The Mussara Salou Costa Daurada cycling event will introduce a completely new route for its twelfth edition on 17 May 2026, focusing on the Priorat region. The event, which starts and finishes in Salou, is set to attract nearly 3,000 cyclists.
Organisers said the Tarragona cycling tour will feature new long and short distances, with Priorat as the main focus. After more than a decade as a key event in the national calendar, known for its large 'pink tide' of participants and routes linked to the Tarragona area, the 2026 design explores the Priorat county like never before.
Two Routes, One Identity
The long route will cover 183 kilometres with a cumulative positive elevation gain of 2,850 metres. Cyclists will ride through new and less common sections, travelling in the opposite direction to previous editions. This change will significantly alter the demands and effort management required from participants.
For those seeking a substantial but more manageable challenge, the short route will be 106 kilometres long and will pass through the Llaberia natural reserve. The long route will run entirely through the Serra de Montsant Natural Park, with a clear 'designation of origin' from Priorat.
Organisers are using this concept, borrowed from the region's renowned wine, to define an edition that highlights the territory and its scenery.
Iconic Climbs and Accumulated Demands
Salou will again serve as the logistical and festive hub for the event. From there, participants will face a demanding profile. The first major climb will be Coll de la Teixeta, which cyclists will ascend twice, on the way out and on the return. This will be followed by climbs to Torroja, described as shorter and more explosive, and Margalef, which is longer and more sustained.
The day's most challenging point will be the ascent to Mama Por, considered one of the toughest climbs in the region. This climb, over six kilometres long and the fourth difficulty of the day, is expected to be the decisive moment for those on the long route. In the final section, the 'wall' of Coll de Porrera and the last ascent of Teixeta will mark the return to Salou.
Thousands of cyclists, having completed either 183 or 106 kilometres, will cross the finish line together. This event will transform the Costa Daurada capital into a celebration of cycling, beyond the athletic demands.
