Guide to Barcelona

The Exercise Guide to Barcelona: Running and Cycling Routes

Lunes 06 de Febrero de 2012 12:57

In and Around Barcelona

Sport is very popular in Barcelona and this Mediterranean city is ready for you! You will not find many cities that offer great exercise options outdoors and with open surroundings from mountains to beautiful beaches in a temperate climate, Barcelona is the perfect place to exercise. What is more, when you are running, bicycling or rollerblading in various locations of the Catalan Capital you will be greeted by breathtaking views.

Not matter your age, your personal goals or your purpose for exercise, doing it in Barcelona will be more satisfying and this is why we have prepared this guide so you can keep fit and achieve your personal goals at the same time as having a vacation. So let’s get a move on!

City Fitness

Running and walking are the best ways to explore Barcelona, since there are virtually no restrictions and you are free to go at your own pace, plus there are plenty of routes you can take to discover the city.

Even though Barcelona is a popular city amongst locals and tourists, running through the center is a must and if you feel you are lacking motivation, make your way to the areas of Sagrada Familia, the Agbar Tower, l'Arc de Triomf and the Passeig de Gracia. Moreover, most of the center is well structured and easy to navigate, so no matter which way you go, it's hard to miss these iconic landmarks. Most streets are long, wide and straight, so all you have to do is choose one.

If you are looking for a more testing course, try not to run across the city as you will be constantly dodging pedestrians and having to stop start at busy streets. However, if you want to walk, that’s a different story and well worth it, especially on a gorgeous summer day in Barcelona

Park Life

Parque de la Ciutadella is located in the city center, and is easily accessible for some light running, or walking.  Whatever your preferred choice is, the park is home to the Museum of Zoology, the Museum of Geology, the Barcelona Zoo as well as various gardens and groves, so this is the ideal place for a picnic or to relax after doing some exercise.

Collserola Park situated in the “Zona Alta” of Barcelona and offers the best challenge for runners and hikers. The scenery is also spectacular as you are surrounded by medieval ruins, Romanesque churches and country houses, plus if you get hungry afterwards there are plenty of places to grab a snack or a cold drink.

Montjuïc Mountains and the Beaches

Imagine of 4.5 kilometers (2.8 miles) of coastline, which is exactly what you get in Barceloneta in Barcelona, which is home to seven beaches in total. The boardwalk that runs along the beaches is ideal, not just for runners and walkers, but also for cyclists and skaters, plus the sea breeze keeps you refreshed the whole way.

For a central location and wide open spaces, then Montjuïc Park is for you, be it for running or walking. There are many possible routes to follow: for example, starting at the Stadium Serrahima and continuing along Miramar Avenue, which passes the Olympic Stadium and Palau Sant Jordi.

Whether you come to Barcelona for a holiday or a chance to relax and blow of some steam, booking a vacation apartment in barcelona or a short stay apartment is the best way to see the heart of the city.