subject: Keep Green By Cycling The Costa Dorada [print this page] Our world is becoming much more conscious about the environment that we live in. But whereas people used to just relate the term environmentally-friendly to organic food, itchy hemp clothing and renewable energy, it is now becoming a requirement for many types of travellers. A new breed of eco-conscious travellers means that for those working and operating in the travel and tourism industry, there is plenty of money to be made from those looking to book an environmentally-friendly holiday. One place aware of this trend is the Costa Dorada.
On the North East coast of Spain lies the stretch of coast known as the Costa Dorada (or the Costa Daurada). Located in the Catalonian province, the Golden Coast has for decades been a popular holiday spot for those seeking sun, sea and sand. Not just a place to catch a few rays, though, Costa Doradas stunning landscape and coastline also bring in the visitors.
The best way for environmentally conscious travellers to explore this landscape is on bike. Cyclists are well catered for in Costa Dorada as there are many kilometres of biking trails well mapped out, pleasing both day-trippers and long-distance cyclists alike. The centre for mountain biking in the area is Mont Roig del Camp where over 143 kilometres of biking itineraries are mapped out for bikers of all levels.
The coastal town of Cambrils is another popular spot for cyclists. Whether travellers want to simply explore the town (easily done via the towns many safe bike lanes) or set off into the surrounding countryside (Cambrils Tourist Office offers the best routes and maps), there are plenty of places to rent bikes in this coastal town.
Cycling is again a popular option for eco-conscious travellers visiting the Costa Brava. The Green Ways are a grid of biking routes which can be explored either independently or with a tour, tours of which operate from almost every town within the Costa Brava region. Many other environmentally friendly modes of transport can be used to explore both inland and offshore including hiking the volcanic area of the Garrotxa region, horse riding through the Pyrenees and kayaking or sailing along the stunning, rocky coastline. Whichever you choose, though, make sure you have a proper map and preferably a guide if you are a novice hiker, horse rider or sailor.
