Alt Empordà
Alt Empordà, the easternmost region of Catalonia and the Iberian Peninsula, is a territory where the Pyrenees fade into the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea. This area is particularly known for its wind swept and unique landscape. At the heart of this region lies Figueres, a city that blends the traditional with the unconventional, known for hosting some of Catalonia's most prestigious museums, such as the Dalí Theatre-Museum. Beyond its cultural wealth, Alt Empordà boasts stunning beaches along the Costa Brava, such as Portbou, Llançà, Grifeu beach, and Port de la Selva beach, which are true paradises for sun and sea lovers. Among its natural jewels, Empuriabrava stands out with the Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park, a sanctuary of natural oases with crystal-clear water and golden sand. Within this park, La Rubina and Can Comes beaches are presented as true virgin havens, offering ideal conditions for water sports, with a special focus on kite- and windsurfing. Peralada is known for its castle, casino, and the vineyards surrounding the village, offering a medieval atmosphere that enchants its visitors. Castelló d'Empúries, the former capital of the county of Empúries, has significant medieval heritage such as the Basilica of Santa María, the Old Bridge, and the Ecomuseum-Farinera.
Baix Empordà
Baix Empordà, anchored in the heart of the Costa Brava, unfolds as a vibrant canvas of contrasts and colors, where nature intertwines harmoniously with its historical and cultural heritage. This region, celebrated for its idyllic beaches, secret coves, medieval villages, and rich gastronomy, promises an unforgettable experience marked by beauty and tradition. Among its many jewels, we can find, Begur, which stands out with its imposing medieval castle, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean and its picturesque coves. The steep streets and colorful houses of this village tell stories of times past, adding a unique character. Pals, perched on a hill, is renowned for its spectacular views, cobblestone streets, and a magnificently preserved Gothic tower, inviting a journey through time with every step.
The village of Peratallada hosts one of the most impressive medieval complexes in Catalonia, with its walls, moats, and stone streets that transport you to medieval times, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. Calella de Palafrugell, a picturesque fishing village with its white houses and crystal-clear water coves, offers a perfect setting for rest and contemplation, while Tamariu and Llafranc shine for their beautiful beaches and elegant seafront promenades. In Monells and Platja d'Aro, the contrast between medieval tranquility and vibrant nightlife defines the diversity of Baix Empordà, showcasing a full spectrum of experiences, from serenity to cosmopolitan dynamism. Additionally, the region is home to precious small villages like Madremanya, Púbol, and La Pera, living testimonies of the rich Catalan history. Rupià, Parlavà, and Ultramort offer a glimpse into traditional rural life, while Corça and Sant Sadurní de l’Heura unfold rustic charm that enchants its visitors. Cruïlles emerges as a meeting point between history and nature, ideal for those seeking inspiration and tranquility. The interior of Baix Empordà, with its routes for cycling, hiking, and golf, invites you to enjoy nature, while the local markets are a window to the culture and traditions of the region, offering fresh products, crafts, and antiques, and very good food.
La Selva
La Selva, situated to the south of Girona province, derives its name, "The Forest," from its historical abundance of trees. Remnants of this lush past are still found within the Montseny massif and the Sierra de Les Guilleries, forming a complex network of forests. Close to the shoreline, forests of oak and cork oak give way to maritime pines as one approaches the sea. Yet, La Selva's essence extends beyond its verdant landscapes. Its coastline, a former haven of natural beauty, is characterized by a relatively short stretch of seafront hosting towns like Blanes, Lloret de Mar, and Tossa de Mar, each distinguished by a castle that oversees the surrounding area. These beaches, combined with imposing cliffs, provide a striking contrast. Within the heart of La Selva, expansive mountainous terrains unfold, marked by their stark terrain features and dense woodlands.
Here, the Camino de Sant Jaume connects with Montserrat from the border with France, crossing Girona and heading towards Olot. This route is an invitation to serenity, especially when passing through the Susqueda and Sau reservoirs. The plains of La Selva, on the other hand, are a region of communication between Barcelona and Girona, characterized by its flat topography and fertile lands. This area hosts significant population centers and a network of key communication routes. Here, the Camino de Sant Jaume splits into two branches, one heading towards the mountain and another leading pilgrim to Barcelona, crossing a region historically rich in ponds and wetlands.
