You probably know the feeling. You plan another gravel ride in the Netherlands, open Komoot, ride the same sections again… and somewhere along the way, it all feels just a little less adventurous than you hoped. More mud than magic. More stopping than flow. More wind than mountains. And then you discover Girona.

In recent years, the Catalan cycling city has grown into Europe's premier gravel hotspot. Not only because of events like The Traka, but primarily because you can gravel ride here for days on end without ever getting the same feeling twice. From fast white gravel roads to rugged mountain passes and hidden forest routes: Girona feels as if it was built specifically for gravel bikes. But which routes should you absolutely not miss?

Also read: Why more and more cyclists are flocking to Girona before it gets too crowded

Why Girona is so perfect for gravel

What sets Girona apart from many other gravel destinations is the enormous variety within a single region. From the city, you can cycle within minutes:

• wide gravel roads
• technical forest trails
• quiet asphalt connections
• steep climbs
• fast descents
• coastal roads towards the Costa Brava

And perhaps even more importantly: the surface here is often perfect. No endless stretches of mud or thrashed paths, but fast gravel roads where you can really pick up the rhythm. That is why not only recreational cyclists are drawn to Girona, but also pro riders, bikepackers, and ultra racers.

1. Les Gavarres Loop, the gravel classic of Girona

Why this route makes everyone fall in love with gravel

If there is one route that perfectly demonstrates why Girona is a gravel mecca, it is the Les Gavarres Loop. This route runs through the Les Gavarres nature reserve, just outside Girona. Here you get exactly what gravel is all about:

• long, quiet gravel roads
• rolling climbs
• shady forests
• almost no traffic
• endless flow

You ride from gravel section to gravel section without having to constantly stop or navigate.

What makes this route so special?

The magic is in the rhythm. No extremely technical sections. No survival ride. But hours of riding in a landscape where everything is just right. For many cyclists, this is the perfect first introduction to gravel in Girona.

Highlights

• fast, wide gravel roads
• viewpoints over Catalonia
• gentle climbs
• ideal for long endurance training

Ideal for

• beginner gravel riders
• long winter rides
• bikepacking
• groups

Also read: Maatwerk fietsreizen: Waarom standaard aanbieders jouw droom nooit echt begrijpen

2. Girona-Costa Brava Gravel Route

The route where mountains and sea meet

This is the route where you think several times along the way: Why don't we have this closer to home? From Girona, you ride towards the Costa Brava via gravel roads and quiet back roads. Along the way, forests, hills, and coastal landscapes constantly alternate. And that makes this route unique. While many gravel routes are either mountainous or flat, this ride literally combines everything.

Why this ride is so popular

Here you get:

• gravel
• asphalt flow
• coastal roads
• technical pieces
• Mediterranean villages
• sea view

And it is precisely that variety that makes the ride addictive.

Highlights

• view over the Costa Brava
• gravel strips along old trade routes
• coffee stops in Catalan villages
• perfect mix of adventure and speed

Ideal for

• gravel riders who like variety
• photographers and content creators
• cyclists looking for a complete day experience

3. The Traka 200 Segments, the ultimate Girona gravel experience

Do you want to experience why The Traka became world-famous?

Then you should ride parts of the official Traka course. The famous gravel race, The Traka, definitively put Girona on the international gravel map. The 200-kilometer edition, in particular, is regarded as one of the most beautiful gravel routes in Europe. Fortunately, you don't have to ride a race to experience the same magic. Many cyclists ride individual segments of the course during their gravel trip.

Also read: The Traka: why thousands of gravel riders are afraid of missing the ultimate gravel week of Europe

Why this route feels so special

This is where you really notice how extensive the gravel network around Girona is.

You are driving:

• over fast gravel sections
• through remote nature reserves
• past old farmhouses
• over climbs that seem to go on endlessly

And everywhere you have that sense of adventure.

