Greenways in Girona

Country: Spain, Catalonia

EUROPEAN GREENWAYS AWARD 2019

Among the earliest and most iconic railway-to-trail conversions in Spain is the 160 km network of Greenways Vies Verdes de Girona in Catalonia, which connects the Pyrenees to the Costa Brava. Its origins lie in the historic “carrilets” (narrow-gauge railways). In the late 19th century, private industrial entrepreneurs—supported by engineers and local communities—developed these so-called “cheap trains” to improve the transport of goods and access to ports, marking an important step in regional industrial development. Today, these former railway lines—once vital links between communities—have been beautifully restored and transformed into Greenways. 

One of the first major sections to be redeveloped was the Ruta del Carrilet I, running from Olot—a town known for its Baroque, Neoclassical, and Catalan Modernist architecture—to the outstanding medieval city of Girona. This approximately 55 km greenway features a gentle downhill profile and crosses three regions, passing through river valleys, volcanic landscapes, and charming towns. From Girona, the network continues along the Ruta del Carrilet II, which connects the city with the historic coastal town of Sant Feliu de Guíxols. This 41.9 km greenway offers a peaceful journey through a varied patchwork landscape of farmland and forest, with wide views on clear days stretching from the eastern Pyrenees to the Montseny and nearby mountain ranges. The Girona Greenways Consortium and public transport operator TEISA have launched a Bici Bus service along Girona’s popular greenways. Operating on weekends and holidays, the buses are equipped with trailers for transporting bicycles.

More information:

www.viesverdes.cat

Tour company

Cicloturisme i Medi Ambient: www.cicloturisme.com

Offer includes:

• Three days cycling on the greenways in a self‐ guided tour.
• Road books and maps to follow the route at your own pace.
• Two nights accommodation in a 3 * hotel and a farmhouse.
• Luggage transfer from on lodging to another.
• Assistance during the trip.
• Optional bike rental