When Girona is mentioned as a cycling destination, the focus is often on its perfect gravel terrain, the training loops of Sant Hilari Sacalm and Els Àngels created by pro cyclists, or the iconic road climbs of Rocacorba and El Mont.
And while all of that is world-class, stopping there would be selling Girona short. What truly sets this region apart is its privileged location, offering an incredible diversity of climates, landscapes, and, of course, climbs. From the crystal-clear waters of the Costa Brava to the wild peaks of the Pyrenees.
And it’s the Pyrenees that we want to talk about. This majestic mountain range, with its towering summits, forms a natural border between the Iberian Peninsula and the rest of Europe, with its easternmost end lying within Girona’s territory.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most spectacular ascents in this part of the range, from the high-altitude passes of Ripollès to the wild, rugged peaks of the Marenda and Empordà, where the Pyrenees meet the Mediterranean.
And what better way to experience them than through our Cols of the Pyrenees and Costa Brava tour? A six-stage journey tackling some of the most breathtaking climbs from the sea to the highest mountains:
1. Alt de Sant Pere de Rodes
The final climb of the Pyrenees before they fade into the Mediterranean. The summit of Sant Pere de Rodes is a Category 2 ascent, taking you from the fishing village of Port de la Selva up to the stunning Romanesque monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes, perched high on Mount Verdera. This monastery is not only one of the oldest but also one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in the world.
The 8.5 km climb is a beautiful succession of hairpin bends, averaging 6.5%, with ramps exceeding 10%.
A spectacular ascent where the Mediterranean Sea is a constant companion, offering breathtaking views over the Cap de Creus coastline and the monastery waiting at the top.
2. Coll de Banyuls
A hidden gem of the Catalan Mediterranean and a favorite among local riders. The Coll de Banyuls starts from Banyuls de la Marenda, another charming fishing village, before climbing into the last cross-border pass of the Pyrenees.
At first glance, it seems like a gentle ascent: 10 km at a 3% average gradient. But don’t be deceived, after 7–8 km of rolling terrain through stunning vineyard landscapes, the real challenge begins. The final 2 km are brutal: an authentic hors catégorie ramp averaging 15%, with sections spiking up to 24%.
A true hidden beast of the Mediterranean Pyrenees.
And if that’s not enough, you can tackle another legendary climb right from Banyuls: the summit of the Madeloc tower. A 9 km ascent averaging 7’5%, featuring multiple sections at a savage 24% that will demand the best of you.
3. Coll de Costoja
Leaving the coastline behind, we venture into the Alta Garrotxa and Vallespir, two gorgeous Pyrenean regions. This climb takes us from village of Darnius to Costoja, a small hamlet perched right on the French-Spanish border.
It’s a long endurance climb -26 km– with a moderate 4% average gradient, though some ramps kick up to 11%. The road winds through the dense forests of the Salines massif, passing through the picturesque village of Maçanet de Cabrenys. It’s well worth a stop to take in the scenery and grab a coffee at the stunning modernist café La Pau.
At the summit, you’ll reach Costoja, home to a beautiful Romanesque church, with the mighty Canigó peak standing proud in the background.
4. Coll d'Ares
A true high-mountain pass, the Coll d’Ares connects Ripollès and Vallespir, forming one of the key border crossings between the brother vilalges of Molló and Prats de Molló, while also separating the Ter and Tec river valleys.
The Vallespir ascent (which we’ll focus on here) is much tougher than the Ripollès side. Starting from the historic walled village of Prats de Molló, this 13.3 km climb averages 6%, with multiple ramps exceeding 10%. The total elevation gain is a solid 600 meters, taking you to the summit at 1,513 meters above sea level.
A legendary Pyrenean climb that offers stunning panoramic views and a true sense of remoteness in a high-altitude enviroment.
These are just some of the most iconic cols tackled in our Cols of the Pyrenees and Costa Brava tour, an unforgettable six-stage ride that showcases the very best of Girona’s high-mountain cycling.
We hope this has inspired you to take on the challenge and discover the magic of the Girona’s Pyrenees!