Highlights

• iconic Traka gravel tracks
• combination of speed and challenge
• perfect training route
• a true “bucket list gravel” experience

Ideal for

• experienced gravel riders
• sporty cyclists
• riders who want to test themselves

Why Girona is dangerously addictive for gravel riders

Many cyclists think that Girona is “just a beautiful cycling destination.” Until they ride there themselves. Because what makes Girona truly special is that everything here revolves around flow:

• the climate
• the subsurface
• the cycling culture
• the coffee stops
• the combination of nature and sport

After a few days, you often notice the same thing as thousands of other gravel riders: you actually don't want to leave anymore.

When is the best time to go to Girona for gravel?

These periods in particular are perfect:

Autumn (September – November)

• warm weather
• dry gravel roads
• less busy

Winter (December – February)

• ideal training conditions
• many hours of sunshine
• perfect alternative for Dutch winter rides

Spring (March – May)

• green nature
• pleasant temperatures
• ideal preparation for the cycling season

Also read: Why Girona is the ultimate cycling escape in winter

Why it is better to experience Girona now

Girona is growing rapidly as a gravel destination. More and more cyclists are discovering the region thanks to:

• The Traka
• social media
• professional cyclists
• gravel communities

And that is exactly why this feels like the moment to go. Before every hidden gravel section becomes a “well-known route.” Before it becomes a mass tourism destination. And before you ride the same local gravel loop all winter long again.

You are planning another cycling holiday. But deep down, you already know: you want more than the same Alpine passes or overcrowded Mallorca routes. You are looking for sun, perfect roads, epic gravel paths, good coffee, and a place where cycling isn't just a hobby, but a lifestyle. That is why so many road cyclists are talking about Girona these days.

What was once a hidden training base for pros has grown into one of the cycling capitals of Europe. And honestly? Anyone who has ridden in Girona once immediately understands why so many cyclists keep coming back.

Also read: The Traka: Why thousands of gravel riders are afraid of missing the ultimate cycling week in Girona

Why Girona is so popular among cyclists

Girona is located in Catalonia, about an hour from Barcelona. But as soon as you drive into the city, you immediately notice that everything here revolves around cycling. On the terraces, you see groups of road cyclists in Rapha jerseys, gravel bikes parked against coffee bars, and cyclists heading out everywhere towards the hills, the coast, or the mountains.

According to many cyclists, that very combination is unique:

• Perfect asphalt for road cyclists
• endless gravel routes
• quiet roads
• mild climate
• good coffee and restaurants
• professional cycling culture

On Reddit, gravel riders even call Girona “gravel paradise”.

Also read: Why Girona is the ideal cycling getaway in winter

Girona: perfect cycling weather all year round

Whereas in the Netherlands you are often dependent on rain radar and wind strength, you can ride in Girona almost all year round. Especially in spring and autumn, many Dutch and Belgian cyclists flock to Girona to put in training kilometers in the sun. The temperatures are pleasant, the roads relatively quiet, and you can start climbing or graveling directly from the city.

That makes Girona ideal for:

• training camps
• cycling trips with friends
• gravel holidays
• winter training
• combinations of cycling and vacation

Road cycling in Girona: from quiet roads to iconic climbs

For road bike enthusiasts, Girona feels like a playground. Within a few kilometers of the city, you are already cycling on rolling, traffic-free roads. Climbs such as Els Àngels, Rocacorba, and Sant Hilari have become legendary among cyclists. Many professional riders lived or trained in Girona for years due to that ideal combination of climate, infrastructure, and variety. As a result, a complete cycling culture developed around the city.

Why Girona might be even better for gravel

Yet many cyclists say the same thing these days: you only truly discover Girona on a gravel bike. Surrounding the city are hundreds of kilometers of unpaved roads, forest paths, and old trade routes. Here, you ride over fast gravel tracks, through forests, past vineyards, and towards the Costa Brava, often without encountering much traffic. The Les Gavarres region is particularly popular in this regard. This nature reserve combines wide gravel roads with technical sections and long, gentle climbs.

