Medieval Villages & La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Hiking. Small Group Tour

Exploring Catalonia’s Hidden Gems: Medieval Villages & La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Hiking

If you’re searching for a day that combines scenic nature, medieval charm, and authentic Catalan culture, this small-group tour from Barcelona hits the mark. For around $148, you’ll spend roughly nine hours exploring La Garrotxa’s volcanic landscape, wandering through Besalú’s preserved medieval streets, and marveling at Castellfollit de la Roca’s basalt cliffs. Led by knowledgeable local guides like Ramon, this experience is designed to give you a taste of Catalonia’s geological wonders and historic towns without feeling rushed or crowded.

Two things we particularly appreciated: first, the personalized small-group size—limiting groups to just eight travelers—means plenty of time for questions and a more intimate connection with each site. Second, the diverse itinerary offers a perfect blend of outdoor activity, cultural discovery, and local cuisine, making it suitable for active travelers who want more than just sightseeing.

One possible consideration is the weather—since this tour is rain or shine, packing appropriate gear is essential, especially in winter when La Garrotxa can get chilly. Also, the trip involves a moderate hike of about 3.5 hours, so it’s best suited for those with a decent level of physical fitness.

If you enjoy nature, history, and delicious local food, and want a trip that’s both enriching and manageable in a single day, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s ideal for curious travelers eager to connect with the landscape and history of Catalonia away from the crowds.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.
• Diverse itinerary offers hiking, exploring medieval towns, and tasting local cuisine.
• Expert guides like Ramon enrich your understanding with historical and cultural insights.
• Stunning scenery includes volcanic landscapes, beech forests, and basalt cliffs.
• Active experience requires moderate physical fitness but rewards with memorable views.
• Convenient logistics with round-trip transportation from Barcelona saves time and hassle.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting the Day: Comfortable Transportation and a Scenic Drive

We begin early, meeting at a central spot in Barcelona—Pg. de Gràcia—promptly at 8:30 am. From there, a cozy, air-conditioned minivan whisks us out of the city and into the heart of La Garrotxa, a region famed for its volcanic formations and lush forests. The roughly 90-minute drive is a good chance to settle in, chat with fellow travelers, and get a first glimpse of the Catalan countryside, which looks surprisingly untouched and wild compared to bustling Barcelona.

Hiking Through La Garrotxa’s Unique Volcanoes

Once we arrive, the real fun begins. We lace up our hiking shoes and explore the Fageda d’En Jordà, a magical beech forest growing at a surprisingly low altitude on ancient lava flows. This part of the hike is often described as peaceful and enchanting, especially if you visit in autumn when the leaves turn fiery shades, as one reviewer noted.

Following that, we head into the volcanic area, starting with Santa Margarida, a volcano with a circular crater that hosts a Romanesque church in its center—an evocative site blending nature and history. Our guide explains the volcanic activity that shaped the landscape, making the walk not just scenic but educational.

Next, we traverse the Croscat volcano, the tallest in the Iberian Peninsula at 160 meters. Its impressive scar from quarrying also reminds us of how landscapes are shaped by human activity. The hike totals about 3.5 hours, and while the terrain varies, it remains accessible for most hikers. We loved the way Ramon kept the pace moderate, making it enjoyable without feeling rushed.

Authentic Catalan Cuisine: A Well-Deserved Lunch

After the hike, we return to our van and head to a traditional local restaurant. The included 3-course meal, which may feature regional specialties, provides a perfect opportunity to relax, swap stories, and enjoy the flavors of Catalonia. Reviewers have praised the food, describing it as delicious and authentic, which adds tremendous value to the tour experience.

Exploring Castellfollit de la Roca: A Town on a Basalt Cliff

Post-lunch, we visit Castellfollit de la Roca, a striking village perched atop a basalt cliff formed by lava flows. Walking through its narrow streets, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The town offers stunning views over the narrow river gorge, and the basalt formations are an impressive sight—literally, a town built on volcanic rock.

The Medieval Charm of Besalú

Our final stop is Besalú, considered one of Spain’s best-preserved medieval towns. Its fortified bridges, cobblestone streets, and historic buildings evoke a sense of stepping into the Middle Ages. A guided walk helps you appreciate the town’s history and architecture, and you’ll have some free time to wander, shop, or enjoy a coffee.

Comfort and Logistics

Transportation is smooth and comfortable, with round-trip service from Barcelona, which saves you hours of planning. The small group size ensures you’re not overwhelmed, and your guide’s knowledge and friendly manner make the day both informative and enjoyable. Since tips are optional and not included, you can decide how much to reward your guide for a day well spent.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $148, this tour packs in a lot: hiking, cultural exploration, delicious food, and private guiding. The inclusion of transportation, water, hiking poles, and insurance means fewer extra costs and a hassle-free experience. Given that the tour is limited to just eight people, you get plenty of personal attention, which many travelers value highly.

The diverse activities—from forest walks and volcano visits to medieval town wandering—are structured to keep the day lively without overloading. Plus, the expert guide makes the history and geology come alive, transforming what might seem just a walk into a meaningful journey.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits active travelers with a moderate fitness level who enjoy outdoor adventures. It’s perfect if you’re curious about geology, history, and local culture, and want to experience Catalonia beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate small-group intimacy and personalized attention, or who love authentic regional food.

If you’re visiting Barcelona and want a day that combines nature, history, and gastronomy, this tour offers a balanced and memorable way to explore Catalonia’s volcanic landscape and medieval towns—all in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the hike is described as easy to moderate, and the group size allows for a flexible pace. However, some walking and standing are involved, so a reasonable level of physical fitness is recommended.

What should I wear?
Comfortable hiking or sport shoes are essential. Dress in weather-appropriate clothes, especially in winter when La Garrotxa can be cooler than Barcelona. Bringing a light rain jacket might be wise, given this is a rain or shine tour.

Is lunch included?
No, but the tour makes arrangements for a traditional local restaurant where you can enjoy a three-course meal after the hike. Travelers also often bring snacks, which are recommended for energy during the walk.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of eight participants, ensuring an intimate experience and plenty of interaction with your guide.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Expect a scenic hike through volcanic forests, visits to iconic volcanoes like Santa Margarida and Croscat, exploring picturesque towns like Castellfollit de la Roca, and a guided tour of the medieval town of Besalú.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Barcelona in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan is part of the package.

Are tips included?
No, tips are optional and at your discretion.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute changes.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
Spring and autumn are ideal for the foliage and milder weather, but the tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This small-group hiking adventure offers a well-rounded glimpse into Catalonia’s volcanic landscapes and medieval towns. With expert guides, authentic food, and carefully chosen stops, it provides a meaningful escape from the city that’s both educational and fun.

It’s a perfect choice if you value personalized experiences, enjoy moderate physical activity, and want to see a side of Catalonia that’s often overlooked by mainstream travelers. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast, history buff, or nature lover, this tour delivers a memorable day full of scenic beauty and cultural discovery.

For those willing to embrace a day of moderate hiking, engaging storytelling, and authentic regional flavors, this tour will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the diverse tapestry of Catalonia.