Spanish sun and sea sets the stage for an epic training destination
Girona offers world class training terrain surrounded by beauty
If you are watching out the window while fat snowflakes gently fall as you pedal in your pain cave, you may be longing for sweet sunshine, bare road and challenging elevation.
The training mecca of Girona, Spain has everything your basement doesn’t. Blue sky, winding roads, open water and Spanish coffee. To many athletes who have experienced the thrill of Girona, it is considered a paradise for cycling. It is also the training ground of Olympian triathlete Martin Van Riel and 2024 Paris Olympic triathlon champion Cassandre Beaugrand, a favourite of Olympic gold medalist and three-time Ironman World Champion Jan Frodeno, and numerous professional cycling teams.
World class climbing
It is no accident that some of the fastest men and women on bikes chose Girona as their home base. It offers a huge variety of terrain with iconic climbs. Warm up for the big days on the rolling hills along the Costa Brava coastline with breathtaking Catalan views. There are no shortages of cafes and fine food to power through challenging and exhilarating days of swim, bike, run.
On your runs pass by historic landmarks, medieval architect and stunning views along ancient cobblestone. Swim in the ocean or lake, or train in a 50m pool. Refuel at one of several Michelin starred restaurants. The city itself oozes a triathlon and cycling lifestyle.
Boasting some of the world’s most famous cycling climbs with snaking routes that elevate you to incredible views of the valley below and the mountain chains that surround you. For the best bragging rights tackle the climbs of Rocacorba, Els Angels, Mas Llunes and Canet D’Adri. Train at altitude in the Cerdanya County to give you that edge at your next race.
Spectacular running routes
Not to be outdone by world class riding, Girona’s running routes also challenge the quads. The famous Sant Miquel will take your running legs to a peak that overlooks the city. For the flat and fast enthusiast, the route around Banyoles lake will distract you with its gleaming, calm water. Refresh with a post-run dip in the lake or a swim session. For trail lovers, the Cami De Ronda is a must do, with a lively route and coastal backdrop.
Rub shoulders with the pros
You may get to offer a wink from your kick board to a professional triathlete training in the lane next to you at Girona’s 50m pool, where age group and world class athletes train side-by-side. The nearby sea offers refreshing open water swim options where you can practice your sighting by choosing a landmark along the beautiful Costa Brava.
Accommodations in Girona vary from pricey hotels to modest hostels. Flying your bike is an option but renting one is not a problem in this cycling-centric culture. There are many qualified coaches offering training camps throughout the year, but a self-guided tour is easily navigated as the city is built to accommodate visitors and triathletes.
Summer months can be extremely hot in Spain. The most popular months to train are fall through spring, making now the perfect time for you to daydream on your indoor trainer and plan the details for next year while getting in some quality recovery time in your Normatecs.