Paddle, Pedal, Trek: Crafting a Multi-Sport Weekend from Camping Les Medes
Looking to squeeze maximum adventure into just two days? A multi-sport weekend from Camping Les Medes lets you paddle, pedal, and trek in one of the Costa Brava’s most ecologically rich landscapes. With kayaking, cycling, and hiking all on the doorstep—and on-site support to help you plan—this is your blueprint for an action-packed escape that starts and ends at the campsite.
Why Camping Les Medes is the perfect base for a multi-sport weekend
Where you’ll be playing
- Montgrí, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park: The campsite sits inside this protected area, a mosaic of Mediterranean coastline, farmland, and limestone hills.
- The Medes Islands: A renowned archipelago one mile offshore from L’Estartit, celebrated for marine biodiversity and dramatic rock formations and tunnels where sunlight filters into blue-and-white contrasts underwater.
- The River Ter: Its mouth meets the Mediterranean about 2 kilometres from the campsite, ideal for an easy ride or walk to a wild coastal viewpoint.
On-site support that simplifies logistics
- Activity concierge at reception: The team can provide details and help arrange kayaking, cycling, hiking, boat trips, and more in the surrounding area.
- Bike rental and self-repair: Rent from 20 bicycles on site—including two electric models—issued on a first-come, first-served basis (no advance reservations). A small self-repair station with basic tools is available next to the rental area.
- Cyclist transfer support: If you’re linking your weekend to the Ter River route, the campsite can transfer riders and bikes to the starting point and forward luggage to booked hotels along the itinerary.
- Languages: Staff can assist you in Dutch, English, French, German, and Spanish.
Refuel and recover, right on site
- Snack bar–pizzeria (year-round): Indoor seating includes a small library corner for unhurried post-ride or post-hike downtime.
- Heated indoor pool and wellness: Enjoy the indoor heated pool (swim cap required under regional rules) and sauna; professional massage treatments are offered for an additional fee. Lockers are available in the indoor pool changing area.
- Family-friendly extras: Outdoor children’s play area, boules court, ping-pong table, and seasonal children’s entertainment (high season).
- Practical conveniences: Electric vehicle charging point, modern sanitary blocks with accessible facilities, baby baths, laundry, dog bathing room, and a chemical-toilet station for caravans and motorhomes.
Tip: For more ideas, browse the campsite’s Activities and Surroundings sections, or speak with reception on arrival.
The 48-hour itinerary: Paddle, pedal, trek
This plan assumes a Saturday–Sunday stay. Adjust the order based on sea conditions and personal preference. Mornings are often best for paddling when winds and boat traffic are typically lighter.
Day 1: Paddle the coast, then stretch your legs
1) Morning — Paddle session (2–3 hours)
- What to do: Join a guided kayaking outing along the L’Estartit coastline, skirting the base of the Montgrí cliffs and coves. Reception can connect you with trusted local providers and help you pick the right route and start time.
- Why it’s great: You’ll see the coastline from water level and warm up your upper body without overtaxing your legs ahead of the hikes and rides.
- What to bring: Quick-dry layers, water shoes, sun protection, and a dry bag for phone/essentials.
2) Midday — Refuel at base
- Eat & rest: Head back to Camping Les Medes for a relaxed lunch at the snack bar–pizzeria and a short break. Use the indoor changing areas and lockers if you head to the heated pool for a light recovery swim.
3) Afternoon — Coastal or countryside trek (2–3 hours)
- Option A: Montgrí coves walk. The rocky Montgrí coast hides small, well-preserved coves—most reached on foot or by boat. Choose a marked path suited to your fitness and time.
- Option B: Baix Ter paths to the river mouth. Walk out to the mouth of the River Ter. Open views and flat terrain make this an easy, leg-saving hike.
4) Evening — Recover and plan
- Wellness: Alternate heat and cool-down with the sauna and a short float in the indoor pool. Consider booking a massage to keep legs fresh for tomorrow’s ride.
- Plan: Check morning wind forecasts with reception to confirm cycling and hiking timings.
Day 2: Pedal the Baix Ter, then summit Montgrí Castle
1) Morning — Pedal the plains (2–4 hours)
- Route idea: Roll through the Baix Ter landscape toward the river mouth and surrounding lanes. Mix paved cycle paths with quiet agricultural roads for a scenic loop.
- On-site support: Rent from the campsite’s 20 bicycles (including two e-bikes) on a first-come basis. Use the self-repair tools for saddle height or minor adjustments.
- Logistics: Pack snacks and plenty of water. Reception can suggest route options tailored to your desired effort and time.
2) Midday — Lunch and reset
- Eat: Refuel at the snack bar–pizzeria or prepare a simple picnic at your pitch or bungalow.
