Barcelona: Tour Besalu, Costa Brava with Cami de Ronda and medieval villages

Key Points

• Duration and Price: The full-day tour lasts 9 hours and costs $340 per person.
• Highlights: Visit Besalú, walk the Cami de Ronda, and explore Pals.
• Expert Guides: A tour guide-driver leads the experience, with small group sizes up to 15 participants.
• Cultural and Historic Focus: The tour emphasizes medieval architecture, Jewish heritage, and ancient coastal pathways.
• Comfort and Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with audio guides available in multiple languages.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Explore Catalonia’s Historic Town of Besalú and Its Iconic Old Bridge

The tour begins with a scenic drive from Barcelona to the picturesque village of Besalú, renowned for its medieval charm. The centerpiece is the Old Bridge, believed to have origins in the eleventh century, built atop a Roman structure and reconstructed over centuries. This photogenic bridge features two angled spans and a central tower with a small arch, making it a favorite for photographers.

In the town center, the tour guides you through narrow winding streets filled with medieval facades. The visit includes ecclesiastical monuments such as the churches of Sant Pere, Santa Maria, and Sant Vicenç, which display a mix of Romanesque and Gothic elements. A walk through the Jewish quarter allows visitors to see medieval baths used for Hebrew ritual ablutions, adding a layer of cultural richness to the visit.

Walking Along the Historic Cami de Ronda on the Costa Brava

After exploring Besalú, the journey continues toward the Costa Brava, where the Cami de Ronda awaits. This ancient coastal pathway was originally used by settlers to defend against pirate attacks. The tour features a 1.5 km walk along this classic trail, which interlaces small coves and crystal-clear waters.

During this walk, travelers can expect stunning views of the rugged coastline and hidden seaside coves, perfect for photography. The route is leisurely, making it suitable for most fitness levels. At the midpoint, there is an opportunity to enjoy lunch on terraces overlooking the sea, providing a perfect chance to relax and take in the scenic surroundings.

Visiting the Monumental Lighthouse of Sant Sebastia and the Iberian Settlements

The tour also includes a visit to the Monumental area of the Lighthouse of Sant Sebastia, a site that features Iberian settlements dating back centuries. This area offers panoramic views of the coast and a glimpse into ancient defensive structures used by early settlers.

Close to this site is the Ullastret, considered the most significant Iberian settlement in ancient Hispania. Visitors can walk around this archaeological site to better understand the early inhabitants of the region and their settlement strategies.

The Medieval Village of Pals and Its Tower of Hours

The final destination on the tour is the medieval village of Pals, notable for its cobbled streets that seem to transport visitors to a different time. The Torre de les Hores is a key highlight, offering impressive panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and coastline from its viewpoint.

In Pals, the walk takes you through narrow streets lined with stone buildings and local shops, creating an authentic medieval atmosphere. The village’s charm makes it a popular spot for photos and leisurely exploration before heading back to Barcelona.

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Convenient Logistics and Small Group Experience

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring smooth transportation from Barcelona. The vehicle is adapted to the number of participants, maintaining a small group environment capped at 15 people for a more personal experience.

A tour guide-driver accompanies the trip, providing insights in English, Spanish, or Arabic, with audio guides available in French, Portuguese, Italian, and German. This setup allows for a flexible and informative journey, suited for travelers seeking both comfort and knowledge.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers the entire itinerary, including Besalú, the Sant Sebastia Lighthouse, the Cami de Ronda, and Pals. It also includes transportation and a guide-driver. However, lunch, soft drinks, and snacks are not included, so travelers should plan accordingly.

The booking process offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility to adjust plans if needed. The tour operates as a private group, making it ideal for those seeking a more intimate experience.

Experience Quality and Customer Feedback

Based on recent feedback, the tour earns a top rating of 5 out of 5. Participants praise the knowledgeable guides, particularly noting the personalized attention and expertise of guides like Rod. The stunning views along the coast and the well-planned itinerary are highlighted as major strengths, making this tour a popular choice for those interested in history, scenery, and cultural insights.

Barcelona: Tour Besalu, Costa Brava with Cami de Ronda and medieval villages

This 9-hour tour from Barcelona provides a comprehensive experience of Catalonia’s highlights, combining medieval architecture, coastal walks, and historic villages. The $340 per person price includes transport, guide, and key visits, making it a convenient way to explore multiple sites in one day.

The small group format ensures personalized attention and an opportunity to learn from expert guides. The tour is suitable for those interested in culture, history, and scenic landscapes, offering a well-paced itinerary that balances walking and sightseeing.

While it does not include lunch, there are terrace stops for meals with sea views, and plenty of photo opportunities along the way. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate historical sites, coastal vistas, and medieval towns in a relaxed setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour from start to finish?
The tour lasts 9 hours from hotel pickup in Barcelona to return.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $340 per person, including transportation and guided visits.

Are meals included?
No, lunch, soft drinks, and snacks are not included. There are options to eat at seaside terraces during the Cami de Ronda walk.

What languages are available for guides and audio?
The tour guide-driver provides commentary in Arabic, Spanish, and English, while audio guides are available in French, Portuguese, Italian, and German.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
The tour involves walking along medieval streets and coastal paths, so it may require moderate walking. Comfort with walking on cobbled streets and uneven terrain is recommended.

What is included in the tour?
Pickup and drop-off at hotel, guided visits to Besalú, Pals, and other sites, walk along the Cami de Ronda, and visits to Iberian settlements.

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

Is it necessary to book in advance?
Yes, to guarantee availability and reserve your spot, advance booking is recommended.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and sports shoes for walking.

What sets this tour apart from others?
The personalized small group experience, expert guide insights, and the combination of historic villages and coastal scenery make this a memorable way to explore Catalonia’s medieval and seaside attractions.

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