Girona: Europe's Cycling Mecca Faces 'Unmanageable' Influx of Riders

Girona, Spain, a city of just over 100,000 inhabitants, has firmly established itself as Europe's cycling mecca. Located about 90 minutes from Barcelona, the city draws a diverse cycling population, from aspiring professionals and seasoned gravel riders to recreational cyclists and remote workers combining their passion with their jobs. The city's appeal lies in its exceptional climate, offering mild winters ideal for year-round training, and its strategic location with excellent accessibility, including its own airport and a high-speed train to Barcelona.

The surrounding landscape provides a perfect training ground, featuring quiet backroads and challenging climbs in the nearby Pyrenees. This combination of factors has led to an explosion of cycling-related businesses, including numerous cafes, rental shops, and services catering to the constant stream of cyclists. The Pont de Pedra bridge in the city center serves as a popular meeting point for riders before they embark on training rides through the picturesque hills.

Among the many who have relocated to Girona is former professional cyclist Jetse Bol. Originally from the Netherlands, Bol moved to the city in 2014 with his wife, seeking a better environment for training and living. He describes Girona as a place where cyclists can train effectively throughout the year, benefiting from the accessible routes and supportive community.

Despite its status as a cycling paradise, the sheer volume of cyclists is beginning to strain the city's resources. The article notes that the influx of cycling enthusiasts is becoming 'unmanageable,' suggesting that the infrastructure and local services are struggling to keep pace with the demand. This growing pressure raises questions about how Girona will sustain its reputation as a premier cycling destination while mitigating the potential negative impacts of its popularity.

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For my wife, things were difficult in Avenhorn, she found it hard to settle there. We had a training camp here with my team. I came back and told my wife: at the end of the year, we pack our things and see if we like it better in Girona. We never went back.