Thanks to the Greenways
Having a sporting and exercise background and a passion for travelling in Europe since my teenage years it was a natural step (or pedal!) for me to make cycling a regular holiday travel experience. However, not one for cycling along-side road traffic or undertaking lycra-clad challenges up the highest Alpine peak it soon became apparent that I needed to do some research. Thankfully, after searching online I found out about the Greenways network which were a relatively new trend in Europe and UK. Greenways provide sustainable pathways for non-motorized vehicles in both urban and rural parts of Europe. These sustainable leisure pathways include anything from quaint grassy trails, newly laid bicycle roads, winding city walkways, canal and riverside paths, disused railways lines and more. Wow! Perfect I thought.
After getting addicted to researching all the possibilities of the Greenways could bring, I eagerly planned to do a trip as soon as possible and one region really stood out for its extensive Greenway network, namely Catalonia.
Roll on Summer 2015
“Are you keen to do a bike touring trip to Catalonia then?” I said to Alex. Certainly, Alex did not take much convincing. Our research suggested that the Catalonia region was the place to do an amazing off-road cycle adventure. A trip on the Vias Verdes Greenway that links the city of Girona with the Mediterranean Sea and the foothills of the Pyrenees appeared very inspiring.
I could hardly wait to cycle the Vias Verdes with its traffic free cycling route of over 200 Km and featuring the “Ruta Del Carrilet” which used to be old railway line north of Girona. Indeed when on tour “Carrilet! Carrilet!” soon became Alex’s favourite words which he shouted enthusiastically every 10 minutes or so it seemed (haha!!). We used Girona as the starting point of the tour and completed a 350Km round trip enjoying the Catalan countryside and coast. Just awesome
The tour was everything I expected and more. The blazing sunshine, quality of the greenways and the dusty camino gravel trails provided great cycling. Furthermore, the variety and authenticity of the region made it an amazing travel experience. Think Catalan villages, white-washed coastal towns, quaint beaches, charming towns, the undiscovered city of Girona and a diverse range of national parks within the region.
Having returned regularly since we have grown our knowledge of the area and always have a great time along with our guests. Its always a pleasure to return to this underrated region and experience the awesome Greenways further. I`m glad I did my research.
Join us on our next tour in Catalonia: Catalonia Sept 2021
Let the Greenways bring you joy and pleasure of cycling at its best. Have you experienced an amazing Greenway? Email us and let us know about your adventure - we would love to hear from you.
Kelvin and Team