The best cycling routes around Sant Martí Vell

There are over 470 touring cycling routes available around Sant Martí Vell, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.

You can expect a diverse landscape, from the forested hills of the Gavarres massif to the open Empordà plain. Routes feature both paved surfaces and gravel tracks, connecting rural villages via quiet inland roads. Elevation ranges from rolling countryside to more challenging climbs, such as those found in the Gavarres massif.

The region offers pleasant cycling conditions for much of the year. During warmer months, many routes traverse Mediterranean forests, providing welcome shade. Spring and autumn generally offer mild temperatures, ideal for exploring the diverse landscapes.

Yes, Sant Martí Vell offers routes suitable for beginners and families. There are over 50 easy routes with mostly paved surfaces and minimal elevation gain. An example is the Horts de la Riba del Ter loop from Bordils - Juià, which is an easy 11 km path.

Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, there are over 240 difficult routes. These often include significant climbs and longer distances, such as the ascent to the Mare de Déu dels Àngels sanctuary. The Puig d'en Batet – Puig Alt (Els Àngels) 488m loop from Bordils - Juià is a difficult 37.9 km route featuring a substantial climb to Els Àngels, offering extensive views.

Cycling through Sant Martí Vell allows you to discover numerous historical and cultural landmarks. You can explore medieval villages like Monells, which features an arcaded square, or pass by the impressive church in Sant Martí Vell itself. The View of Madremanya – Medieval village of Monells loop from Bordils - Juià is a moderate route that takes you past such sites. Other notable attractions include the medieval village of Monells and the Cathedral Square of Girona.

Yes, many routes offer breathtaking panoramic views. The sanctuary of Mare de Déu dels Àngels, perched atop Puig Alt, provides extensive views of almost all the counties of Girona. The View of Madremanya – Madremanya loop from Bordils - Juià also offers scenic vistas across the Empordà plain.

The Girona region, including Sant Martí Vell, is known for its cyclist-friendly atmosphere. You'll find cafes along some routes, such as Annna café, providing convenient stops to recharge. Medieval villages like Monells also offer gastronomic options.

Many of the touring cycling routes in Sant Martí Vell are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Can Pol Café loop from Massís de les Gavarres and the Puig d'en Batet – Puig Alt (Els Àngels) 488m loop from Bordils - Juià.

As a rural area, Sant Martí Vell and its surrounding villages typically offer public parking spaces, often near village centers or trailheads. It's advisable to check local signage for specific parking regulations.

While Sant Martí Vell is a rural area, public transport options like regional buses may connect to nearby larger towns such as Girona, from which you can cycle to the starting points of routes. However, direct public transport access to all trailheads might be limited, so planning your journey in advance is recommended.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 700 reviews. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse terrain, the quiet inland roads, and the charm of cycling through medieval villages and forested landscapes.