Barcelona: Private Tour Besalú – Girona and “Diamond Head” of Catalonia

Experience the Charm of Catalonia with the Private Tour to Besalú, Girona, and “Diamond Head”

This full-day private tour from Barcelona offers a rewarding peek into Catalonia’s history, natural beauty, and medieval charm for around $329 per person. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit the enchanting medieval village of Besalú, take a scenic hike around the Santa Margarida Volcano in Garrotxa, and stroll through the vibrant old town of Girona, including its iconic cathedral. With a duration of roughly 10 hours, this tour packs in a lot—perfect for travelers eager to see beyond Barcelona’s city sights.

What we love most about this experience is the balance of cultural exploration and outdoor activity. The walk across Besalú’s Old Bridge is both scenic and historic, offering a sense of stepping back in time. The hike on the volcano is surprisingly accessible and offers a unique chance to walk inside a volcano’s crater, while the visit to Girona’s old town immerses you in medieval architecture and vibrant street life.

One consideration is that the day is quite packed, so if you’re a slow walker or prefer leisurely pacing, you might find the schedule a bit tight. Also, since food isn’t included, you’ll want to budget extra time and money for a Catalan-style meal. This trip suits travelers who appreciate a mix of history, nature, and authentic towns, and who enjoy a well-organized, small-group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic medieval sights: Discover Besalú’s Old Bridge and Jewish quarter, stepping into a world of cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture.
• Scenic outdoor activity: Hike inside the crater of Santa Margarida Volcano, a unique volcanic landscape with ancient hermitage.
• Cultural immersion: Explore Girona’s old town, walk along its city walls, and admire the impressive Gothic cathedral.
• Value-packed experience: Private, small-group tour with guided commentary, entrance to Girona Cathedral included.
• Flexibility and convenience: Pickup and drop-off included, with the option to reserve and pay later for flexibility.
• Active pace: Expect a 1-hour, 3 km hike with gentle elevation; good walking shoes recommended.

Discovering Catalonia: A Deep Dive into the Day Trip

Starting Off: From Barcelona to Besalú

The day begins with a pickup at your hotel or designated meeting point. The vehicle is adapted to your group size—up to 15 participants—making for an intimate, relaxed experience. The drive out of Barcelona quickly transports you into the heart of Catalonia’s lush countryside, with your guide sharing stories about the region’s history and landscape.

Your first stop is Besalú, a town that looks as if it’s been plucked straight from a storybook. The highlight here is the Old Bridge (Pont Vell), believed to have been built in the 11th century. Crossing it, you’ll get a sense of medieval engineering and the strategic importance of Besalú in bygone times.

Exploring Besalú’s Medieval Heart

Walking through Besalú’s narrow streets feels like stepping into a different era. Our guide, who was particularly enthusiastic, pointed out the churches of Sant Pere, Santa Maria, and Sant Vicenç, each displaying Romanesque and Gothic features. The combination of architectural styles reveals the town’s layered history.

A highlight is visiting the Jewish quarter, where the guide explained Hebrew rituals and customs that once thrived here. The preserved medieval Jewish quarter offers a glimpse into a once vibrant community, which today adds depth and texture to the town’s story. Several travelers noted that the guide’s explanations made the visit more meaningful, especially for those interested in the history of different cultures in Spain.

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Hiking the Santa Margarida Volcano

Next, your adventure takes you into the Garrotxa Natural Park, renowned for its volcanic landscape and forests. The star of this section is the Santa Margarida Volcano, sometimes called the “Diamond Head” of Catalonia for its distinctive shape.

The hike is about 3 km long, lasting around an hour, with a gentle 150-meter elevation change—perfect for most fitness levels. You’ll walk through beech and oak forests, with plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the scenery. Inside the crater, you’ll find a Romanesque hermitage, which adds an element of quiet spirituality to the landscape.

Many reviews praise the hike for being surprisingly easy and enjoyable, emphasizing the spectacular views inside the crater and the peaceful environment. Some mention that the location feels isolated enough to truly disconnect from city life, making it a refreshing outdoor segment of the tour.

