Via Verde Bike Tour: Cretas to Pinell de Brai with Pickup

Summary

Cycle past olive groves and tunnels from Cretas to Pinell de Brai

You’ll pedal from Cretas to Pinell de Brai past vineyards, ancient olive trees, and through echoing tunnels with a local guide leading the way. Expect cool forest air, quick stops at swimming pools, and van pickup at journey’s end. It’s not just about cycling—it’s about small moments: laughter in dark tunnels, cold water on your feet, and landscapes that linger after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We started in Cretas, bikes lined up in the early light, and I already smelled the dry grass mixed with something sweet—maybe those almond trees? Our guide Marta handed out helmets and maps, then pointed at the distant Rocas de Benet. “You’ll see them better soon,” she promised. The first stretch was mostly downhill (my legs thanked me), rolling between old vineyards and olive trees that looked like they’d seen a few centuries go by. Kids in our group kept racing ahead—honestly, I was a little jealous of their energy.

After Horta de Sant Joan the landscape just flipped on us. Suddenly it was all forest shade and these cool stone bridges. The tunnels surprised me—they’re darker than you’d expect, even with the spotlights they gave us (bring extra batteries if you can). There’s this echo inside that made us all laugh when someone sang out a line from a pop song. At one point I caught a whiff of pine sap, sharp and sticky in my nose—felt like summer camp for grownups.

Marta pointed out two spots where you could swim: L’Assud de Lledó and another pool near Fontcalda. We didn’t stop long enough for a real dip but just dangling my feet in was enough—cold shock up to my knees. The last part felt flatter but by then I was kind of hoping for more downhill again. The van met us at Estación de Prat del Compte for pickup; we were tired but nobody seemed in a rush to leave. I still think about that view back toward the Ports of Beceite as we loaded up the bikes—something about the late afternoon light on those rocks sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bike from Cretas to Pinell de Brai

• Depart from Cretas premises
• Enjoy panoramic views of Ports of Beceite
• Pass fields of vineyards and olive trees
• See Rocas de Benet rock formations
• Pass Horta de Sant Joan
• Enter Natural Park of Ports of Beceite
• Cross forests, ravines, tunnels, and bridges
• Bring good light for tunnels
• Visit bathing pools L´Assud de Lledo and Fontcalda
• Arrive at Pinell de Brai Station

Top questions

How long is the Via Verde bike tour from Cretas to Pinell de Brai?

The route covers 27km, mostly downhill with some flat sections.

Is this day trip suitable for children?

Yes, kids over 6 who can ride well can join; it’s family-friendly.

Are bikes and helmets included?

Yes, your bike and helmet are provided as part of the tour.

Do I need to bring anything special for the tunnels?

A good light is recommended; spotlights are provided for two bikes each.

Where does the van pick us up at the end?

The pickup is at Estación de Prat del Compte after finishing the route.

Can we swim during the tour?

You’ll pass two bathing pools: L’Assud de Lledó and one near Fontcalda.

Are pets allowed on this bike tour?

Yes, there are carts available so you can take your pet by bicycle.

Is it accessible for wheelchairs or travelers with limited mobility?

The tour is wheelchair accessible; specialized infant seats are also available.

What’s included

Your day includes a quality bicycle with helmet, spotlight shared between every two bikes for tunnel sections, backpack with spare parts plus chain to lock up if needed, road map and wristband discounts, as well as van pickup for both guests and bikes at Estación de Prat del Compte—all taxes included too.