Gravel capital of Europe

As always, we started our stay outside Girona – in a charming countryside villa with a pool, just a few kilometers from the city. We spent these first days exploring the mountainous terrain west of Girona, visiting all the local classics – the Llemena Valley, the massive Susqueda Dam, and of course, Rocacorba.

Once again, we got lucky with the weather – the entire week greeted us with beautiful sunshine and pleasant temperatures between 20 and 25°C. Even the mornings weren’t too chilly, and after each ride, the pool was still warm enough to jump right in.

On the third day, we faced the biggest challenge of the camp – Rocacorba. This sharp peak rising above Girona is known for its famous paved climb – famous because it’s brutally steep. But of course, we wouldn’t be ourselves if we didn’t do it differently.

As every year, we took on Rocacorba from the south – off-road. At the top, we spent a good half hour resting and soaking in the vast panorama. From up there, you can see everything – Girona, the lake and town of Banyoles, and even the ridge of the Pyrenees stretching all the way to the French border.

After a few days of solid gravel riding, it was finally time for a well-deserved rest. To celebrate, we headed to the seaside – following a perfect gravel route built on an old railway line. Can a 90-kilometer ride really count as a rest day? We’re not so sure, but at least this time it wasn’t uphill.

Back in the city, we finally had the chance to wander around Girona and soak in its unique atmosphere.

Just above the center of Girona rises a small mountain range called Les Gavarres. These low mountains, covered with pines and cork oaks, are crisscrossed by a maze of winding gravel roads and flowing singletracks – a true playground for cyclists of all kinds.

The dusty orange soil, the scent of pine trees, and the network of perfect gravel trails weaving along the hillsides create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Add to that the medieval stone villages at the foot of the mountains – the perfect spots for a coffee or tapas break.

We spent almost two full days in Gavarres, and we already miss it.

But it’s not just the stunning surroundings that make Girona so magnetic. The city itself is equally fascinating — full of life, character, and that unmistakable cycling vibe. It’s a place where beautiful bikes and great coffee are part of everyday life.

We ate at Hors Categorie, had coffee and xuixos at La Fabrica and Espresso Mafia, admired the impressive Odeon, and took in panoramic views of the city from the old walls.

We stayed in apartments right next to Barri Vell, the famous historic district — just a few steps from the very heart of the city, yet tucked away enough to enjoy a bit of quiet.

We barely made it back to Poland, and we’re already dreaming about going back. We’ll miss the Catalan sun during these gloomy autumn months. Thanks, everyone, for such an amazing week — it was truly beautiful!

P.S. We’re returning to Girona with the next camp in March — and more than half of the spots are already gone :)