One of the most significant moments in the history of the Portbou border was during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) and the Second World War (1939-1945). During this period, many people crossed the border from Spain to France to escape the political persecution and repression of the Franco regime. It was also an escape point for Jewish refugees and others persecuted by the Nazi regime in Europe.

Today, the border between Portbou and Banyuls-sur-Mer is a quiet crossing point between Spain and France, and both places are popular tourist destinations on the Costa Brava.

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Best routes near Old Portbou Border Crossing

4.5

(23)

riders

1. View of Portbou – Port of Banyuls-sur-Mer loop from Portbou

33.1km

03:11

910m

Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

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Hard

4.0

(2)

riders

2. El Port de la Selva Viewpoint – View of Portbou loop from el Port de la Selva

44.8km

03:03

720m

Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

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Hard

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3. View of Portbou – Border Line loop from Cerbère

34.4km

03:23

1,030m

Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

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Hard

Details

Informations

Elevation 150 m

Weather

Tuesday 10 March

16°C

11°C

43 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h

Most visited during

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See nearby routes

Take Me There

Location: Portbou, Alt Emporda, Girona, Catalonia, Spain

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Old Portbou Border Crossing

1. View of Portbou – Port of Banyuls-sur-Mer loop from Portbou

2. El Port de la Selva Viewpoint – View of Portbou loop from el Port de la Selva

3. View of Portbou – Border Line loop from Cerbère

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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