Girona to la Bisbal d'Empordà via Coll de Portell Mountain Pass

The road runs in the Catalonia region of Spain, connecting the city of Girona to the town of la Bisbal d'Empordà. It traverses the Serralada Prelitoral, also known as the Catalan Pre-Coastal Range, a notable mountain range in the area. The route crosses the Coll de Portell mountain pass, which sits at an elevation of approximately 424 meters (1,388 feet). Girona lies near the starting point of the road, about 3 kilometers away, while la Bisbal d'Empordà is located roughly 7.8 kilometers from the start. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of this article.

The road is approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) long and is surfaced entirely with high-quality asphalt, rated 5 out of 5 for surface condition. It consists of two lanes throughout its length, with the majority of the road width being medium (about 70%) and a quarter of it wide enough to allow comfortable overtaking. Only a small portion (3%) is narrow. The road is moderately curvy, with a curviness rating of 2.29 on a scale where 3 is extremely twisty. This makes for an engaging ride without being overly technical.

The elevation varies from 109 meters (358 feet) at the lowest point to 462 meters (1,516 feet) at the highest, with the mountain pass Coll de Portell marking the highest elevation. Speed limits vary between 50 km/h (31 mph) and 70 km/h (44 mph), reflecting the road's mixed characteristics and safety considerations. Approximately 10% of the route passes through inhabited areas, primarily near the start and end points.

The Coll de Portell mountain pass is a key feature of this route, providing a natural crossing through the Catalan Pre-Coastal Range. The pass is situated at 423.5 meters (1,388 feet) elevation and offers a viewpoint that attracts visitors interested in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This viewpoint is a notable tourist attraction along the road, making it a worthwhile stop for riders seeking to combine motorcycling with sightseeing.

The road's passage through the Serralada Prelitoral mountain range adds to its appeal, as this range is known for its varied terrain and natural beauty. More information about the mountain range can be found on its Wikipedia page.

There is no evidence of seasonal or event-related closures affecting this road, and it remains accessible year-round for motorcyclists. The road does not currently have any tolls or entrance fees, but riders should be aware that toll conditions can change over time. For up-to-date information on road tolls and fees in Spain, the official Spanish traffic authority website or local government portals should be consulted.

This route from Girona to la Bisbal d'Empordà via the Coll de Portell mountain pass offers a well-maintained, moderately twisty ride through the Catalan Pre-Coastal Range. With excellent asphalt quality, two lanes throughout, and manageable elevation changes, it is suitable for riders looking for a balanced motorcycling experience. The viewpoint at the mountain pass provides a natural stopping point to appreciate the landscape.

For those planning a trip, the road's proximity to Girona and la Bisbal d'Empordà makes it easily accessible, and the relatively low proportion of inhabited areas ensures a mostly rural riding environment. An interactive map of the route is provided below to assist with navigation and trip planning.