Cycling in the Costa Brava
A classic Costa Brava road loop
This is a road cycling route par excellence, for cyclists chasing unforgettable roads, panoramic views, and just the right amount of suffering. Yes, the Costa Brava delivers all of this and more, in spades. This round-trip route from Begur to Tossa de Mar and back, featuring the legendary 365 Curvas coastal road, is a signature ride in north-eastern Spain — and is arguably one of the finest day rides in Europe. Time then to take a cycle ride into the mountains of the Costa Brava!
Route Information
Stats 125 km 2,200 metres
• Start/Finish: Begur
• Turnaround Point: Tossa de Mar
• Difficulty: Challenging
Road Surface: Excellent tarmac (GI-682 coastal road is especially smooth)
Refreshments & Where to Stay
Lots of places along the way, and especially at the turn-around point of Tossa de Mar
Character
A long but rewarding route, with climbs and coastal views, and the sun high in the sky. Road surface conditions are superb.
The route combines inland climbs, fast descents, scenic towns, and an out-and-back ride along one of the most sinuous roads in Europe. Whether you’re chasing fitness, a photo-worthy adventure, or pure road cycling pleasure, this ride offers it all.
Route
Outbound: Begur to Tossa de Mar (62.5 km)
1. Begur to Palamós (20 km, 300 m gain): Warming up with rolling inland terrain, the ride weaves through pine forests and traditional Catalan villages.
2. Palamós to Sant Feliu de Guíxols (20 km, 250 m gain): Fast, flatter terrain near the coast, good roads and mild traffic.
3. Sant Feliu to Tossa de Mar (365 Curvas) (22 km, 450 m gain): The highlight segment—22 km of tight curves, no long climbs but constant rollers, with cliffs plunging into the sea and pristine Mediterranean views.
Return: Tossa de Mar to Begur (62.5 km)
The return retraces the outbound route in reverse, but the feel of the climbs and descents will change:
1. Tossa to Sant Feliu: Feels slightly more uphill on the way back, especially the first half.
2. Sant Feliu to Palamós: A chance to recover and spin out the legs on flatter roads.
3. Final Climb to Begur: A short but demanding sting in the tail as you ascend back into town—prepare for tired legs and strong sea breezes.
Useful Information
Elevation Profile
• Max Elevation: 220 m (Begur hilltop)
Notable Climbs
• Coastal rollers on the GI-682 (short climbs, 6–10% gradients)
• Final 3 km ascent back into Begur (5–7% average)
This route is all about accumulated elevation—there are few long, sustained climbs, but the constant undulating terrain wears you down. Pacing and nutrition are key.
Road Cycling Highlights
1. The 365 Curvas (GI-682): Over 365 tight corners on a 22 km section between Sant Feliu and Tossa. It’s scenic, technical, and incredibly fun—especially with light traffic in early mornings or off-season.
2. Tossa de Mar: The perfect midway stop. Visit the walled medieval Old Town, refill bottles, and grab a café cortado by the beach.
3. Begur’s Return Climb: A fitting end to a demanding route, with panoramic views over the Cap de Begur and the Mediterranean.
Practical Tips
1. Traffic: Light to moderate, though summer weekends can bring coastal congestion—start early.
2. Refueling Stops:
3. Palamós and Sant Feliu both offer cafés and restaurants.
4. Tossa de Mar has many options for lunch, coffee, or a beach break.
5. Best Season: Spring and autumn—pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists, and ideal road conditions.
6. Gear Tips:
a. Compact gearing (e.g. 50/34 with 11–30 or 11–32) is helpful for the rollers and final climbs.
b. Bring a camera or insta360—you’ll regret leaving it behind.
Final Thoughts
Cycling the Begur–Tossa de Mar loop via the 365 Curvas is a Costa Brava classic. It’s scenic, challenging, and never dull. From medieval towns to turquoise coves and endless switchbacks, this route is a bucket-list ride for any serious cyclist visiting Catalonia.
