From Barcelona: Medieval Villages and Volcanic Hiking Tour

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping back in time to explore the charming streets of medieval villages while surrounded by dramatic volcanic landscapes, this tour from Barcelona might just be a great fit. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture for those who want a mix of culture, nature, and a bit of adventure—all in a comfortable, small-group setting.

What really catches our eye are the stunning views of Castellfollit de la Roca perched atop a cliff, and the chance to hike around the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park—a rare landscape shaped by volcanic activity. Plus, exploring well-preserved towns like Besalú, with its medieval charm, makes it a well-rounded day. That said, it’s not a tour for those seeking a relaxed, leisurely stroll with minimal walking; it involves active hiking and some travel time.

One consideration: the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to plan how to get to the meeting point in Passeig de Gràcia. Also, packing comfortable hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing is essential, especially if you plan to enjoy the outdoors. This experience appears best suited for travelers who love history combined with scenic nature walks and don’t mind a full day on the go.

If you’re curious about the highlights and practical details, keep reading. We’ll walk through what you can expect from start to finish, sharing insights based on reviews and available info to help you decide if this adventure fits your travel style.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personal and engaging tour.
• Diverse Itinerary: Combines medieval town visits with active hiking in volcanic landscapes.
• Expert Guides: Professional English-speaking guides who are knowledgeable about the area.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned minivan for the entire trip.
• Cost-Effective: At $142 per person, you get a full day packed with history, nature, and spectacular views.
• Physical Activity: Includes moderate hiking, so be prepared with suitable footwear and clothing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: What You Can Expect

Departure and Transport

The adventure begins with a 1.5-hour drive from Barcelona, leaving from Passeig de Gràcia, a central and accessible location. The transportation is in an air-conditioned minivan, which makes the trip comfortable, especially on warmer days or if you’re prone to travel fatigue. This setup is perfect for those who want a hassle-free transfer that allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic drive.

First Stop: Castellfollit de la Roca

The first highlight is the spectacular cliff-top town of Castellfollit de la Roca. Perched dramatically atop a basalt cliff, this village offers breathtaking views of the meeting point of the Fluvià and Toronell rivers. From reviews, it’s clear that this village is a crowd favorite, with visitors describing it as “the hanging town of Catalonia,” and noting its photo-worthy vistas.

You’ll take a guided walk here, soaking in the medieval charm, with cobbled streets and stone houses. The town’s unique location makes it a memorable stop, and many travelers mention how the views are truly mesmerizing and worth the visit.

Visit to Sant Joan les Fonts

Next, the tour moves on to Sant Joan les Fonts, which features a Romanesque church and a medieval bridge from the 12th century. This part of the trip offers a glimpse into the region’s history, set against a peaceful natural backdrop. Visitors often appreciate the authenticity of this spot, noting that it feels like stepping back in time.

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Hiking Around La Garrotxa

The core of the tour is the hiking in La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. The landscape here is shaped by lava flows, which create a unique terrain that’s both dramatic and lush. Expect to follow trails that pass across three different lava flows, with the chance to learn about the volcanic activity that formed this area.

Hiking here isn’t overly strenuous but does involve moderate walking with some elevation changes. Travelers who mention the experience describe it as “zen-like,” appreciating the peaceful natural surroundings and the landscape’s unusual beauty. The hike is guided, so you’ll gain insights into the geology and rural lifestyle of the region.

Lunch and Free Time in Besalú

After the outdoor activities, the tour heads to Besalú, acclaimed as the best-preserved medieval village in Catalonia. You’ll have free time to explore, enjoy lunch at a traditional local restaurant, or simply stroll through the historic streets. The guided visit of Besalú is a highlight, as you’ll see the medieval bridge, Jewish quarter, and charming stone buildings.

The reviews suggest that the guided tour in Besalú offers a more authentic feel, with knowledgeable guides showing you the town’s most notable sites. This part of the day provides an opportunity to slow down and soak up the medieval atmosphere.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $142 per person, this tour packs a lot into a nine-hour window. You’re paying for transportation, a guide, and access to several notable sites and scenic hikes. Considering the small group size, personalized experience, and diverse activities—from cultural sights to outdoor adventures—it’s quite a good value for travelers eager to combine nature and history.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

You get air-conditioned transport, a professional guide, a bottled water, and personal insurance. The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to meet at the designated starting point. Lunch isn’t included, but there are opportunities to eat in Besalú, and you might also want to bring snacks for the hike.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Day

• Pack hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. The terrain can be uneven, and weather changes are common in mountainous or volcanic regions.
• Bring snacks for the hike, especially if you’re hungry or want to keep your energy up between stops.
• Be prepared for some walking; the hike involves a moderate amount of activity.
• Check the starting times when booking, as they can vary.
• Remember, the tour is capped at just 8 participants, so it’s a more intimate experience—perfect if you prefer avoiding large crowds.

What Real Travelers Say

From reviews, one traveler mentioned, “Interesante. Agradables compañeros de grupo y un guía afable y buen conocedor de la zona,” highlighting the friendly group and knowledgeable guide as major positives. Others have praised the stunning views especially at Castellfollit de la Roca, and the feeling of stepping back in time during the guided walk in Besalú.

Despite the active nature of the tour, the overall feedback is very positive, with many describing it as a beautiful, well-organized day that balances outdoor adventure with cultural discovery.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who enjoy history, nature, and scenic landscapes. Perfect if you’re comfortable walking and want a full, immersive day exploring small villages and volcanic terrain. It’s also well-suited for travelers who appreciate guided tours that explore local stories and geology.

If you’re traveling with children or prefer a more relaxed pace, keep in mind the hiking component. This isn’t a casual sightseeing bus tour, but rather a more active and engaging day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my own water? Yes, a bottle of water is included, but it’s good to have your own for the hikes.

Is there hotel pickup available? No, the tour starts and ends at Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona, so plan your transportation accordingly.

How long is the drive from Barcelona? About 1.5 hours in a comfortable minivan.

What should I wear? Hiking shoes are recommended, along with clothing suitable for outdoor activities and weather conditions.

Is lunch included? No, lunch isn’t part of the package, but there are local restaurants in Besalú and options to bring snacks.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for families? It’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, but active travelers with children who enjoy outdoor activities may find it rewarding.

What languages are guides available in? Guides speak Spanish, Catalan, and English.

How many people will be in my group? The tour is limited to 8 participants, offering a more personalized experience.

What time does the tour start? Check availability for the specific start times, as they vary.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a day that combines stunning scenery, historic towns, and outdoor adventure, this tour from Barcelona offers a well-rounded experience. The small-group format means you’ll enjoy personalized attention, and the balance of cultural and natural highlights keeps things interesting.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—who crave a bit of physical activity and a chance to step into the past while surrounded by nature’s unique volcanic landscapes. Just be prepared for some walking, and plan to arrive ready for a full day of exploration.

This tour provides a genuine glimpse into Catalonia’s diverse landscape and history, making it a memorable part of your trip—especially if you love views that stay with you long after the day ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: