La Ruta Mar i Muntanya is a road cycling tour in Girona, Spain that travels from the Mediterranean to the foothills of the Pyrenees. This trip included 7 guided rides, cultural visits, culinary delights at some of Spain’s finest restaurants.
Girona is a walled city with a rich history dating back to the 1st Century. It is where Michael and Dede any many North American cycling professionals have based themselves and it is known as a culinary capital. This Toronto based group road some of the mountains made famous by the professionals, such as Mare de Deu del Mont and Els Angels, visited the church where the artist, Salvador Dali was married, shopped on the Rambla de Catalunya and walked on the ancient city wall.
Michael and Dede Barry were based in Girona for 12 years, while racing as professional and Olympic cyclists. For several years, they have partnered with BikeCat leading custom bicycle tours in Girona, the Spanish and French Pyrenees and in Priorat. They lead both road and gravel tours and share their knowledge of the region. Mariposa Bicycles is currently booking 2018 tours for private groups of 8+. Please direct inquiries to [email protected]
Girona has a rich history dating back to the 1st Century. The Roman Cathedral is a central focal point in the Barri Vell (old city).
The group was based in Girona for nine days, which is split by the Onyar River.
An ancient wall surrounds the city of Girona.
Michael Barry and local guide, Jordi Cantal on the wall overlooking the city of Girona.
The road book, beautifully designed and prepared by our partner and local guide, Jaume Cabruja of BikeCat.
Day 1: Climbing.
La Piedra. The Catalan stones.
Climbing Els Angles, to the church where the artist Salvador Dali was married.
A coffee stop in front of the church where artist, Salvador Dali was married.
La Panta Susqueda
Overlooking the dam, La Panta Susqueda
Climbing Mare de Deu del Mont
The group reaching the summit of Mare de Deu del Mont, which views to the Mediterranean, the Pyrenees, France and Spain.
The Catalan poet, Mossen Cinto Verdaguer, seated at the peak of Mare de Deu del Mont.
A panaramic view from the cafe at the top of Mare de Deu del Mont.
The Boys.
The chapel and monastery at the peak of Mare de Deu del Mont
The ancient town of Besalu
The Girona Cathedral at night.
Hi Guys,
When are you going to the Pyrenees?
I have some other trips booked this year but am curious as to your timing and costs.
I’m also drawn to come of the classic French climbs. Thinking 2018 might be the year, so if there’s a trip down the road I’d be interested in planning in advance
Great shots. Brings back some good memories of a special place to ride.
I was a participant of this fabulous and challenging tour. Thank you Bikecat & Mariposa for hosting such a well executed event. I am looking forward to our next year adventure together.
How do we find out more about 2018 tours? Will you be going back to Girona?
Hi Paul,
The bike tours we are organizing in 2018 are all custom and for private groups of 8+ people. We are organizing tours in Girona, the Spanish Pyrenees and the Priorat region. Some of our tours are on the road, while others on gravel / backroads. If you are interested in doing a tour, please let us know and can discuss. The best is to connect with us by phone at 416-423-0456 or by e-mail at [email protected]
Thank you and best regards.