Girona cycling festival Sea Otter Europe breaks attendance record with 80,000

Sea Otter Europe, an international cycling festival in Girona, held its 10th edition over the weekend, closing Sunday with over 80,000 visitors, the busiest edition to date. Around 6,500 cyclists from more than 100 countries took part in the festival's sporting events, all of which had sold out before the festival began. 

Organizers estimate the festival generated an economic impact of around €40 million for the city of Girona, with the increased turnout credited to favorable weather leading up to the event. 

"These are things that we cannot control, and we would say that it was the perfect week," event director Albert Balcells said, noting that rain on Wednesday helped cool the air and settle dust, while sunny conditions over the weekend made for ideal cycling. 

Brands that have exhibited at the festival for years echoed that increased growth. Joel Casado, marketing manager for Scott, said it is essential for the company "to be present and in contact with the public," adding that the festival draws a mix of specialized cyclists and a more general audience, both of which fit with the bike models Scott sells.

A large showcase

Jaime Salvador, commercial director of the Girona-based brand Megamo, described the festival as "the epicenter of cycling throughout Europe." He said by participating, it allows brands to reach customers who want to test their bikes and retailers looking to carry their products. 

Organizers estimate about 75% of visitors are international, with the remaining 25% coming from Girona, the rest of Catalonia and other parts of Spain.

David Vaquero, head of communication and PR for Shimano Spain, called the event one of the "largest festivals held in Spain, in an area where there are a lot of fans." He said preparing for the event takes months, with several company staffers dedicating a full week to it.

One of the festival's draws is its high-end bike-testing area, where visitors can try out models on specially designed circuits before buying. One visitor, Fran, who accompanied groups testing an electric bike model, said many attendees sign up for the festival to determine which model and size best suits them. 

Another visitor, Ivan, travels around 100 km from Cervera every year in order "to try out some bikes, look at brands, promotions and new products." 

Balcells described Sea Otter Europe as an event "designed for the entire cycling family," bringing together world champions and recreational riders alike, along with local families who use the weekend to enjoy the event.

Doubts about the continuity of the festival in the city

The festival's continued presence in Girona beyond next year remains uncertain. Balcells said the event is confirmed in Girona through 2027, but he acknowledged "reluctance and problems" from local administrations in securing its future beyond that. 

One challenge, he said, is finding a larger venue to accommodate the festival's growth. Even so, he said Girona remains the organization's preferred location, citing its "acceptance of cyclists." 

Despite that uncertainty, organizers have already set dates for next year's edition, again in Girona from September 17-19, 2027. 

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