Girona is one of the most important cycling destinations all over the world. A very significant cycling climb around Girona is Sant Pere de Rodes Monastery.
The variety of routes is also a very good reason to come to Girona for cycling. Flat tiny roads, together with scenic routes and also steep climbs, so close the Pyrenees are.
Sant Pere de Rodes has 2 sides to climb from. One from Vilajuiga and the second one from the sea, from Port de la Selva. Especially recommended Port de la Selva side, as the views over the Mediterranean sea are amazing, and the climb is a little steeper than Vilajuiga side. On top of that, this side has been recently asphalted, then the road is in perfect conditions for the road bikes!
No need to say that one of the main appeals of this climb (whichever the side) is the impressive monastery on top. This Monastery refers to Romanic Catalan art and was built in the XI century.
Some interesting loop including Sant Pere de Rodes
There are several very interesting loops in which to include Monestir de Sant Pere de Rodes. Maybe the most interesting is starting in Perelada (a nice wine destination by the way), and getting France via Coll de Banyuls. Then return to Spain on the very nice coastal road to Llançà and Port de la Selva. Once there climbing Sant Pere de Rodes and finally descent to Vilajuiga and back to Perelada.
It is also worth mentioning that this area close to France is sometimes hit by fast winds (the so-called Tramuntana). It could make really hard even to get up on a bike. Be careful if the Tramuntana is blowing!
Cycling in Sant Pere de Rodes and the climb to the Monastery is a big challenge in Girona, worth a try!
