Blessed with year-round good weather, brilliant roads, and a population that has a deep and loving relationship with the bicycle, this corner of Spain is perfect for riding. Italy and France might claim longer histories when it comes to racing, but these days Catalonia is the centre of the world for a large part of the professional peloton.
Downtown Girona is a foodie's paradise. On top of a rich culinary tradition that is constantly being reconsidered and reinvented by a host of talented chefs, it caters to the coffee connoisseur, with some of Europe's most stylish and sophisticated cafes, and for wine lovers, with a plethora of regional varietals to choose from. But the tastiest part of it all has to be the riding – it's guaranteed to have you coming back for seconds.
Salvidor Dalí, or a bottle of cava? Joan Miró or the Costa Brava? The majesty of Antoni Gaudí's masterpieces, or a humble selection of tapas shared with friends? Catalonia is many things to many people, but the one thing that everyone seems to agree on is that it is one of the best places in the world to vacation, with few destinations offering as rich a selection of culture, cuisine, and breathtaking scenery.
Pablo Picasso moved to Barcelona as a child and was admitted to the city's prestigious art academy aged just 13.
Cava, the world-famous sparkling wine, gets its name from the Catalan word for "caves," where the wine was traditionally stored.
Gaudi began the Basílica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família in 1882 but it is not expected to be completed before 2028.
Sean Kelly is the only non-Spanish rider since WWII to win the Volta a Catalunya more than once.
Barcelona FC, one of the world's most successful football teams.
The Volta a Catalunya, one of the most important races on the European calendar. Its route varies across the Catalan countryside but it traditionally ends on the iconic Montjuïc climb in Barcelona.
15-27c average temperature
Rolling countryside, short to medium mountain climbs, vineyards and olive groves, small towns, charming old streets in downtown Girona
"Pushing myself with new friends, feeling a hand on my back when I needed it, drinking in a gorgeous landscape – no better way to celebrate life and store the memories to get one through the cold, dark days of winter."
Steve Immelt
"Imagine what it's like to get the pro treatment on rides – bottles and food prepared, following cars to help with mechanicals, coaches out there helping you perform you best - and pair that with the best vacation of your life – massages every day, incredible food, wonderful hotels. That's inGamba."
Carlos Perea
Ever wondered what your perfect day on the bike would look like? We did too. InGamba was born from a desire to combine the world's best cycling with the most delicious local food and wine. We've made that dream a reality – and now we want to share it with you.
