Leave Barcelona and travel back to ancient times on this small-group tour of Catalonia’s medieval villages. Visit the beautifully preserved villages of Besalú and Tavertet and learn interesting facts about these historical locations from your guide. Have free time in Rupit village to see the Baroque-era Church of Sant Miquel and have a traditional Catalan lunch (own expense) at a local restaurant. Take in views of the remains of the Castle of Rupit, Castellfollit de la Roca and the Cingles de Tavertet sandstone cliffs. This small-group tour ensures you’ll receive personalized attention from your guide.
Pickup included
8.15am - You will start your day at our main office, which is right next to the famous Palau de la Musica. You will meet your guide, have time to use the restrooms, and perhaps even grab a quick coffee before the tour begin. Your guide will explain all about the day ahead and what to expect as you wait for you tour to leave.
8.30am - You will leave Barcelona though the Example district of town. As you head out of the city, your guide will give you a brief history of Barcelona, before letting you sit back and relax on the 90 minute drive to Besalu.
10.00am - The charming medieval village of Besalú is our first stop of the day.
You will begin with a walking tour of this ancient town, stopping to admire its streets lined with medieval-era architecture. You will have free time to wander around the narrow streets or to find a secluded café and sit back to watch people pass by.
Some of the highlights to visit are the 12th Century Romanesque Medieval bridge, the 11th Century Monastery of St. Pere, and the Jewish Baths, otherwise known as the Mikveh, dating back to the 12 Century.
12.30pm - From Besalú, we will head to Rupit. On the way, we will pass by Castellfollit de la Roca, located high up on the edge of a basalt precipice. It's one of the smallest towns in Catalonia with just 1,000 habitants living in just 3,280 square feet (1,000 square meters)
1.00pm - Once in Rupit, you’ll have around two hours to wander around this beautiful hamlet at your leisure.
You will be able to stroll the cobblestone roads lined with 16th-century houses, cross the city’s hanging wooden bridge, and make a visit Rupit’s baroque-era Church of Sant Miquel.
This is also where you will have lunch. There are a number of traditional restaurants to choose from. Your guide will be happy to help you, or even make a reservation for you. After lunch, you can visit the ruins of the Castle of Rupit set on a picturesque rocky peak, or you could even take a picnic and eat outside there.
From Rupit, we take a scenic drive towards the sandstone cliffs at Cingles de Tavertet.
4.00pm - In Tavertet, the final medieval village we visit, enjoy a short walk to the stunning cliffs overlooking Pantà de Sau lake. Hear a few details about the village from your guide before checking out the 11th-century romanesque Church of Sant Cristòfol.
5.30pm - Finish your trip with a ride back to Barcelona, during which you’ll enjoy vistas of verdant-green forests like Magatalls, along with the UNESCO Man and Biosphere-listed El Montseny natural park.
6.45pm - After a day stepping back in time we will arrive in Barcelona around 6.45pm. You guide will help you find a taxi or the way to the metro to return to your hotel, or recommend some restaurants where to have dinner.
Explore Catalunya Office. We are located in a little alley between the Palau de la Música building and Via Laietana, opposite the Palau de la Música's cafeteria.
Barcelona is a vibrant city on the northeastern coast of Spain, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere. It seamlessly blends medieval history with modernist masterpieces, making it a unique and appealing destination for travelers.
Antoni Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece, a stunning basilica that combines Gothic and Art Nouveau forms. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit.
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The historic heart of Barcelona, filled with medieval streets, ancient buildings, and hidden plazas.
Bread rubbed with tomato, garlic, and olive oil, often served as an appetizer.
A paella-like dish made with short, thin noodles, seafood, and saffron.
A Catalan version of crème brûlée, made with egg yolks, sugar, and cinnamon.
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The peak season offers pleasant weather and is ideal for exploring the city's attractions. The crowds are manageable, and the city is vibrant with festivals and events.
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