- Rest: Take a short pool session to loosen up before the afternoon climb.
3) Afternoon — Trek to Montgrí Castle (2–3.5 hours)
- The goal: The iconic Montgrí Castle, built between 1294 and 1301 by order of King Jaume II. Though its interior was never completed, the ramparts offer sweeping 360° views: the Bay of Roses and Empúries, the Canigó and Pyrenees, and the L’Estartit–Medes gulf.
- Trail tips: Steady, stony paths reward sure footing. Bring water, a light jacket, and sun protection. Start earlier on hot days.
4) Evening — Celebrate the finish
- Wind-down: Share stories over pizza or a relaxed dinner. If you’ve still got energy, a gentle walk around L’Estartit caps the weekend.
Optional swap: Snorkel or dive instead of kayaking
If you’d like to replace the paddle session, the on-site Aquàtica diving centre (based at Camping Les Medes since 2017, operating since 1996) runs diving trips, courses and introductory dives, plus guided snorkelling around the Medes Islands and within the Natural Park. Dives are run in small groups from the boat Maria Mir, and the centre maintains a dedicated “campa” area for gearing up, rinsing and storage, along with an SSI-equipped classroom and a training pool.
Practical takeaways and tips
- Open all year: Camping Les Medes welcomes guests year-round, making shoulder seasons excellent for multi-sport weekends.
- Bikes on site: 20 bicycles available (including two electric models). Issued on a first-come, first-served basis; no advance reservations.
- Cyclist transfers (Ter Route): The campsite can transfer you and your bike to the route’s starting point and forward your luggage along the itinerary.
- Paddling arrangements: Reception can help you book kayak excursions or boat trips with local partners and match the outing to conditions.
- Swim cap rule: A swimming hat is compulsory in the indoor pool under regional regulations. Lockers are available in the changing area.
- Family-friendly base: Outdoor play area, boules court, ping-pong table, and supervised children’s activities in high season.
- Pet policy: Pets are welcome on camping plots until 5 July and again after 22 August; pets are not allowed in bungalows. During July and August, the campsite works with Canisapiens in Ventalló for dog leisure and care.
- Responsible travel: Camping Les Medes has run an ISO 14001 environmental-management system since 1999 and is investing in photovoltaic panels to increase on-site solar generation. Local partner Aquàtica promotes respectful diving to minimise environmental impact.
- Connectivity & convenience: Wi‑Fi is available (extra charge; one device at a time; free for bungalow guests in high season). On-site electric vehicle charging point available. Modern sanitary blocks include accessible cabins and a dog bathing room.
- BBQ & camping setup: Only portable barbecues are permitted and may be used only on days without strong wind. Pitches use CEE three-phase electrical sockets and standard Gardena ½" or ¾" hose connectors for water.
FAQs for a multi-sport weekend at Camping Les Medes
Can I combine kayaking, cycling and hiking in one weekend from the campsite?
Yes. Camping Les Medes sits inside the Montgrí, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park, with kayak, cycling and hiking options close by. Reception can help arrange routes and bookings.
Does the campsite rent bicycles?
Yes. There are 20 bicycles on site, including two electric models. They’re issued on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be reserved in advance.
Is there support for the Ter River cycling route?
Yes. The campsite can transfer cyclists and bikes to the route’s start and forward luggage to pre-booked hotels.
Do I need a swimming cap for the indoor pool?
Yes. Swim caps are compulsory in the indoor pool. Lockers are provided in the changing room.
Are pets allowed?
On camping plots: Pets are welcome until 5 July and after 22 August. In bungalows: Pets are not allowed. During high season, the campsite collaborates with Canisapiens in Ventalló for dog care.
Can I try snorkelling or diving instead of kayaking?
Yes. The on-site Aquàtica centre offers diving trips, courses, introductory dives and guided snorkelling within the Natural Park.
How far is the River Ter mouth for a quick ride or walk?
About 2 kilometres from the campsite, making it a straightforward outing.
Conclusion: Ready to paddle, pedal and trek?
A multi-sport weekend from Camping Les Medes unlocks the very best of the Montgrí, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park at your pace. With kayaking, cycling and hiking in easy reach—and on-site support to fine-tune your plan—you can pack a lot into just two days and still have time to recover in the pool or sauna.
Book your pitch or bungalow and ask reception to help tailor your paddle–pedal–trek itinerary. Contact: +34 972 75 18 05 or info@campinglesmedes.com.
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Looking for more ideas? Explore:
- The campsite Activities page for kayaking, boat trips, cycling and hiking inspiration: https://www.campinglesmedes.com/en/activities/
- Accommodation options: Bungalow Park – 4 persons, Bungalow Shop – 4 persons, Bungalow 2 persons, and Pitches