Medieval Villages & La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Hiking. Small Group Tour

Barcelona , Spain

Medieval Villages & La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Hiking. Small Group Tour

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(11 reviews)

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About this experience

We will start the day with a soft hike and a visit at Castellfollit de la Roca, one of the most scenic medieval villages in Catalonia dramatically perched atop a cliffside at the meeting point of two rivers.

We will continue to Sant Joan les Fonts where we will see the romanesque church and medieval bridge from XII century before , we start hiking across one of my favourite paths following 3 lava flows that have shaped the lanscapes of this region. Here we'll learn about the rural way of life of La Garrotxa. The area is simply beautiful and will put you in a zen-like mood.

After the hike we will head to Besalú, the best preserved medieval village in Catalonia, where first we will have some free time to have lunch (we can book a local restaurant for you).

Before comming back to Barcelona, we'll have a guided visit to Besalú where I'll show you the most unique spots of this beautiful medieval town; an authentic trip back in time!

Available options

Medieval Villages & La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Hiking. Small Group Tour

What's included

Hiking poles, personal insurance

Hike & visit to Castellfollit de la Roca

Professional English/Spanish-speaking local guide

Besalú guided visit

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Visit to Sant Joan les Fonts & hike at La Garrotxa Volcanic Area

Small-group tour maximum capacity 8 people per tour

Bottle of water

What you'll see

After about one and a half hour drive on a comfortable AC Minivan, we will arrive at La Garrotxa volcanic zone Natural Parc.

We will get ready and start hiking across the Fageda d’en Jordà, a unique beech forest growing at low altitude (550 m) upon the rugged undulating lava flow emitted by the Croscat volcano. This place is magic and full of peace and if visiting in autumn you will have the chance to see the spectacle of the colors of nature.

After leaving the Fageda, the path will take us into the volcanic area, starting with Santa Margarida, a volcano, whose explosion opened up a wide circular crater in whose midst stands today the eponymous Romanesque church. We will continue hiking through Croscat volcano which with its 160 m in height make it the highest volcanic cone in the Iberian Peninsula. For many years one of its flanks was quarried and today an impressive scar remains as a reminder of the once active quarry.

After about 3,5 hour pleasant hike we will arrive back to the starting point and we will go straight to our selected traditional local restaurant to enjoy a well deserved 3-course meal.

After lunch we will have the chance to see the picturesque town of Castellfollit de la Roca, rising up on a spectacular basalt crag formed by the superimposition of two lava flows, 50 metres high and nearly a kilometre long that has been shaped by the river Fluvià.

Before coming back to Barcelona we will head to Besalú, one of the best preserved catalan medieval towns, where you will feel travelling back in time. There we will enjoy a guided tour across its magical streets and have some free time.

What's not included

Tips (optional)

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

7 reviews

5★

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2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Please wear hiking / sport shoes and comfortable clothes

This is a rain or shine tour, please dress appropriately to the weather (La Garrotxa gets colder than Barcelona in winter!)

This is an active experience and includes a hike

Small Group maximum capacity 8 people per tour

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

Remember to bring snacks for the hike. Lunch is not included but we can book a traditional local restaurant for you.

Meeting point

Meeting point in front of el Nacional restaurant. Your guide will meet you here.

Important notes

• Please wear walking shoes and comfortable clothes

About Barcelona

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.

Top Attractions

Sagrada Família

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.

Architecture 1.5-2.5 hours €26-€34 (depending on access to towers)

Park Güell

Another Gaudí masterpiece, this park features colorful mosaics, whimsical structures, and beautiful city views.

Architecture 1.5-2 hours €10 (Monumental Zone)

La Rambla

A famous pedestrian street filled with shops, restaurants, street performers, and the famous La Boqueria market.

Street 1-2 hours Free (shopping and dining costs vary)

Casa Batlló

A unique building designed by Gaudí, known for its surrealist design and colorful façade.

Architecture 1 hour €35-€45 (depending on the tour)

Gothic Quarter

The historic heart of Barcelona, filled with medieval streets, ancient buildings, and hidden plazas.

Historical 2-3 hours Free (some attractions may have entry fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pa amb tomàquet

Bread rubbed with tomato, garlic, and olive oil, often served as an appetizer.

Snack Vegetarian

Fideuà

A paella-like dish made with short, thin noodles, seafood, and saffron.

Main Course Contains seafood

Crema Catalana

A Catalan version of crème brûlée, made with egg yolks, sugar, and cinnamon.

Dessert Vegetarian

Patatas Bravas

Fried potato cubes topped with a spicy tomato sauce and garlic aioli.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Montserrat Water sports in Barceloneta Rock climbing Beach lounging in Barceloneta Spa treatments Strolling through parks and gardens Visiting museums and galleries Attending festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

May to June, September to October

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.

20°C to 28°C 68°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Catalan, Spanish
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Barcelona is generally safe, but like any major city, it has its share of petty crime and scams. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in touristy areas and on public transportation.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in touristy areas and on public transportation.
• Be cautious of fake petitions or distractions to steal from you.

Getting there

By air

Barcelona-El Prat Airport • 12 km from city center

By train

Sants Station, Estació de França

By bus

Estació d'Autobusos Sants, Estació d'Autobusos Nord

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient, clean, and covers most of the city. It's a great way to get around quickly and affordably.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Cabify

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Eixample Gràcia Barceloneta Gothic Quarter El Raval

Day trips

Montserrat

50 km from Barcelona • Half day to full day

A stunning mountain range with a historic monastery, offering hiking, scenic views, and religious sites.

Girona

100 km from Barcelona • Full day

A charming medieval city with a well-preserved Jewish Quarter, a stunning cathedral, and a rich history.

Sitges

40 km from Barcelona • Half day to full day

A picturesque coastal town known for its beaches, nightlife, and historic sites.

Festivals

La Mercè Festival • Late September Sant Jordi • April 23 Festa Major de Gràcia • Mid-August

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Explore the city's neighborhoods on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and local culture.
Try local specialties like pa amb tomàquet, fideuà, and crema catalana at local markets and restaurants.
Use the T-Casual pass for unlimited travel on public transportation, which is more cost-effective than single tickets.
Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation, and keep an eye on your belongings.