What makes Girona so strong for gravel:

• enormous variety of routes
• little traffic
• excellent ground
• combination of sea, mountains and forests
• routes for both beginners and ultra riders

Many cyclists even combine asphalt and gravel within a single ride. That makes Girona unique compared to many other cycling destinations.

The Traka definitively put Girona on the clay map.

The growth of gravel in Girona exploded, partly thanks to events such as The TrakaWhat started as a small gravel initiative grew into one of the largest gravel races in Europe. Nowadays, thousands of cyclists travel to Girona for distances ranging from 100 to over 300 kilometers. But the remarkable thing is: even outside of the events, Girona remains a gravel mecca. According to many visitors, every ride here feels like a mini-adventure.

Also read: The three most beautiful gravel routes in Girona

The atmosphere makes Girona different from other cycling destinations.

Of course, there are other places with beautiful roads. But Girona distinguishes itself primarily through its atmosphere. After your ride, you drink specialty coffee among professional cyclists, eat Catalan tapas in the old town, and stroll along medieval streets while bikes are parked against walls everywhere. This combination of sport, lifestyle, and holiday feeling ensures that Girona becomes more than just a training location for many cyclists.

What you absolutely must do during a cycling trip to Girona

During a cycling trip to Girona, you really shouldn't miss these experiences:

1 Cycle to the Costa Brava

From Girona, you can drive towards the coast via rolling roads and gravel paths. You will find spectacular sea views, especially around Begur and Cadaqués.

2 Climb Rocacorba

This climb has by now almost become a pilgrimage for cyclists. Not extremely long, but mercilessly steep in some sections.

3 Discover the gravel routes of Les Gavarres

Perfect for gravel riders who want to ride off-road for hours without constantly encountering traffic.ahotu.com)

4 Enjoy the coffee culture

Girona is known for its cycling cafés and specialty coffee scene. Many coffee bars were founded by (former) pros.

Why it is better to experience Girona now than later

More and more cyclists are discovering Girona. You can see this in the growth of international events, training camps, and gravel races. While Girona used to be primarily an insider tip among pros, it is now on the bucket list of thousands of amateur cyclists. And that is precisely why now might feel like the perfect time to go. Before everyone rides the same routes. Before the hidden gravel roads remain hidden. And before you think again: “Why haven’t I been here sooner?”

Also read: Maatwerk fietsreizen: Waarom standaard aanbieders jouw droom nooit echt begrijpen

You probably know the feeling. You see images on Instagram again of dusty gravel roads, sun-drenched climbs, and finish photos from Girona… while at home you think: “Why have I never done this before?”

That feeling grows stronger every year during The Traka in Girona. What once started as a small local gravel initiative has grown into one of the biggest and most iconic gravel races in Europe. And honestly: if gravel is your passion, The Traka is probably already secretly on your bucket list.

Also read: why more and more cyclists are drawn to Girona

Why The Traka attracts so many cyclists

At a time when many granfondos are becoming increasingly crowded and commercial, The Traka feels like an adventure. Not just a race, but a complete gravel experience. The combination of rugged gravel roads, endless nature, technical descents, and the unique atmosphere of Girona makes this event different from anything you ride in the Netherlands or Belgium. According to the organizers, the event revolves around community, inclusivity, and adventure.

In addition, the location helps enormously. Girona is seen by many cyclists as the gravel mecca of Europe. Around the city you will find:

• fast white gravel strips à la Strade Bianche
• technical trails towards the Pyrenees
• coastal roads along the Costa Brava
• Endless gravel routes directly from the city center

From hidden event to European gravel phenomenon

What makes The Traka special is how fast it grew. In 2019, fewer than a hundred participants lined up at the start. By now, the various distances attract more than 4,000 riders from dozens of countries. As a result, the event has grown into a fixture on the international gravel calendar. Not only amateurs travel to Girona, but also pros and former WorldTour riders appear at the start. In recent editions, names like Mads Würtz Schmidt and Rosa Klöser won the tough 360 km edition.

