Besalú, Banyoles Lake & Volcanic Castellfollit from Girona

Exploring Girona and Beyond: A Day with Besalú, Banyoles Lake & Castellfollit

If you’re looking to explore some of the most captivating sights around Girona without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, a guided tour to Besalú, Banyoles Lake, and Castellfollit de la Roca might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve come across plenty of feedback and details that make it clear this is a well-rounded, scenic, and historically interesting experience.

What really appeals to me about this tour is how it combines stunning scenery with medieval architecture—a perfect mix for anyone who loves history, nature, or just a good dose of picturesque views. Plus, the fact that it’s a private experience means you’re likely to get a more personalized touch, with guides who are keen on making your day memorable.

One potential consideration is the price point, which is around $150 per person. For some, that might seem steep, but when you factor in the round-trip private transfer, snacks, bottled water, and the flexibility of a personalized tour, it can be quite good value—especially compared to trying to organize transport and visits independently.

This tour is ideal if you prefer a relaxed, guided day that covers highlights efficiently—perfect for travelers who appreciate storytelling, comfort, and a bit of local insight.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Visit three distinct locations—each with its own flavor and history—in a single day.
• Comfort and convenience: Includes hotel pickup, private transfer, and all taxes, making logistics worry-free.
• Guided insights: Knowledgeable guides add context and stories that bring each stop alive.
• Flexible and personalized: Being a private tour means you can focus on your interests and pace.
• Beautiful scenery and architecture: From volcanic cliffs to medieval bridges, the visuals are memorable.
• Good for those who like walking: Short walking tours are included at each stop, perfect for stretching your legs.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Can Gussinye – A Volcanic Cliffside Town

Your day begins at Can Gussinye, a charming town perched atop a volcanic cliff. Expect a quick 30-minute stop, which is more than enough to soak in the views and snap some photos of this unique location. It’s a quieter start, giving you a taste of the volcanic landscape that characterizes the area. The fact that admission is free is a bonus, allowing you to focus on the scenery rather than extra costs.

Stop 2: Puente de Besalú – Medieval Charm in Full Bloom

Next, you’ll head to Besalú, which is often described as a true fairytale village. You’ll spend about 2 hours exploring its cobbled streets, stone bridges, and medieval architecture. This is the highlight for many visitors, who often comment on its beautiful, well-preserved historic center. One review raves about the hosts, saying, “Una combinación de lugares espectaculares de la mano de Dani y Quim. Dos anfitriones de primera categoría.”

While there’s no entrance fee, the real value comes from wandering freely and absorbing the centuries of history. You’ll see the famous medieval bridge, important for its architecture and history, and stroll through streets lined with old buildings and charming cafes.

Stop 3: Estany de Banyoles – Serene Lake Walks

The final stop is Banyoles Lake, a peaceful spot to stretch your legs and enjoy nature. The hour-long walk along the calm waters is a highlight, especially if you’re into tranquil landscapes and lakeside scenery. The lake is often praised for its serenity and beauty, and it’s a nice way to wind down the day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers most practical needs—bottled water, snacks, private transport, and all taxes—so you don’t have to worry about extra costs during the day. The air-conditioned minivan ensures comfort, especially on warmer days. Hotel pickup and drop-off make it extra convenient, especially if you’re staying in Girona center.

However, the big omission is lunch, which you’ll need to arrange yourself. The tour’s duration of about 7 to 8 hours means you’ll have enough time for a meal, but planning ahead is wise. Packing a picnic or grabbing a bite in Besalú or Banyoles is a good idea.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the knowledgeable guides. Reviewers frequently mention how guides like Dani and Quim make the experience special through their storytelling and local insights. Their passion and expertise seem to turn a sightseeing day into a memorable journey.

The scenery also gets rave reviews. Freddy_l describes the experience as “Una experiencia maravillosa,” highlighting the stunning spots and the hosts’ quality. Travelers love the way each location offers photo-worthy views, historic charm, and a peaceful vibe.

The walks at each stop are generally manageable, making this suitable for most travelers who can comfortably walk for a bit. The private nature of the tour means you can tailor the experience to your interests, perhaps spending more time at a favorite spot or skipping something that doesn’t appeal.

Practical Details and Tips

• Since the tour starts at 9:30 am from Plaça de Catalunya in Girona, arriving a bit early ensures you’re ready on time.
• The minimum number of travelers is not specified, but the private nature hints at a small, intimate group.
• Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult, and any special dietary requirements should be communicated when booking.
• Be prepared for the walking portions—comfortable shoes are a must.
• Remember, lunch is not included, so plan accordingly. There are local options in Besalú and Banyoles if you want to grab a bite.
• Booking in advance is wise—average bookings are made about 117 days ahead—so it’s popular among travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits history buffs, scenery lovers, and anyone wanting a stress-free way to explore multiple sites in a day. It’s particularly good if you appreciate guided storytelling and comfortable logistics. If you prefer to visit a single site or are looking for a more adventurous, self-led trip, this might not be the best option.

People who enjoy gentle walks, picturesque villages, and lakeside views will find plenty to love. Since it’s a private tour, it’s also suitable for small groups or couples seeking a more customized experience.

The Sum Up

All in all, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of the Garrotxa region’s highlights—combining medieval architecture, volcanic landscapes, and peaceful lakes—without the hassle of planning. The private setting, knowledgeable guides, and scenic stops make it a solid choice for those looking to deepen their understanding of this part of Spain while enjoying a comfortable day out.

While the price might be a consideration, the convenience and quality of the experience, especially with personalized attention, make it worthwhile for many travelers. Whether you’re into history, nature, or just want a relaxing day with beautiful views, this trip checks plenty of boxes.

If you’re after a balanced, scenic, and informative tour that hits all the right notes, this one deserves a spot on your list.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are allowed but must be accompanied by an adult. The walking portions are manageable, but consider your kids’ comfort with walking and the schedule.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes private round-trip transfer, bottled water, snacks, all taxes and fees, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Lunch is not included, so you can plan to bring your own or buy locally.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am from Girona.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, providing some flexibility in case your plans change.

Is the tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Since it’s private, solo travelers will enjoy a personalized experience without the feeling of being in a large group.

What’s the best time to book?
Booking about 117 days in advance is typical, especially since the tour is popular among travelers who want a full day of sightseeing.

Are there any additional costs besides the tour price?
No, all taxes and fees are included, but you should budget for lunch and any personal purchases or optional extras during the stops.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and historically enriching day outside Girona, this tour hits the right notes. It offers a genuine taste of the region’s most photogenic spots, brought to life through engaging guides—making it a memorable addition to your Catalonian adventure.