Pirinexus route (4 days)

Day 1. From Girona to Sant Joan de les Abadesses (75.7 kilometres)

The route starts in Girona, following the Carrilet I Greenway towards Olot. The Carrilet I Greenway is an old railway line with a low gradient that runs through an area of great natural and heritage value. The greenway reaches Olot, which is of great geological and scenic interest.

Leaving Olot, take the N-260, which climbs up through the Coubet and Santigosa passes to Sant Joan de les Abadesses. This section of the route is on tarmac, with an average gradient of 4% over 22 kilometres. This first stage ends in Sant Joan de les Abadesses, where we recommend visiting the old town, following the route of the Secret of Sant Joan de les Abadesses.

Day 2. From Sant Joan de les Abadesses to Le Boulou (86.6 kilometres)

In Sant Joan de les Abadesses, the route takes you back on the greenway to Sant Pau de Segúries. Next, cross the main road to take an uphill path that will take you to Camprodon. Leaving the town, once you have passed the Ritort river, you will begin to see high mountain landscapes, as here is where the mountain pass that will take you to Col d’Ares begins.

From this point, the route continues along the road to the highest point, Col d’Ares (1510 metres), which is also a border crossing. Once you enter French territory, the route descends until the end of this stage in Le Boulou, along roads and cycle paths.

Day 3. From Le Boulou to L’Escala (75.7 kilometres)

The third stage starts in Le Boulou on paved uphill trails as far as Col de Panissars (361 metres) to cross the border again. It should be noted that during times of high forest risk, the pass may be closed, with a properly signposted alternative route on the French side. From here, the descent towards La Jonquera begins. This is the most technically difficult point of the route. The descent starts on a sandy forest path with a steep slope. It is therefore advisable to ride with caution along this stretch of approximately 6 kilometres. Once you cross La Jonquera, the route continues towards the sea. Next, you will come across the towns of Campmany and Peralada, which stand out for their winemaking tradition, with wineries where you can enjoy a guided tour. The route continues to L’Escala, the first point of the route on the Costa Brava.

Day 4. From L’Escala to Girona (97.3 kilometres)

The last stage begins in L’Escala, heading towards Palafrugell. This section runs along trails and secondary roads. This area is known for its long-standing agricultural tradition, especially its fruit orchards. In Palafrugell, take the Tren Petit Greenway, the old route of the little train that used to connect Palamós with Girona, passing through La Bisbal d’Empordà. The route continues through coastal towns to Sant Feliu de Guíxols, where the Carrilet II Greenway begins, which will take you to Girona.