Also read: Why Girona is the ultimate cycling escape in winter.

What distances can you drive during The Traka?

One of The Traka's greatest strengths is that virtually every gravel rider finds a suitable challenge.

The Traka 100 – ideal as a first major gravel experience

Do you want to get a taste of the atmosphere without getting completely wrecked right away? Then the 100 km is perfect. You get the same epic surroundings, the same finish in Girona, and the same gravel experience, but without the extreme endurance strain of the longer distances.

The Traka 200 – the most popular part

The 200 kilometers has by now become the real main event. Why? Because this distance is tough enough to feel heroic, yet remains achievable for strong amateurs. With approximately 2,250 meters of elevation gain, you get a day full of dust, climbing, speed, and a mental battle. For many gravel riders, this is the distance they train for for months.

The Traka 360 – the ultimate test

This is where dreams and nightmares meet. More than 300 kilometers of gravel, thousands of meters of elevation gain, and hours of riding through the Catalan countryside. According to participants, during this ride you literally experience almost the entire gravel area around Girona. The Traka 360 is no longer an ordinary race. It is a mental expedition.

The Traka Adventure 560 – for ultra riders

For bikepackers and ultra-endurance fanatics, there is even a 560-kilometer edition. Here, everything revolves around survival, pacing, and mental resilience.

Why Girona is perfect for a gravel holiday

Even outside of The Traka, Girona is a paradise for cyclists. Many participants stay for several days or even weeks. That makes sense, because from the city you can literally ride a completely different gravel route every day. And at least as important: the atmosphere in Girona breathes cycling.

You will find there:

• specialty coffee bars full of cyclists
• Bike cafes run by ex-pros
• high-quality bike shops
• excellent Catalan restaurants
• car-free roads around the city

Many travelers therefore combine The Traka with a complete cycling holiday in Spain.

Also read: The three most beautiful gravel routes in Girona

The real reason why cyclists keep coming back

What makes The Traka special isn't just the kilometers. It lies in that moment when you ride back into Girona after hours of breathing in dust. When you see the terraces full of cyclists. Hear the music. And realize that you have done something that seemed impossible just months earlier. That feeling is what keeps many participants returning year after year. Because ultimately, gravel isn't just about speed. It's about adventure, freedom, and stories you'll be telling for years to come.

Is The Traka right for you?

If you like:

• long days on the bike
• adventure over perfect asphalt roads
• epic nature
• international cycling atmosphere
• challenge yourself physically and mentally

…then chances are high that The Traka is exactly the event you are looking for. And perhaps even more importantly: Girona is one of those places you want to have been to at least once as a cyclist before everyone says you are too late.

More information and registration is available via The Traka Official Website.

Also read: Maatwerk fietsreizen: Waarom standaard aanbieders jouw droom nooit echt begrijpen

1. Choose the right bike

Your bike will be your best friend over the next few days. For bikepacking, an all-road or gravel bike is ideal: sturdy enough for unpaved paths, yet light enough for long distances. Wide tires of at least 40mm provide comfort and grip, while tubeless tires reduce the risk of punctures. Test your bike fully loaded before you set off to make sure everything is in order.

2. Distribute your luggage wisely

A well-distributed load makes the difference between a comfortable ride and a nightmare. Use frame, handlebar, and saddlebags, and make sure your belongings are securely fastened. Place the heaviest items close to your bike's center of gravity. This will keep it stable, even on steep hills and rough trails.

Also read: How to prepare for a multi-day cycling trip

3. Think about water and food

In the wilderness, stores are scarce. Expect to need at least 2 liters of water per day, and bring a filter or purification tablets in case you encounter rivers or lakes. Food should be nutritious and light: nuts, energy bars, and dried fruit are ideal, but a small pasta or rice meal in the evening can do wonders for your energy.

