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Hidden Villages of Catalonia — Curated Private Day Trip

Venture beyond the guidebooks and uncover Catalonia’s hidden gems. From medieval towns and volcanic landscapes to tranquil lakes and timeless villages, experience the authentic beauty and traditions of a region waiting to be discovered.

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An ornate white lakeside pavilion reflected in a calm inland-Catalonia lake ringed by hills
An ornate white lakeside pavilion reflected in a calm inland-Catalonia lake ringed by hillsBarcelona in Context · 1 / 3
Duration
9 h
Location
Catalunya
Includes
Official Guide of Catalonia (private, full day) · A route designed around your interests and the season

Escape the city and discover the authentic heart of Catalonia on a journey through some of its most charming and lesser-known destinations. This full-day excursion takes you beyond the usual tourist routes to explore historic towns, breathtaking landscapes and picturesque villages where centuries of history and local traditions remain wonderfully preserved.

Depending on the itinerary, your adventure may include the elegant city of Vic, renowned for its magnificent medieval centre and one of Catalonia’s most beautiful arcaded squares, Plaça Major. Wander through its charming streets while learning about the city’s Roman origins, medieval prosperity and rich gastronomic traditions, including its world-famous cured meats.

Continue to the enchanting village of Rupit, often considered one of Catalonia’s most beautiful medieval towns. Nestled among dramatic cliffs and forests, Rupit’s cobbled streets, stone houses, flower-filled balconies and iconic hanging bridge create the atmosphere of a living fairytale. As you stroll through this beautifully preserved village, your guide will reveal stories of rural life, local traditions and the fascinating history that shaped this remarkable mountain community.

The journey may also take you to the peaceful town of Banyoles, home to Catalonia’s largest natural lake. Surrounded by tree-lined promenades and charming historic streets, the lake has been a centre of human settlement since prehistoric times and gained international recognition as the rowing venue for the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games. Enjoy the tranquil scenery while discovering the natural and cultural importance of this unique landscape.

Throughout the day, you’ll travel through picturesque countryside, volcanic landscapes, forests and rolling hills, experiencing the diversity that makes Catalonia one of Spain’s most fascinating regions. Along the way, your guide will introduce you to local traditions, regional gastronomy, medieval history and the stories that make each destination unique.

There will also be time to browse local artisan shops, relax in charming cafés or enjoy traditional Catalan cuisine in one of the region’s welcoming villages.

Perfect for travellers seeking authentic experiences beyond the major tourist attractions, this excursion reveals a quieter, more intimate side of Catalonia—where medieval heritage, spectacular landscapes and timeless villages create unforgettable memories.

  • A private route to lesser-known villages, built around you
  • Clifftop Siurana in the Priorat wine country
  • Cobbled Rupit and the cliffs of the Collsacabra
  • Medieval churches, village squares and inland landscapes without the crowds

Questions, answered

Which villages will we visit?

That is decided together. Your Official Guide of Catalonia proposes a route to two or three villages — for example Rupit and Tavertet, or Siurana in the Priorat — chosen for the season, the light and your interests, then confirms it with you before the day. Because it is private, nothing is fixed in advance.

How is this different from the Empordà medieval villages trip?

The Empordà day focuses on the golden-stone medieval villages of the Baix Empordà near the coast. This trip heads inland to a curated, changeable selection of dramatic cliff and mountain villages such as Rupit, Siurana and Mura — a different landscape and a route built fresh around you.

How much driving and walking is involved?

Because the villages lie in different directions, a realistic day pairs places within one region to keep driving sensible — usually an hour or two each way. Walking is on cobbled village streets and gentle paths, and any longer trail is optional and agreed with you.

Is this suitable if we have been to Catalonia before?

Ideally, yes. The trip is designed for travellers who already know Barcelona and the headline sights and want the quieter, deeper Catalonia — small villages, local squares and landscapes that rarely appear on standard tours.

Request this tour

We reply personally, normally within one working day, with a clear proposal and price.

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