Tasting Catalan Hospitality

After hiking, the tour pauses at a typical Catalan farmhouse. Here, you can relax and enjoy a lunch break—though food is not included in the fee, the guide will recommend local dishes and possibly arrange for a traditional meal. The farmhouse setting provides a cozy atmosphere, and many travelers appreciate the chance to experience local hospitality.

The Charm of Girona

On the return trip, the tour makes a pit stop in Girona, a city that’s gained fame as a filming location for Game of Thrones and as a hub of Catalan culture. Our guide pointed out the Stone Bridge (Pont de Pedra), offering panoramic views of the Onyar River and its colorful houses—a scene often captured in travel photos.

Walking through the Barri Vell (Old Town), you’ll encounter cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and lively shops. The highlight here is the cathedral, known for its impressive Gothic nave—the widest in the world. The cathedral’s architecture alone makes it worth the visit, but the vibrant streets surrounding it add to the lively, authentic atmosphere.

Many travelers appreciated walking along the city walls, which provide spectacular vistas of Girona and the surrounding countryside. The walls are accessible from various points, offering a short but rewarding panoramic walk to end your day.

Returning to Barcelona

After a full day of exploring, your guide will escort you back to Barcelona, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s adventures. The comfort of private transportation means you won’t have to worry about navigating public transit or rushing to catch buses, which many reviews find adds to the tour’s value.

Analyzing the Value and Practicalities

This tour, priced at $329 per person, includes pickup and drop-off, a guided driver, entrance tickets to Girona Cathedral, and a small group of up to 15 people. The private nature means a more personalized experience, with the guide tailoring explanations to your interests.

While lunch and snacks are not included, the tour’s design encourages you to enjoy local cuisine at your own pace—something many travelers see as a plus, offering flexibility and the chance to try authentic Catalan dishes without being tied to a set menu.

The 10-hour duration can make for a long but fulfilling day, especially if you enjoy a mix of outdoor activity and cultural sightseeing. The small group size ensures plenty of opportunities for questions, photo stops, and personal interactions, which many find enhances their experience.

Potential Drawbacks

Given the tight schedule, those who prefer a more relaxed pace or longer stays at each site might find the day a little rushed. Also, weather can impact parts of the trip, especially the outdoor hiking segment—so checking the forecast and dressing appropriately is wise.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who like combining cultural history with outdoor scenery, enjoy guided tours but prefer a smaller, more intimate group, and are comfortable with a full day of activity. It’s particularly appealing for those interested in medieval towns, volcanic landscapes, and scenic city views, all packed into one streamlined itinerary.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers excellent value for travelers seeking a well-rounded day trip out of Barcelona. It balances history, nature, and local culture, all with the convenience of private transportation and a knowledgeable guide. The stops at Besalú and Girona provide authentic medieval charm, while the hike inside the Santa Margarida Volcano is a memorable outdoor experience that most visitors wouldn’t find on their own.

If you’re eager to see more of Catalonia’s contrasting landscapes and historic towns without the hassle of planning multiple trips, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who appreciate storytelling, scenic walks, and a touch of adventure—all in a manageable, small-group setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is designed for adults, children with good walking stamina and interest in history and nature will enjoy it. The hike inside the volcano is moderate, and the outdoor segments are family-friendly, but check your child’s comfort with walking and outdoor activity.

What should I bring for the hike?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses, and a camera are recommended. The terrain is gentle, but good shoes will make the hike more enjoyable.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but a stop at a Catalan farmhouse allows you to purchase local food and relax before continuing the tour.

How long is the walking in Girona?
The walking through Girona’s old town and along the city walls is leisurely, but prepare for some cobblestone streets and gentle inclines.

What languages does the tour guide speak?
The live guide can speak Arabic, Spanish, English, Portuguese, French, Italian, and German—just specify your preferred language when booking.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

This private tour from Barcelona offers a thoughtfully curated glimpse into Catalonia’s medieval charm and natural beauty. Perfect for those who want to see beyond the city and experience authentic sights with expert guidance—making memories that go well beyond postcards.

You can check availability for your dates here: