An incredible holiday that combines a passion for cycling, and love of yoga in the stunning area of Girona. Our home for the seven nights is a historic treasure - a beautiful 17th century Catalonian homestead with ancient stone walls that shelter the ripening oranges. There is a swimming pool, or for those who prefer natural waters, the lake at Banyoles is only 1.5km down the road, where we can swim in its crystal clear waters. Iconic local cycling includes the climbs of Rocacorba and Montserrat mountain, but the mild weather and the empty flat roads make this area very popular with keen cyclists from around the world. Plan for 5 days of cycling and 6 sessions of meditation and mindful movement and 6 sessions of yoga.
I will offer daily practices of meditation to begin our days intentionally and mindfully. Our yoga asana sessions will be designed around the needs of the cyclist, but would also suit non-cycling partners. Tired legs, tight shoulders and backs can greatly benefit from the cross training benefits of yoga, aiding recovery and ensuring we continue to enjoy our cycling the next day. Seasoned yogis can be reassured that the yoga teachings are never diluted - you too will enjoy inspirational insights and plenty of meaningful time on your mat. This is a genuine retreat, with the option of cycling.
As a keen long distance triathlete I can have benefited greatly from a consistent yoga practice that spans a quarter of a century. I have worked with cyclists, runners and triathletes and offer specialised programmes for athletes as required. I am a senior teacher with the Yoga Alliance Professionals UK, a teacher trainer and I offer classes on the Isle of Wight and yoga retreats throughout Europe.
An exceptional character property with en-suite rooms and communal spaces full of ancient charm and luxury touches. The villa and the estate are perfectly situated beneath the mountains to offer the challenge of iconic climbs, or quiet rolling rural roads, or the hustle and bustle of the Costa Brava - just a pedal away. There is a swimming pool on site and proper training pools and a lake locally. The farmhouse houses a community of committed cycling hosts who anticipate all our needs.
Evening meal and breakfast is included in the price. Local, vegetarian and plentiful, the menu is created to fill the belly, repair the body and soothe the soul. Nothing is too much trouble and anything is possible when you are fuelled by good pastry according to the in house chef. A modest amount of wine and beer is included in the evening meal. Outside of mealtimes, coffee and tea are extra. There is one night when we eat in the local town, beside the lake at our own expense.
We will recommend certain flights to ensure straight forward cost efficient group transfers. Flights are to Girona from various airports. Transfers are extra and guests should budget for about £60 return from Girona or £160 return from Barcelona. Bike hire is possible at the villa with a fleet of Cervelo R3 road bikes, gravel bikes or electric bikes to fit all sizes. Car hire is cheap from the airports and guests might choose this option so as to make the most of their day off to go sight seeing.
There is the possibility of two cycle groups to accommodate the different concepts of a good day in the saddle. Stephen Goodier is a keen triathlete and cyclist with a great pedigree in mountain cycling. Emma will facilitate a slower group who perhaps enjoy stopping a little more often to enjoy the views. The key is that no-one gets left behind and the two groups will allow for everyone to have a great day.
