Tour Overview
- Total Distance: ~1,050 km
- Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
- Riding Level: Easy to Intermediate (Relaxed touring)
- Best Bike: BMW R1250RT / R1250GS / R18
- Season: March — November (Great for early season riding)
Why This Route?
Travel back in time to the days of the Knights Templar and the Kings of Aragon. This route avoids the high mountain snows, taking you instead through the warm, historic heartlands of Spain.
You will ride from the Mediterranean to the arid plains of Aragon, visiting UNESCO monasteries, Roman ruins, and cities that have remained unchanged since the 15th century. It is a journey of culture, stunning architecture, and wide-open roads perfect for cruising.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Barcelona — Lleida
The Cistercian Route
We head inland towards the Prades Mountains. The riding here is calm and scenic, leading us to the famous “Cistercian Triangle.”
This is the pantheon of the Aragonese kings. It is a massive, fortified complex that looks more like a castle than a monastery. We also pass through the walled medieval town of Montblanc.
The Finish: Lleida. Don’t forget to ride up to the Seu Vella, the old cathedral towering over the city, for a sunset view.
Overnight: Lleida.
Stats: ~200 km.
Day 2: Lleida — Zaragoza
The Ghost Town & The River
We follow the Segre and Ebro rivers, reaching Mequinenza (known for its massive catfish). As we cross into Aragon, the landscape becomes drier and more dramatic.
A haunting, emotional stop. Belchite was destroyed during the Spanish Civil War and left exactly as it was, as a memorial. Walking through the bombed-out church ruins is an unforgettable experience.
The Finish: Zaragoza, the capital of Aragon. Park the bikes and visit the colossal Basilica del Pilar by the river and the Aljafería Palace.
Overnight: Zaragoza.
Stats: ~230 km.
Day 3: Zaragoza — Sos del Rey Católico
Stone Medieval Villages
A shorter riding day, allowing plenty of time for photography. We head north into the “Cinco Villas” region. The roads here wind through rolling hills connecting ancient stone fortresses.
This town is a time capsule. It has hardly changed since the 15th century. It was the birthplace of Ferdinand II of Aragon. The narrow cobbled streets are perfect for a quiet evening stroll.
Overnight: Sos del Rey Católico (We recommend the historic Parador hotel).
Stats: ~160 km.
Day 4: Sos — Cardona
The Castle Run
We turn east, enjoying the fast, straight roads of Aragon that allow the BMW boxer engines to stretch their legs. We pass Monzón, home to a formidable Knights Templar castle.
We end the day at one of the most impregnable fortresses in Catalonia. Sitting atop a hill, it dominates the landscape. The castle (now a luxury hotel) offers incredible views of the “Salt Mountain” mines below.
Overnight: Cardona.
Stats: ~280 km.
Day 5: Cardona — Barcelona
The Catalan Heartland
The final leg takes us through the lush green countryside of central Catalonia. We stop in Vic to see its ancient Roman Temple and famous market square.
Before hitting the coast, we ride through the twists of the Montseny Natural Park, a biosphere reserve that offers a refreshing, green contrast to the arid plains of yesterday.
The Finish: Return the bikes in Barcelona.
Stats: ~180 km.
Included in This Self-Guided Tour:
- Motorcycle Rental: BMW R1250RT / R1250GS / F850GS (fully equipped).
- Navigation: Pre-programmed GPX files with historical points of interest.
- Route Book: A digital guide with history notes and restaurant recommendations.
- Support: 24/7 Phone & WhatsApp support.
- Hotels: A selection of Paradores and boutique historic hotels.
