoons; this could penalize your speed.

🔚 Conclusion

Girona and Barcelona are connected by more than just the train: a varied, accessible, and historic cycling route . With Caranva Sports' "train + rental" package, you don't need to bring your bike; just the desire to have fun. Book, pedal, and capture the image of the coastline lighting up as you roll into the city.