From Girona: Girona, Banyoles, and Besalú with a slow and gastronomic experience

Exploring inland Catalonia becomes a truly enriching experience with this 7-hour tour from Girona, curated by Slow Moon Tours. Designed for those who appreciate a relaxed pace, authentic local cuisine, and in-depth cultural insights, this small-group journey takes you through Girona’s medieval old town, the tranquil Banyoles lake, and the charming Besalú village. The tour emphasizes a slow, gastronomic immersion, making it perfect for travelers eager to connect with the region’s history, nature, and culinary traditions.

A key feature of this experience is its small group size, limited to 15 participants, which guarantees personalized attention and a more relaxed, intimate atmosphere. The tour starts at the Pont de Sant Feliu in Girona, with a guided 2-hour walk through the ancient streets, before heading to Banyoles for a scenic lakeside walk. The day concludes in Besalú, a village celebrated for its preserved medieval architecture and scenic Romanesque bridge. The highlight is an authentic Catalan lunch at a local culinary association, offering dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients away from crowded tourist spots.

While the tour offers a comprehensive taste of these inland delights, some travelers should consider the physical requirements: comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, and it’s not suitable for children under 6 or individuals with mobility impairments. The transportation, via bus or coach, is included between stops, ensuring a smooth transition from one site to the next, with a total of about 2 hours of guided exploration and additional time for meals and sightseeing.

Key Points

• Small-group experience limited to 15 participants for personalized attention
• 7-hour tour starting from Passeig José Canalejas in Girona
• Guided 2-hour walk through Girona’s old town, including the Cathedral and Call Jueu
• Scenic visit to Lake Banyoles, with a guided walk to the stork viewpoint and visiting ruins of Font Pudosa
• Authentic Catalan lunch at a culinary association, focusing on seasonal, local ingredients
• The day ends with a stroll through Besalú’s medieval streets and iconic Romanesque bridge

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Starting Point at Passeig José Canalejas in Girona

The tour departs from a well-known meeting point on Passeig José Canalejas, where the guide, holding a “Slow Moon Tours” sign, awaits. This convenient location in Girona makes it easy to join the group and start the day’s explorations. The meeting point coordinates are 41.98805618286133, 2.822990655899048, providing a trusted spot for travelers arriving by public transport or private car.

The departure time varies, with options available depending on availability, so checking in advance helps plan the day smoothly. The journey begins with a 2-hour guided walking tour of Girona’s Barri Vell, the medieval old town, where the historical highlights come to life.

Exploring Girona’s Medieval Old Town

During the guided tour of Girona, the focus is on the imposing Cathedral, which is a striking feature of the city skyline. The guide leads visitors through narrow alleys, including the Call Jueu, the historic Jewish quarter, where the cobbled streets and centuries-old buildings evoke a step back in time. The colorful houses along the Onyar River add charm and vibrancy to the scenery.

This walk provides insights into Girona’s layered history and architecture, with the guide sharing stories behind the city’s most significant landmarks. The tour is paced leisurely to allow for picture-taking and for absorbing the atmosphere of this historic site.

Journey to Banyoles’ Scenic Lake

After exploring Girona, the group travels by bus or coach for approximately 30 minutes to the Lake Banyoles, the largest natural lake in Catalonia. Once there, a guided walk covers several highlights, including a viewpoint where storks can often be seen, and the Les Estunes forest, which offers peaceful natural surroundings.

The tour also features a visit to the ruins of Font Pudosa, thought to have once been a medieval water source. The walk lasts about one hour and emphasizes the tranquility and beauty of this natural area. The scenery provides a striking contrast to Girona’s urban medieval streets, showcasing the region’s diverse landscape.

Authentic Catalan Lunch at a Culinary Association

A key part of this tour is the Catalan lunch at a local culinary association. The experience focuses on traditional dishes prepared with seasonal and fresh ingredients, offering a genuine taste of local cuisine. This meal is away from tourist-heavy venues, giving a more authentic and relaxed dining experience.

The one-hour break allows for savoring regional flavors, perhaps sampling dishes like escudella, botifarra, or pa amb tomàquet, depending on the menu. The setting is friendly and informal, emphasizing local culinary traditions rather than commercialized options.

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Visiting the Medieval Village of Besalú

After lunch, the journey continues with a 30-minute bus ride to Besalú, a well-preserved medieval village famous for its Romanesque bridge that spans the Fluvià river. About one hour is allocated for strolling through its cobbled streets, discovering unique corners, and soaking in the historic charm.

Besalú’s architecture reflects its Jewish history and medieval past, making it an ideal spot for wandering and photography. The guide points out the key sights and shares stories of the village’s historical significance, providing a well-rounded picture of this scenic town.

Comfort and Practical Tips for the Day Trip

Travelers are advised to wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and varying weather conditions. While the tour is designed to be leisurely, some sites involve cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces, so good footwear helps maximize enjoyment.

The tour is not suitable for children under 6 years or those with mobility impairments, given the walking involved and the nature of the sites visited. The transportation between stops is included, with a total of about 2 hours of guided touring plus time allocated for meals and free exploration.

The Guide’s Role and Language Options

The tour features a live guide fluent in Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication and engaging storytelling. The guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience, making history and culture come alive through stories and background information.

Expect a relaxed pace, with opportunities for questions and interaction throughout the day. The small group size allows for a more personal connection and tailored attention.

Booking, Cancellation, and Flexibility

Reservations can be made with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility in case of changing plans. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, offering peace of mind and easy planning. The overall duration is 7 hours, with start times varying based on availability.

This tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a slow-paced, cultural, and gastronomic day in inland Catalonia, particularly suited for travelers who enjoy history, nature, and authentic food experiences in a relaxed setting.

The Unique Appeal of the Girona, Banyoles, and Besalú Tour

This tour combines the best of Catalonia’s inland heritage—the medieval streets of Girona, the peaceful scenery of Banyoles lake, and the historic charm of Besalú. The focus on a slow, gastronomic experience sets it apart from more hurried day trips, emphasizing quality over quantity.

The guided visits are well-balanced, allowing time to appreciate each location’s character without feeling rushed. The authentic Catalan lunch adds a genuine flavor to the experience, making it memorable beyond just sightseeing.

However, travelers should consider the physical requirements: some walking is involved on uneven surfaces, and the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges. The experience offers a perfect balance of history, nature, and cuisine for those looking to explore inland Catalonia authentically.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts 7 hours, starting from Girona and including visits to Girona, Banyoles, and Besalú.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Pont de Sant Feliu on Passeig José Canalejas in Girona.

Is transportation between sites included?
Yes, transportation by bus or coach is included between the stops, with travel times around 15 to 30 minutes.

What is included in the meal?
Participants enjoy an authentic Catalan lunch at a culinary association, featuring seasonal, traditional dishes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 6 years or travelers with mobility impairments.

What languages are available for the guide?
The tour is offered with a live guide speaking Spanish and English.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and outdoor activities.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to 15 participants for a more personalized experience.

Is the experience suitable for those seeking a quick sightseeing trip?
No, this tour emphasizes a slow, immersive approach, ideal for those wanting to connect deeply with the region’s culture and landscape.

Where can I find similar experiences?
Additional options include market tours, concerts, flamenco shows, and other day trips in the region, with links provided on the booking site.

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