4. Prepare for overnight stays

Self-supported camping often means camping in the wild. An ultralight tent or bivvy sack is easy to carry and quick to pitch. Check the climate and choose a sleeping bag suitable for nighttime temperatures. Find a safe spot, out of sight, protected from wind and rain. This way, sleeping in the wilderness becomes an experience instead of an inconvenience.

Also read: 10 handy tips for cycling in the mountains

5. Navigation is essential

Getting lost is not an option. A GPS or bike computer with preloaded routes is essential. But don't forget a paper map and compass as a backup. A phone with a power bank helps, and for areas without coverage, a satellite communicator can be a lifesaver.

6. Learn to repair on the go

In the wilderness, there's no one to fix your flat tire or chain problem. Make sure you have a multi-tool, tire levers, spare tubes, and a pump. Practice changing a flat tire, lubricating the chain, and adjusting the brakes beforehand. That way, you won't be faced with any surprises.

7. Test your setup on longer rides

Practice makes perfect. Do a few multi-day rides fully loaded. This way, you'll see if everything fits comfortably, if your food and water are properly distributed, and if your bike's mechanics are reliable. It's easier to spot minor problems at home than in the middle of the wilderness.

Also read: Setting goals for a Granfondo

8. Plan for the unexpected

Weather conditions, route problems, or equipment failures are all part of the experience. Plan ahead: bring a small first aid kit, a rain jacket, extra food, and tools. Being prepared means you can stay flexible and your adventure won't be abruptly ended by something minor.

9. Train your body and mind

Self-supported bikepacking requires endurance, but also mental strength. Long days in the saddle can be demanding, especially in remote areas. Learn to stay calm and focused, enjoy the silence, and be prepared to respect your own limits.

10. Enjoy the freedom

The best thing about a self-supported adventure is the absolute freedom. No schedules, no hotels, no shops. Just you, your bike, and the nature around you. Let go of the stresses of everyday life and immerse yourself in the landscape. The challenges along the way make the reward all the greater.

Conclusion:

A self-supported bikepacking event is a completely different experience than a weekend cycling through the Netherlands. With a good bike, smart luggage management, sufficient water and food, a safe place to sleep, and the right mental preparation, you can make your adventure a success. It requires planning and self-reliance, but the freedom and satisfaction you gain are unparalleled.

Also read: CYCLOsportive Adventure: Expedition Dolomites

The right tire can make the difference between a smooth ride and a day full of slipping, punctures, or lost time. In this article, we discuss the most important factors: width, tread pattern, pressure, tubeless options, and practical tips for the road.

Why tire choice is crucial

The Strade Bianche vary from compact grit to loose, dusty gravel. Often hard gravel and not too technical. That calls for:

• Grip in all directions – corners, climbs, and descents over gravel require lateral grip.
• Long-distance comfort – 40 km of rough terrain is no small feat. Comfortable tires reduce fatigue.
• Leak resistance – sharp stones and old patches of asphalt can end your day prematurely without the right setup.

Bandwidth: 30 mm to 35 mm

For Strade Bianche, experts recommend the following widths:

• 30 mm: A great choice for riders who value speed on asphalt but still want extra grip on the gravel sections.
• 32 mm: the balance between comfort, grip, and rolling resistance.
• 35 mm: Maximum grip and comfort on the unpaved section, ideal for less experienced gravel riders or heavily loaded bikes.

Why wider can be better:

• Larger contact area → better grip on gravel
• Lower pressure possible → more comfort
• Reduces fatigue over the 40 km of unpaved road

Profile: hybrid for asphalt and gravel

The GF Strade Bianche combines asphalt and unpaved sections. Choose a semi-open profile:

• Central tread: slightly ribbed or smooth for speed on asphalt
• Side blocks: for grip in corners and on loose gravel
• Extra protection: anti-leak layers for added security

Tubeless: almost a must

Tubeless tires offer great advantages:

• Lower pressure → better grip
• Sealant automatically closes small holes
• More comfort and trust

For beginners and advanced riders, tubeless is almost always the best choice.

