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

Exploring La Garrotxa and Medieval Villages: A Practical Review of the Small-Group Tour from Barcelona

If you’re eyeing a day trip out of Barcelona that combines natural beauty with a touch of history, this Medieval Villages & La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Hiking Tour might be just what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a very appealing picture.

What really stands out are the guided hikes through stunning volcanic landscapes and the chance to wander the streets of Besalú, one of Spain’s best-preserved medieval towns. Plus, the small-group format—capped at just eight travelers—promises a more personal and relaxed experience, away from the crowds.

That said, a key consideration is that this is a fairly active tour requiring moderate fitness, so it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a purely sightseeing, low-effort day. It’s best suited for those comfortable with hiking and outdoor activity, and who enjoy seeing nature and history without rushing.

If you’re after a day that mixes scenic outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and delicious local food, this trip could be a real winner. It’s especially appealing for curious travelers who value guided insights and a personalized touch.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Small group size means more attention from your guide and less time waiting around.
• Active day out: Expect roughly 3.5 hours of hiking through volcanic landscapes, so good walking shoes are essential.
• Rich landscape and history: The tour combines geological wonders with medieval architecture, making it a well-rounded adventure.
• Local flavors: After your hike, you get to enjoy a traditional 3-course meal, giving you a taste of regional cuisine.
• Weather considerations: The tour runs rain or shine—so dress accordingly, especially in winter when it can get colder.
• Ideal for outdoorsy travelers: Those with a moderate fitness level will find this manageable and rewarding.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Getting There and Starting Point

The tour begins bright and early at 8:30am, meeting at Pg. de Gràcia, 26, L’Eixample. The drive in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan takes about an hour and a half, which isn’t too bad considering the scenery you’ll encounter once you arrive.

This setup is convenient because it takes care of transportation logistics, letting you relax and focus on the views. The departure time also means you avoid the worst of the midday heat or crowds, giving you a more peaceful start.

The Hiking in La Garrotxa

Once you reach the volcanic zone, the real fun begins. The hike kicks off through the Fageda d’en Jordà, a beech forest that seems almost magical, especially in autumn when the leaves turn fiery shades. This forest grows on a lava flow from Croscat volcano, which makes it a uniquely beautiful setting.

According to reviews, the walk is easy and moderate-paced, making it suitable even for those who aren’t seasoned hikers. One reviewer, Susan, mentioned enjoying a “nice hike around the volcano park,” with stops for cheese and sausage snacks—so don’t forget to pack some snacks if that’s your thing.

Next, you’ll explore the Santa Margarida volcano, which features a wide, circular crater with a Romanesque church at its center. It’s a striking sight that combines natural beauty with historical intrigue.

The highlight for many is the Croscat volcano, the highest volcanic cone in Iberia at 160 meters. This area has an impressive scar from quarrying, reminding visitors of the volcano’s active past and the region’s geological importance.

Benefits of the Guided Hike

The guide, Ramon, and others have been praised for their knowledge and personable approach. Rachel mentions how Ramon kept the conversation engaging and shared insightful historical and natural context, enriching the experience. This personal attention helps make the hike more meaningful, especially when you’re immersed in the landscape.

Lunch and Regional Flavors

After your outdoor pursuits, you’ll head to a local restaurant for a three-course traditional meal. While lunch isn’t included in the price, the tour’s organizers make it easy to enjoy regional flavors without the hassle of finding a place on your own.

Exploring Castellfollit de la Roca and Besalú

Post-lunch, the tour continues to Castellfollit de la Roca, a town perched dramatically atop a basalt crag. The views from this village are simply stunning, with the river Fluvià carving its way through the dark volcanic rock.

Your final stop is Besalú, a well-preserved medieval town. Wandering its authentic streets feels like stepping back in time, with cobblestone lanes, ancient bridges, and historic buildings. The guided visit provides rich stories behind the sights, while free time allows you to soak up the atmosphere at your own pace.

Transportation and Group Size

The small-group format (max 8 people) is a real plus, as it makes the day more intimate and flexible. The ride back to Barcelona is straightforward, with no need to worry about transport logistics. The tour ends back at the starting point, so it’s easy to plan your evening afterward.

What’s the Value Like?

At $148.35 per person, this tour offers a lot for outdoor lovers and history buffs. The combination of guided hikes, cultural visits, and a traditional meal makes it a well-rounded package.

Reviews consistently praise the value for money, especially considering the personalized guides and diverse experiences. You’re not just paying for transportation—you’re gaining a meaningful day exploring one of Catalonia’s most intriguing landscapes, with stories and sights you might not discover on your own.

Final thoughts on the price

While it sounds slightly on the higher side compared to some bus tours, the small-group size, expert guiding, and quality of sites visited justifies the cost. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and the convenience of door-to-door transportation add to the overall value.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy hiking, nature, and history, and who appreciate guided insights. It’s perfect if you want to escape the city without sacrificing comfort or organization. Those interested in geology, medieval towns, and scenic landscapes will find plenty to love here.

It’s less ideal if you’re looking for a very relaxed day or have mobility issues, as the tour involves several hours of walking on uneven terrain. Also, travelers comfortable with a moderate physical challenge will get the most out of it.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the moderate hiking and engaging stops could be enjoyable for older children or teens who like outdoor activities. Keep in mind the physical demands.

What should I wear for the hike?
Comfortable, sturdy shoes like hiking or sport shoes are recommended. Dress in layers, especially if visiting in winter when La Garrotxa can be cooler than Barcelona.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but the tour includes a visit to a traditional local restaurant where you can enjoy a three-course meal after hiking.

How many people will be on the tour?
The maximum group size is eight, ensuring plenty of personalized attention from your guide.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, including transportation, hiking, lunch, and sightseeing.

Is the tour available rain or shine?
Yes, it runs regardless of weather, so dress appropriately for rain or cold.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Pg. de Gràcia, 26, L’Eixample, Barcelona.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 51 days in advance, as it’s popular and limited to small groups.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this small-group hike and cultural tour offers a thoughtful way to spend a day outside Barcelona. You’ll get to experience the volcanic landscape, explore medieval towns, and enjoy regional cuisine—all with a friendly guide to enrich the journey. It’s a great pick if you’re seeking an active, scenic, and culturally rich outing, especially if you value personalized service and small groups.

Whether you’re a geology nerd, history enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates a good walk with beautiful views, this trip likely has something special for you. Just remember to bring your walking shoes, dress for the weather, and get ready for a memorable day in Catalonia.