Roses, Girona, will once again host the start of the Transpyr Coast to Coast cycling event on 31 May, now featuring four distinct participation modes. The race, a fixture on the international cycling and adventure calendar, has added a gravel category, alongside mountain bike (BTT), road, and e-bike options.
This expanded offering allows the route to cater to a wider range of participants, from mountain biking enthusiasts to those preferring smoother or assisted formats. Cyclists will begin their multi-stage journey from the Costa Brava, traversing high mountain landscapes, Pyrenean villages, and significant natural areas before reaching the Cantabrian Sea.
New Gravel Mode and International Reach
Oriol Sallent, director of Transpyr, announced the gravel mode as a key addition this year. "As we have done since the beginning of this sporting adventure, Transpyr continues to grow, adapting to changes and incorporating modes in line with new trends and interests in the cycling world," Sallent said. He added that the gravel itinerary is specifically adapted for this type of bicycle, while maintaining the event's characteristic spirit of adventure.
The event maintains its strong international character, with 65% of current participants coming from outside Spain. Additionally, 27% of cyclists are repeat participants, figures that show Transpyr's loyalty among athletes and its position within the sports tourism sector.
Economic and Tourism Impact for Roses
Miguel Ángel Muñoz, Roses' Councillor for Sports, highlighted the town's continued involvement. "For Roses, being part of Transpyr again reinforces our commitment to cycle tourism and nature-linked sporting events," Muñoz stated. He congratulated the Transpyr organisation for its professionalism and long history, and for expanding the event with the gravel mode, calling it "great news."
Fèlix Llorens, Councillor for Tourism, emphasised the importance of such events for Roses. He noted that they help project the area internationally and promote an active, de-seasonalised tourism model. "For Roses, it is a privilege and an opportunity that allows us to position ourselves prominently within the increasingly growing active tourism that the municipality has been backing in recent years, contributing to de-seasonalisation and complementing the family tourism typical of the high summer season," Llorens explained.
The municipality has increasingly tailored its services for cyclists, offering adapted accommodation, specialised services, and an environment that combines sea and mountains within a short distance. The local council views the event's impact very positively, both for promoting sports and tourism in the municipality, and for the number of overnight stays it generates.
Regarding the occupation generated by Transpyr, Oriol Sallent said that all 300 participating cyclists stay at least one night in Roses. Many are accompanied by family or friends, and 30% stay for two to three days to experience Roses before the competition begins. The race will conclude in Irun on 6 June, with stage towns including Camprodon, La Seu d’Urgell, El Pont de Suert or Vielha, Ainsa, Jaca, and Auritz or Eguesibar, depending on the chosen mode.
