Cycling the Maresme Mountains

The Maresme coast is an ideal place to rack up miles on flat terrain, enjoy views of the Mediterranean, the mountains of the Serralada Litoral, its charming villages, beaches, coves, and cliffs. We propose a circular adventure from Calella, approximately 90 kilometers long with nearly 900 meters of elevation gain, through the mountain passes of the Maresme.

To begin, between Calella and El Masnou, you have 40 flat kilometers to get comfortable on the handlebars, join any of the groups of cyclists that frequent the N-II highway, and achieve an average speed to be proud of. That is, if you resist the temptation to stop at one of the terraces in the coastal towns like Sant Pol de Mar, Canet de Mar, or Arenys de Mar, among others.

The climb from El Masnou to Turó de les Monges is gentle and takes you through a vineyard area of the Alella Designation of Origin. Next, enjoy a fun and scenic descent to Vilanova del Vallès. From there, a rolling section leads to La Roca del Vallès, where the climb to Òrrius begins along a beautiful mountain road with stunning panoramic views of the Vallès region. Òrrius is an ideal spot to stop and recharge.

The descent takes you to Argentona and Mataró, where you rejoin the N-II coastal highway and retrace your steps back to the starting point. Before arriving back in Calella, you'll be treated to a view of its lighthouse and long beach. To finish, indulge in a culinary delight at one of its many restaurants.