Discover how Girona went from being just another city to becoming the European cycling capital. A journey through more than a century of history, legendary riders, cycling tourism, and a passion that now defines the city’s very essence. Ready to ride through its story?
Girona has always been an attractive place for cyclists, but what we now know as the "cycling capital" is the result of a long process that began over a century ago. With every pedal stroke, the city has achieved milestones that have made it a unique destination for cycling enthusiasts. Below, we take a chronological journey to understand how Girona became what it is today: a place where cycling is part of its very essence.
1986: The Beginning of Professional Connections
Although the first cycling associations in the Girona province emerged in the late 19th century, it was in 1986 that Asturian cyclist Pere Muñoz took a key step in the history of local cycling. Thanks to his close friendship with Danish cyclist Johnny Weltz, Muñoz convinced him to settle in the Garrotxa region. This moment marked the beginning of a series of arrivals of professional cyclists who would see Girona as the perfect place to live and train.
1996: The Birth of Cycling Tourism in Girona
While the city was already beginning to attract some professional cyclists, the real turning point for cycling tourism in Girona came in 1996. Empar Baqué, a visionary in the sector, founded Cicloturisme, the first agency specializing in cycling tours. In 2005, Jaume Cabruja opened BikeCat, focusing on luxury tourism. These initiatives helped Girona gain recognition not just as a training base, but as the ultimate cycling tourism destination.
2001: The Arrival of Lance Armstrong
In 2001, Girona experienced a pivotal moment when Lance Armstrong, one of the world’s most famous cyclists, decided to settle in the city. Just about to win his second Tour de France, Armstrong chose Girona as his base, turning the city into the epicenter of international cycling. He wasn’t alone: Christian Vande Velde and George Hincapié already lived there, and in the following seasons, Tyler Hamilton and Floyd Landis joined. The presence of these major names led thousands of cyclists from all over the world to view Girona as the ideal place to train and live.
2006: David Millar Brings His Entire Team to Girona
In 2006, Scotsman David Millar, who had already visited Girona due to his friendship with Vande Velde, took an even bigger step. Not only did he move to the city, but he also persuaded his entire team, Garmin-Barracuda, to relocate to Girona and train there together. This move sparked an explosion in the local cycling community. In just ten years, the city became home to over 100 professional cyclists, cementing Girona as a preferred destination for the greatest names in world cycling.
2012: Girona Becomes a Refuge for Cyclists
As professional cyclists settled in the city, many began bringing their families and making Girona their permanent home. The names of great cyclists such as Chris Meier and other members of Garmin were added to those of Armstrong, Vande Velde, and Hincapié. Girona started to become the base for several professional teams, including Garmin, Orica-GreenEDGE, Argos Shimano, and BMC. The city was no longer just a stopover; it had become a true cycling community that embraced the city as their home.
2017: Girona Becomes the European Cycling Capital
In 2017, Girona reached a new milestone by being selected to host the first edition of Sea Otter Europe, a cycling festival that originally started in the United States. The celebration of this event solidified Girona as the "European Cycling Capital", attracting thousands of cyclists, brands, and enthusiasts.
2022: The Arrival of Major International Brands
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Girona continued to grow as a bike-friendly destination. In 2022, major international brands such as Italian Castelli and American Trek solidified their presence, opening new stores in the city center. This movement underscores Girona's importance in the world of cycling and its ability to attract both renowned brands and elite cyclists and tourists.
Girona: The Best Destination for Cycling Tourism
Today, Girona is the perfect place for any cycling enthusiast. The city boasts exceptional infrastructure for cyclists, from safe, well-marked routes to specialized accommodations, such as bike-friendly apartments. Additionally, the landscapes, ranging from the gentle hills of the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean coastline, offer a unique experience for cycling tourists of all levels.
If you are a cyclist and looking for a destination that combines history, natural beauty, and a vibrant cycling community, Girona is waiting for you with open arms. Every pedal stroke on its roads is a connection with the history of this sport in the city. Without a doubt, Girona continues to be a paradise for cyclists from all over the world.