In the north, the mountain passes of the Val d'Aran and the Pyrenees of Catalonia merge with coves between cliffs and pines on the Costa Brava. Travel through unique natural parks such as Montseny, Montnegre, and Montserrat, on the Costa Barcelona. And to the south, enjoy the Costa Daurada and the Terres de l’Ebre, the gateway to paths that wind through the mountains of Prades and the Ports. A great variety of landscapes within a few kilometers. Bike routes in Catalonia to not be missed Take advantage of the signposted routes that will make pedaling easier. You will find information about the most interesting and beautiful points you will come across along the way. An example is the Vía Verde de la Terra Alta. One hundred kilometers of route among pine forests, fields of olive trees, almond trees, and vineyards. This old railway track connected Tortosa and Teruel until 1973. Now it allows a privileged bicycle ride through the Natural Park of the Ports to the Delta de l’Ebre. La Ruta del Císter is another opportunity to combine physical activity and discovery. It is a circular route that connects the three major Cistercian monasteries in Catalonia: Santes Creus, Poblet, and Vallbona de les Monges. This itinerary, escorted by the mountains of Prades, has other milestones with great cultural heritage, such as the medieval town of Montblanc or the modernist wineries of l’Espluga de Francolí. It can be done in stages and also on foot. Another very attractive proposal to do by bicycle is the Ruta del Carrilet, which connects Olot with Girona crossing the volcanic landscape of the Garrotxa. This first section makes a gentle ascent to the Coll d’en Bas and from there it runs parallel to the rivers Brugent and Ter, until reaching Girona. This itinerary has a second part, the Ruta del Carrilet II, which connects Girona with Sant Feliu de Guíxols. It was a route that the inhabitants of the interior used to go to the beach. It was also used to transport the cork from the Baix Empordà to the factories of Cassà de la Selva and Llagostera, where the corks for wine bottles were made. A commitment to sustainability Cycling tourism is a way to discover the territory in a slow, calm, and respectful manner. It moves away from mass tourism and promotes contact with the local population, their gastronomy, and culture. Therefore, it is a commitment to sustainability. Discovering on two wheels also reduces the carbon footprint and environmental pollution from CO2. The lack of ecological impact is even more significant if the visitor arrives by train. The result is cities and towns that are more friendly and respectful to cyclists and people. One of the advantages of Catalonia compared to other cycling tourism destinations is the good weather and mild temperatures throughout the year. These facts facilitate sports practice 365 days a year. Equipment needed for cycling tourism When you come to ride in Catalonia, it is essential that your backpack is very light to load it with experiences. In addition to all the documentation (insurance, ID or passport, bicycle purchase certificate, cash or credit card), it is important to carry sports clothing that facilitates perspiration, both short and long sleeves and pants. We recommend carrying warm clothing (thermal shirt, sweatshirt or fleece jacket) and a waterproof windbreaker jacket. Consider the time of year. If you are stopping at hotels or local lodgings, it is not necessary to carry towels. However, remember to bring a swimsuit and flip-flops to bathe in a river or lake you find. Also gloves, helmet, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a buff, which can serve both for sun and wind. If you do not want to carry equipment, you can also buy everything when you arrive in Catalonia. Plan your bike routes in Catalonia f you know what route you want to take, it is better to plan the route. In Catalonia, you will find accommodations that specialize in cycling tourism and offer parking services, workshop services, and a variety of energy menus. There are also specialized restaurants that provide this type of service. It is always worth planning in advance to then deviate from the route if adventure arises. Are you ready to start riding in Catalonia?