Bike Trip Day 3 - Ripoll

Biking Options:

Gombrèn Route: 26 Miles* (3700’ elevation gain)
Ripoll Route: 33 Miles* (3800’)
Llanars Route: 52 Miles (4900’)
*with shuttle


Right after a big breakfast (yum!) we did the morning climb up Col de la Creueta, which at 
nearly 6,200 feet is one of the highest paved roads in the Pyrénées. The ascent starts almost as soon as we left Puigcerdà, but the grade isn't too harsh.  Winding slowly up the hillside, the Cerdanya Valley 

slowly recedes behind us and ahead La Molina Ski Resort comes into view. Finally at the top, the anticipation of a blissful 4,000-foot descent on a smooth snaking road was almost too much to grok. I'm sure there were people behind me, but they receded into the distance, too.  A sundrenched valley opened up and we took in amazing views of the Pedraforca peaks. This area is a cyclists mecca for cyclists.  Some of us stopped for a snack in Castellar de n’Hug, where villagers sell honey, salami and giant croissants.  We continued on to Gombrèn, home of the mythical (and quite evil!) Count Arnau. After cruising through the town of Campdevànol, the route turned south following a river gorge. The town of Ripoll (pronounced Ripoy) is the cradle of the Catalan nation, famous for its Benedictine monastery founded in 879 by the father of Catalunya, Wilfred the Hairy - where we were treated to an off-bike tour - and learned the legend of the Catalan flag.  It is comprised of four red stripes on a gold background, dates back to the 9th century and was created when Wilfred the Hairy was laying, fatally wounded during the siege of Barcelona by the Lleida army in 877AD.  His great ally, Charles the Bald, dipped four fingers into Wilfred's wound and drew them across The Hairy's golden shield.

Back on the bikes, we passed through the mountain town of Camprodon, and got a look at the ancient fortified bridge - typical of the area. We reached the settlement of Llanars, located in a side valley at the foot of the mountains. We stayed at Hotel Grevol for the next two nights.  Tonight's dinner was at the hotel; mm more of that hammy Catalan food.  I'm able to eat Escalivada, and manage to steer clear of the white meat that is Everywhere.

Pausing on a 4000' descent.  Richard managed to capture this amazing pan of the alpine countryside.  I was too busy jamming down the mountain at top speed to take any pictures. 

A little piece of heaven for me  :-)

Lunch in Campradon

Our fearless leaders: Eva, Danny, and David

Note the Catalan flag and coat of arms

Reflection on a rectory door

Tower of the monastery

Hotel Grevol in Llanars