Garraf and Matarraña Gravel
with Jonah Luzier & friends

Gravel with different landscapes and terrain. We will pass through Beceite, Valderrobres (capital of Matarraña) and Portellada. Places of interest: Salt, Pena reservoir and  sanctuary Virgen de la Fuente. Gravel without complications (except for a path that exists before reaching Salt that you still have to walk 20m, it is the best way to reach Salt ).
We will pass through vineyards, the Matarraña River, roads where almost no cars pass and freshly trodden tracks!

We will ride through the towns of Monroyo, Rafales, Fornoles, La Fresneda, La Portellada and Torre del Compte. Places of interest ; Punta Molinera (surveillance point, incredible views), the Forcall (Poplar and unique tree of Aragon), Virgin of Grace Sanctuary, old Iberian towns: Tossal del Montañes and Torre Cremada, natural path of the Matarraña river and Desiderio viewpoint (an ancient shepherd of Torre del Compte). Spectacular gravel with lots of diversity in terms of terrain.

We will ride and fly by several old train stations (all on the greenway); Valderrobres, Cretas, Lledó/Arnes, Horta de Sant Joan, Bot, Prat de Compte, Pinell de Brai, Benifallet, Xerta… until you reach Tortosa. Places of interest: Ermita de los Santos, Coll del Alba, River Ebro Delta. Very easy and descending terrain. This old railway turned into bike path it is an amazing smooth freeride not just through territory but also through history since the trains that run this region played a major role on communications during the Spanish Civil war and one of its most cruel battles.
Mandatory:  We have to carry lights because the greenway tunnels do not have lights. (tail and front lights; as a recommendation…front light around 400 Lumens is enough, anything higher is welcomed)

Welcome to Sitges and the counties of Garraf and Penedes, better get used to vineyards…they are all over! This hilly Mediterranean region is going to be our playground for the next 3 days. Old family owned wineries and castles will pop out in front of us along the ride…you will keep asking yourself if such a traditional and ancient world can be located just 20 minutes away from Barcelona airport.

Today’s ride is the most classic gravel loop into the Garraf Massif and a favourite of the local riders. Get ready for great climbs, descents, amazing little towns…this ride has it all…towns like Olivella, Olesa de Bonesvalls, Begues and all their vineyards roads make for a priceless ride. This ride will make you understand why local riders have developed such a big love for gravel bikes.

…and we may have saved the best for the last…maybe… the ride up and to the town of Les Gunyoles it is an amazing, smooth, challenging climb…and amazingly great is the descent…from where we will lead towards the territory of the most ancient castle of the region, Castell d’Olerdola…its walls were made by ancient Romans more than 2000 years ago…and at its base we have the most beautiful winery of the area…Finca Viladellops…worth a stop, worth a visit!!! So peaceful and elegant…and completely surrounded by an amazing terrain…it is a true cycling paradise.

Unfortunately, your trip in Catalonia has come to an end.

Our shuttle will drop you off at Barcelona Airport.