Medieval Three Villages Small Group Day Trip from Barcelona

Key Points

• Cost: $103.23 per person, with bookings typically made 53 days in advance
• Duration: Approximately 10 hours 30 minutes, including travel and sightseeing
• Main stops: Besalú with its medieval synagogue, Rupit with its cobblestone streets, Tavertet’s cliffs, and Castellfollit de la Roca
• Guided exploration: In-depth walking tours led by knowledgeable guides
• Highlights: Stunning countryside views, medieval architecture, a visit to a Jewish bath, and scenic overlooks at Tavertet
• Group size: Small groups limited to 20 participants for a more personalized experience

Exploring the Medieval Charm of Girona’s Countryside

This small group day trip from Barcelona costs $103.23 per person and spans over 10.5 hours. It offers a seamless journey to some of Catalonia’s most picturesque medieval villages, complemented by scenic drives through lush landscapes. The tour is ideal for those wanting a relaxed yet richly informative experience outside the busy city, with highly praised guides and well-paced stops.

You’ll depart from central Barcelona at 8:30 am, heading in an air-conditioned vehicle through the Catalan countryside. The first stop, Besalú, is famed for its 12th-century Romanesque bridge and medieval synagogue. The guides excel at explaining the significance of these sites, while the narrow streets lined with historic architecture invite leisurely wandering.

Besalú: A Step Back in Medieval Time

Besalú is the tour’s first major highlight. Upon arrival, a guided walking tour introduces you to its well-preserved medieval streets, including stops at the Jewish Baths (Mikveh) from the 12th century and the Medieval Bridge. The synagogue, dating from the 11th or 12th century, offers insight into the town’s Jewish heritage.

The free time here allows for exploring small shops or relaxing at a local café, soaking in the historic atmosphere. The compact size of Besalú makes it easy to appreciate its medieval charm without feeling rushed. This stop provides a perfect balance of guided insight and personal exploration.

Castellfollit de la Roca: A Town on a Basalt Cliff

On the way to Rupit, the tour passes Castellfollit de la Roca, a tiny village perched on a basalt cliff just 1,000 residents call home. Covering only 1,000 square meters, this town offers dramatic views from its perch on the precipice.

Though small, it’s a visually striking location that makes for excellent photo opportunities. Visitors can walk along the edge of the cliff and appreciate the town’s unique setting. The guide highlights the town’s history, adding context to its impressive position on the basalt rock.

Rupit: Cobblestone Streets and Historic Charm

Rupit is the next stop, with around two hours of free time to enjoy its 16th-century houses and hanging wooden bridge. The cobblestone streets are easily walkable, and the Baroque Church of Sant Miquel is a key site to visit for its architectural details.

Lunch is available at traditional restaurants (at your own expense), with options for hearty local cuisine. After eating, visitors can stroll through the town, visit the Castle ruins, or relax outdoors with a picnic on the rocky peak overlooking Rupit. The relaxed pace at Rupit makes it one of the tour’s highlights for lovers of history and scenic views.

Cingles de Tavertet: Cliffs and Panoramic Views

From Rupit, the tour proceeds to Cingles de Tavertet, a spectacular area with sandstone cliffs overlooking the Pantà de Sau lake. The drive offers glimpses of megalithic tombs and the ancient Iberian Wall. Once at Tavertet, a short walk leads to viewpoints where stunning vistas unfold.

The village of Tavertet itself has 48 well-preserved houses from the 16th and 17th centuries, and the 11th-century Romanesque Church of Sant Cristòfol adds to its historical appeal. Visitors can enjoy a scenic overlook or a brief coffee break (own expense). The landscape here is often praised for its scenic beauty, making it a favorite stop.

The Architectural and Religious Heritage of Tavertet

The Church of Sant Cristòfol in Tavertet is a notable Romanesque structure from the 11th century. Its architecture and historical significance make it worth a quick visit. The church’s simple yet historic facade reflects the village’s medieval roots, and guides often share stories about its construction and role over the centuries.

Walking through the village shows approximately 48 homes from the 16th and 17th centuries, giving a glimpse into historic rural life. The village’s quiet charm and stunning surroundings provide excellent photo opportunities.

Scenic Drive Back to Barcelona through Natural Parks

The return journey from Tavertet to Barcelona offers vistas of verdant forests like Magatalls and El Montseny, which is a UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve. The landscape remains lush as the vehicle passes through protected areas, giving a sense of the region’s natural beauty.

The tour concludes around 6:45 pm at the original departure point, with options to find a taxi or metro to local accommodations. The relaxed pace and scenic views make the entire day feel rewarding and well-balanced.

Practical Details and Tips for the Tour

The tour operates only in English and has a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience. The vehicle used is air-conditioned for comfort, and the guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills.

Participants should have moderate physical fitness to comfortably walk around the villages and scenic overlooks. Food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning lunch in Rupit is recommended. The tour starts at C/ Palau de la Música in Barcelona and ends at Arc de Triomf, making access straightforward.

Booking typically occurs 53 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. Flexible cancellation policies allow full refunds if canceled more than 24 hours before departure.

Medieval Towns and Countryside: Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for history enthusiasts, those interested in medieval architecture, and anyone seeking scenic landscapes beyond Barcelona. The small group size, combined with expert guides, ensures an engaging and relaxed experience. The mix of guided tours and free time at each village allows for both learning and leisure.

The tour’s pace suits travelers comfortable with walking and moderate outdoor activity. Food fans can enjoy lunch at their own expense in Rupit, which offers delicious local options. This trip offers a well-rounded experience of Catalonia’s history, architecture, and natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours 30 minutes, including travel time and sightseeing stops.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at C/ Palau de la Música in Barcelona at 8:30 am and concludes around 6:45 pm at the same departure point.

What are the main stops?
Stops include Besalú with its medieval synagogue, Castellfollit de la Roca, Rupit with its cobblestone streets and church, Cingles de Tavertet, and the village of Tavertet.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included. Lunch in Rupit is at your own expense, with various traditional restaurants available.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to cobblestone streets and scenic walks. Dress appropriately for the weather, especially if visiting scenic overlooks.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Moderate physical activity and walking are involved, so it is best suited for travelers with moderate fitness.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours before the start time.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to 20 travelers, making for a more personalized experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of small group guide-led exploration, scenic countryside drives, and visits to distinctive medieval villages ensures a comprehensive and memorable day outside Barcelona.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the air-conditioned vehicle provides a comfortable ride for the entire day.

Are there any hidden costs?
Aside from meals and personal expenses, there are no hidden charges included in the tour price.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking is recommended around 53 days in advance to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

This Medieval Three Villages Small Group Day Trip offers a genuine glimpse into Catalonia’s historic towns and stunning natural scenery, all with the guidance of expert storytellers and a relaxed pacing that makes it a highly recommended experience.