TOP 5 CLIMBS IN GIRONA
MARE DE DEU DEL MONT - NORTH OF GIRONA
If you’re looking for a climb that combines rhythm, scenery and a proper sting in the tail, Mare de Déu del Mont is one of Girona’s most satisfying summit finishes.
The Numbers (via Cabanelles – most popular approach)
📍 Distance: ~18 km
⛰ Elevation gain: ~950 m
🔝 Max Elevation: 1120m
📊 Average gradient: ~5%
🔥 Max ramps: 12–14% near the top
The Reward – 360° Views
On a clear day you get stunning 360° panoramic views:
The Pyrenees rising to the north
The rolling hills of the Garrotxa volcanic region
The plains of the Empordà
Even glimpses toward the Costa Brava and the Mediterranean
There’s also a small café/restaurant at the top — ideal for an espresso and a moment to appreciate what you’ve just climbed.
What Makes It Special
🚗 Very low traffic — peaceful and remote feel
🌳 Constantly changing scenery
⛰ A real “earned” summit finish
📸 One of the best viewpoints in Girona province
2. ROCACORBA – THE ICONIC TEST OF GIRONA
Few climbs around Girona carry the reputation of Rocacorba. It’s short, intense, and unapologetically tough — a benchmark effort for locals and pros alike.
The Numbers
📍 Distance: ~10 km
⛰ Elevation gain: ~800 m
🔝 Max elevation: 992 m
📊 Average gradient: ~6%
🔥 Final 8 km average: ~9%
⚠️ Max ramps: 15–18%
The Reward – Big Views, Bigger Satisfaction
From the summit, views stretch across Lake Banyoles, the Empordà plains and toward the Pyrenees. It’s not as expansive as Mare de Déu del Mont, but the sense of achievement is arguably greater.
There’s no café at the top — just a quiet summit and the feeling that you’ve passed a true Girona rite of passage.
What Makes It Special
🔥 A recognised local benchmark climb
📈 Consistent, honest gradients
🚴 A favourite training ground for pros
💪 A true test of pacing and strength
3. ELS ÀNGELS – THE CLASSIC GIRONA CLIMB
Just outside Girona city, Els Àngels is the most iconic and accessible climb in the area. It’s not the longest or steepest, but it’s a firm local favourite — perfect for testing the legs without committing to a full mountain day.
The Numbers
(via Girona – the classic approach)
📍 Distance: ~10 km
⛰ Elevation gain: ~500 m
🔝 Max elevation: 485 m
📊 Average gradient: ~5%
🔥 Max ramps: 10–12%
The Reward – A Girona Staple
At the top sits the Santuari dels Àngels, with open views back toward Girona city, the Empordà plains and, on clear days, the distant Pyrenees.
There’s a café at the summit, often filled with cyclists refuelling over coffee — a true social hub of Girona’s riding scene.
What Makes It Special
🚴 Starts straight from Girona city
🌳 Consistent, steady gradients
☕ Summit café with cycling atmosphere
🔁 Perfect for repeats or testing form
4. SANT GRAU – TOSSA DE MAR
Climbing up from the coast at Tossa de Mar, Sant Grau is one of the most beautiful sea-to-mountain ascents in the Girona province. It combines Mediterranean views, smooth tarmac and steady gradients — a classic Costa Brava experience.
The Numbers
(coastal approach)
📍 Distance: ~7 km
⛰ Elevation gain: ~420 m
🔝 Max elevation: 500 m
📊 Average gradient: ~4–5%
🔥 Max ramps: 14%
The Reward – Coast & Mountain Contrast
As you gain elevation, views open back toward the Mediterranean, offering that rare perspective where sea and mountains meet. The summit near the Sant Grau sanctuary feels peaceful and remote, with long rolling roads stretching ahead.
It’s less about brutality and more about the experience — the transition from coastal heat to cooler forest air.
What Makes It Special
🌍 Connects Girona’s inland routes with the coast
🌲 Remote feel despite coastal proximity
🔁 Endless loop possibilities
🚴 A must-ride for any Costa Brava cycling itinerary
5. SANTA PELLAIA – THE QUIET CLASSIC OF THE GAVARRES
Tucked into the Les Gavarres massif south of Girona, Santa Pellaia is a smooth, flowing climb that rewards rhythm and patience. Less brutal than Rocacorba and less famous than Els Àngels, it’s a local favourite for steady efforts on beautifully quiet roads.
The Numbers
(via Sant Sadurni de l’Heura – the classic approach)
📍 Distance: ~7 km
⛰ Elevation gain: ~240 m
🔝 Max elevation: 350 m
📊 Average gradient: ~4%
🔥 Max ramps: 7%
The Reward – Open Roads & Rolling Views
Near the top, the trees begin to thin and views open across the rolling countryside of the Baix Empordà. The summit area is peaceful and exposed, often with barely a car in sight.
There’s no bustling café scene here — just quiet roads, clean air, and the feeling of riding deep into Girona’s natural landscape.
What Makes It Special
🌲 Beautiful forest setting
🚗 Extremely low traffic
📈 Perfect for steady efforts
🔄 Links seamlessly into longer Costa Brava loops