La Garrotxa
La Garrotxa, a fertile territory formed by valleys, rivers, fields, farmhouses, forests, and small villages that maintain the rural essence of all time. In much of the southern half, more than 40 volcanoes and various lava flows form a gentle landscape with not too many slopes, protected by the Natural Park of the Volcanic Zone of La Garrotxa. However, from the Fluvià river valley northwards, the landscape changes radically; it becomes more abrupt and steep, with abundant ravines and gorges, leading to the Alta Garrotxa, an area declared a Natural Interest Space, just like Collsacabra and the Puigsacalm massif, both located to the west of the region. The valleys of Bas, Hostoles, and Bianya articulate much of La Garrotxa, one of the most forested regions in Catalonia.
The sunny slopes are occupied by holm oak forests. Oak groves predominate in the rest of the areas –in the Olot area, some of holm oak can be seen– and beech forests are found in the wettest sectors. It is worth delving into this landscape, whether on foot, by bike, on horseback, or in a balloon, whether on a dormant volcano or in the wildest mountains, observing butterflies, hearing animals in the middle of the night, discovering beautiful villages, and being in direct contact with nature.
Visit Olot, the main city of La Garrotxa, is famous for its impressive natural surroundings, with the Natural Park of the Volcanic Zone of La Garrotxa as one of its great treasures. Here, visitors can walk through surprising volcanic landscapes and admire volcanic cones, craters, and rivers of petrified lava. Olot is also known for its rich artistic tradition, with numerous local artists who have left their mark on the city. Besalú, known for its medieval bridge and its precise old town. Santa Pau is another treasure, with its beautiful streets and its castle. Additionally, don't miss Castellfollit de la Roca, a village built on an impressive basalt cliff.
Cerdanya
Cerdanya is a fascinating destination throughout the year, both in summer and winter. This mountainous region offers a range of landscapes, lush natural surroundings, historical architecture, and a rich cultural heritage. In this mountainous region, there is a curious place called Llivia, a village located on French soil but is Catalan, with its castle, old town, and the ancient Esteva Pharmacy, one of the oldest in Europe. The summit of La Tosa, with its impressive views, is an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor adventures. Additionally, Puigcerdà, the capital of Cerdanya, will surprise you with its colorful architecture and the beautiful Lake of Puigcerdà. The Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park, one of the largest natural spaces in Catalonia, offers varied vegetation and numerous routes to explore on foot, by bike, or on horseback. Bellver, with its architectural heritage and the rock paintings of the Ingla Valley, is full of history. The Llosa Valley, barely urbanized, is perfect for trail exploration and discovering the beautiful Muga lakes.
Ripoll
Ripoll, located in the heart of the Pyrenees and known as the cradle of Catalanism, is the destination for history and nature lovers. Its iconic Romanesque Monastery of Santa María de Ripoll, the old town of the city, is excellent for hiking and climbing.
Pla de l’Estany's
Pla de l’Estany's main attraction is the impressive Lake of Banyoles, one of the largest natural lakes in Spain. If you want, you can navigate by boat, rowing, or canoeing, or simply stroll along its shores. The old town of Banyoles is beautiful, with cobblestone streets and buildings with a lot of history. Don't miss the Church of Santa María dels Turers and the Darder Museum of Natural Sciences. Additionally, the Banyoles region is good for practicing hiking and cycling.
Girona and its capital
Girona and its capital Girona is the capital of this province, its old town is well known, and it is called "Barri Vell," with very pretty cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and houses by the river in colors. Visit the cathedral, the remains of the wall, the ancient Arab baths, and the famous "Call," one of the best-preserved Jewish quarters in Europe. Another locality to visit in this municipality is Salt near Girona with a great cultural diversity. Here you can explore the Parc de la Sèquia, a beautiful public park, and visit the Casa de la Música. Both cities offer a mix of history and culture worth exploring and can also be toured on foot. Visit our accommodations in the city of Girona.
