Introducció al gravel (III): Centelles-Els Hostalets-Balenyà-Vic-Sentfores-Tona-Centelles

I am finishing the series of routes that, for convenience, I have called 'Introduction to gravel': of 22, 35, and 40 km respectively. This is, in fact, a variation of route No. II; it is a good sample of the landscapes of the plains of Malla and the upper basins of the Congost and middle Gurri, a taste of what the south of the region offers.

Like route II, it is entertaining and only demanding inasmuch as it accumulates some length, suitable both for relaxed sunlit rides and for setting speed goals or preparing for longer outings.

We will start from Centelles via Jesú street and the C-1413b (which will soon have a segregated lane on the eastern margin). We cross Els Hostalets in search of the Camí Ral, which we will follow to Balenyà. Then, via the Feu and Torrellebreta paths, we will reach the Camí del Quadre de Malla. Again on the Camí Ral, we will follow it to Montrodon and a little further, turning right towards Santa Eugènia de Berga. A few meters before reaching the old Hostalet del Bolló, we turn left onto the old path from Taradell to Vic.

Between Vic and La Guixa, we will ride on a comfortable gravel road parallel to the main road. We head towards the C-17 to cross it via an overpass; then we will ride on a path partly paved that leads us to cross the fairly busy Montrodon road. Once on the other side, we will be on the Camí del Verinal or La Casa Nova del Cuniller, which should lead us directly to Tona.

The last stretch back to Centelles will be via the camí de l'Ajuda. Before reaching the C-1413b, however, we have the option to avoid it by turning right onto an uncomplicated trail.