Hopsters Suites

After a day on the bike in Besalú, you can wander through the town’s medieval streets, enjoying the quiet atmosphere, and then unwind with good food and a craft beer at Hopsters. “For us, that combination makes Besalú a special base for a cycling trip,” say Lisa and Nash, who run Hopsters Boutique Suites, Hopsters Restaurant and Hopsters Brewery, a consummate offering for a memorable stay on two wheels.

Hopsters Restaurant Nafent Magazine

“The brewery came first,” says Lisa about the three projects she runs in the beautiful town of Besalú, around a thirty-minute drive from Girona. Nash, who attended the Westminster Kingsway College cooking school in London, adds: “We started as a small craft brewery because we believe in artisanal craftsmanship and independence.”

“What followed was our restaurant. When we opened, we avoided commercial brands completely and offered only homemade iced teas and sodas alongside our beers. Over time, of course, some compromises become necessary, but the philosophy remains the same: focus on quality, support local producers whenever possible, and stay authentic,” they say.

The owners of Hopsters have created something distinctive by combining three services into one experience. “The idea came from our own travels. Sometimes you want the comfort of a good hotel — a proper bed, quality furniture, a good shower. But after a long day, especially if you’ve been cycling, it’s also nice to prepare a small meal or snack yourself, while still being able to rely on hotel services.”

Hopsters has installed indoor hanging bike racks so bicycles are safe and secure, along with other practical touches that enhance a cyclist’s stay in Besalú. Lisa: “Because we’re located in the centre, you step outside and you’re already surrounded by history — right next to the Sant Pere Monastery. It’s the perfect place to begin a ride.”

Nash: “Road cyclists will find quiet roads with rolling terrain, as well as more demanding climbs in the surrounding hills. Gravel riders and mountain bikers have access to forest tracks, volcanic landscapes, and peaceful routes with very little traffic.”

Hopsters Boutique Suites

“What makes this area special is the scenery: volcanic cones, oak forests, open valleys, and small stone villages. It feels natural and unspoiled. You can plan relaxed scenic rides or more demanding training days with plenty of elevation. That flexibility is one of the region’s greatest strengths.”

Gastronomy

Gastronomy is an essential part of the complete cycling experience at Hopsters. From friends, guests, and locals who ride regularly, Lisa and Nash learned that after hours on the bike, riders look for food that is satisfying and high quality, but not overly complicated.

“There are clear parallels between craft brewing and cycling culture. Both value process, detail, and dedication. Both attract people who appreciate quality and experience rather than mass production. And both require patience — you can’t rush fermentation, and you can’t rush a good ride.”

“In the past,” Nash says, “riding may have been about speed or numbers. Now, though, I believe cycling represents balance. It’s a way to clear the head, to explore, to connect with nature and with friends. It teaches patience and humility — especially in a landscape like ours.”

“We wanted to bring together the best of both worlds: the comfort and quality of a hotel, combined with more space and the flexibility to feel at home for a few days,” adds Lisa.

“We hope guests leave with a sense of authenticity. Not something artificial or staged, but something real — memories of riding through volcanic hills, the taste of a locally brewed beer, walking through a medieval town in the evening, and sleeping well after a long day outdoors. It’s about creating a complete and welcoming experience, with the brewery, restaurant, and suites all under one roof.”

“If guests feel they’ve discovered something genuine — about the region and about themselves — then we’ve done our job.”

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