Malgrat del Mar to Sant Feliu de Guixols

Malgrat de Mar to Sant Feliu de Guíxols

Cycling from Malgrat de Mar to Sant Feliu de Guíxols along the Costa Brava gave us a front-row seat to the stunning beauty and rich culture of Catalonia. The route treated us to sweeping views of the Mediterranean, winding through charming villages, ancient ruins, and the occasional medieval castle—each adding its own layer of depth to the ride. The coastline here is rugged and dramatic, dotted with hidden coves and surrounded by lush greenery. We immersed ourselves in the beauty of it all. While many of the small beach towns were quiet this time of year, we managed to find one restaurant that was open. We enjoyed a Catalan twist on the classic hamburger—grilled to perfection and topped with goat cheese, a balsamic glaze, caramelized onions, lettuce, and tomato. Absolutely delicious. Though the skies were overcast and the wind didn’t let up, the day was filled with natural beauty, cultural discovery, and culinary delights.

Planned Route

Actual Route

Llagostera Train Station

A good portion of today’s ride followed old railway lines that have been converted into cycleways—smooth, well-marked paths that cut through small towns and across the Catalan countryside. We passed several former train stations along the way, like this one in Llagostera. Some have been restored, some turned into homes, and others feel frozen in time, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the region’s past.

Hard-Packed Sand and Clay Trails

Not as fast as paved cycleways, but definitely quicker than some of the sandy paths we’ve been on. This stretch of the EuroVelo 8 (EV8) is in good shape—well-maintained and easy to ride, making for a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Johanas

We met this guy on the trail late in the day when we both stopped to refuel. Johanas is the real deal—a true cyclist, built for speed. Meanwhile, we’re just out here having fun, playing at cycling and trying to get back in shape. It was a nice moment of connection, and a reminder that it’s the people you meet along the way that often make the day.

Hamburger - Catalan Style

The day’s culinary highlight: a local twist on the classic hamburger—grilled to perfection and topped with creamy goat cheese, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, caramelized onions, fresh lettuce, and tomato.