Pressure settings: tubeless vs. inner tube

The correct pressure depends on your bandwidth, type of mounting, and personal preference. Here is a guideline for 30 mm, 32 mm and 35 mm:

Tips:

• Always start at the lower end of the range for the first few meters to feel how the tire reacts to the terrain.
• Tubeless can drive more safely at lower pressure thanks to the sealant and with less risk of pinch flats.
• Inner tube: higher pressure needed to avoid “sticking” or puncturing the gravel strips.

Reserve and preparation

• Take spare tires or wheels along
• Sealant check
• Mini pump and CO₂ cartridges
• Test your tires beforehand on similar terrain.

Practical choices per type of cyclist

Conclusion

For the GF Strade Bianche do you want tires that combine speed, grip, and comfort. 30 mm, 32 mm or 35 mm All three are valid choices, depending on your preference and experience. Tubeless, a good tread pattern, and the correct pressure make the difference. With the right tires, the 40 km of unpaved road becomes not an obstacle, but rather the most beautiful part of your ride.

What type of tires should I use?

The Strade Bianche is a race with a mix of paved and unpaved paths. This requires tires that provide grip on the gravel and are fast on the asphalt. For this classic, it is important to choose tires that offer the right balance between speed, grip and durability. The ideal tires for Strade Bianche are wide, with a light profile that provides sufficient grip on gravel roads, but is also suitable for fast asphalt strips.

The ideal tire width depends largely on your riding style and preferences. Tires with a slightly coarser tread for gravel roads can help minimize the loss of grip, while a tire with little tread optimizes your speed on the asphalt. Tubeless tires are recommended for Strade Bianche, as they reduce the risk of punctures and make the riding experience smoother.

Tire choice for the gravel bike at Strade Bianche

The gravel bike is designed for rougher surfaces and therefore offers more flexibility in tire choice. At Strade Bianche, the unpaved sections can be quite challenging, so it is important to choose tires that offer both comfort and grip on the gravel. For gravel races or rides on Strade Bianche, a tire width of 35 mm is ideal. This provides sufficient cushioning for the rough surfaces and reduces the chance of punctures, while still being able to ride fast on the asphalt.

Gravel bike tires often have a coarser tread than a road bike, which helps to maintain traction on loose, rocky terrain. If comfort and control are important to you, you can opt for tires with a more open tread on the sides for better grip in corners and on loose surfaces. If you decide to take part in GF Strade Bianche with your gravel bike, choose the narrowest gravel tire you can buy with the least tread possible.

Also read: Trento Gravel Escape

Tire choice for the racing bike at Strade Bianche

Although the racing bike is not traditionally intended for gravel, it is the best choice for GF Strade Bianche. Most racing bikes come standard with narrow tires, but for the Strade Bianche it is wise to consider wider tires. A tire width of 28 mm is the minimum, 30 mm is ideal. These widths are always fast, but offer more grip and comfort on gravel roads than 25 mm tires. It is important to choose a tire with a profile that can handle the asphalt, but also has sufficient grip on gravel paths.

For road bikes, it’s usually best to opt for mixed-terrain tires, such as semi-slick tires. These tires have a smooth tread for speed on asphalt, but with enough grooves on the sides for grip on dirt roads. Tubeless tires are also recommended here, as they significantly reduce the risk of punctures, especially on the rougher sections of the route. By opting for these tires, you can get the most out of the Strade Bianche without sacrificing speed or grip.

Also read: Strade Bianche Trail

Conclusion

Choosing the right tires for the Strade Bianche depends on the type of bike you ride and the balance you’re looking for between speed, grip, and comfort. Gravel bikers have more freedom to choose wider tires with a coarser tread for extra grip on gravel roads, while road cyclists will benefit from wider mixed tires that can handle both tarmac and gravel. Regardless of your choice, it’s important to choose tires that you feel comfortable with so you can ride the GF Strade Bainche with confidence.