Our most recommended things to do in Santa Pau

Barcelona: Besalú & Medieval Towns Tour with Hotel Pickup

Barcelona: Besalú & Medieval Towns Tour with Hotel Pickup

Step back in time and explore the medieval gems of Catalonia on this small group tour from Barcelona. With a maximum of 8 people, this journey allows you to discover the rich history, architecture, and charm of Catalonia’s medieval towns. Your expert guide will lead you through the most fascinating historical sites, sharing fascinating stories and insights along the way. The tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel from Barcelona before heading to the charming town of Vic, one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Catalonia. Explore its stunning cathedral and pass-by its ancient Roman temple, with your guide revealing the town’s secrets and historical significance. From Vic, continue your journey through the volcanic landscape of La Garrotxa, an area rich in natural beauty, before arriving in Santa Pau, one of Catalonia's most charming medieval towns. Take a leisurely walk through its cobbled streets, passing through the picturesque main square and feeling like you've stepped into a bygone era. Next, you’ll marvel at Castellfollit de la Roca, a dramatic medieval village that sits atop a cliff, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Snap photos of this unique village, perched precariously on the edge of a volcanic rock formation. The highlight of your tour is the town of Besalú, home to some of the best-preserved medieval architecture in Catalonia. Your guide will lead you through the fascinating history of Besalú, focusing on the influential Jewish community that once thrived here. Walk across the iconic Romanesque bridge of Besalú, one of the most recognized symbols of medieval Catalonia, and marvel at its architectural beauty. This medieval Catalonia tour offers an unforgettable journey through the region's rich history, stunning architecture, and charming towns. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of medieval architecture, or simply looking to explore the hidden treasures of Catalonia, this tour will provide you with an authentic and enriching experience.

Girona: Volcano Area, Besalú, and Banyoles Lake Tour

Girona: Volcano Area, Besalú, and Banyoles Lake Tour

If you are nature lovers and you like to discover new areas, this is the best option for you! On this full-day tour you will explore different areas. The first area you will explore is Besalú, where you will learn about the history and the medieval and Jewish heritage of the town.  Next explore the nature of La Garrotxa Natural Park, in the pre-Pyrenees area with more than 40 volcanoes none of them active for thousands of years. While there visit a medieval hermitage located in the middle of a crater. After, visit Castellfollit de la Roca to take some photos of the Basaltic cliff and Santa Pau a small village surrounded by volcanoes. To finish this amazing day, you will have the opportunity to walk along the shore or sail on Banyoles Lake, the largest lake in Catalonia.

La Garrotxa Volcanoes Half-Day Hot Air Balloon Flight

La Garrotxa Volcanoes Half-Day Hot Air Balloon Flight

Glide with the breeze over the Natural Park of La Garrotxa, located between the Pyrenees and Costa Brava, and discover from the sky how the volcanoes of Catalonia are a paradise for nature lovers. The half-day tour lasts approximately 5 hours, with about 1.5 hours flying time, and baskets for those with reduced mobility are available, including 3-door baskets that are suitable for the elderly. See how the landscape was shaped by volcanic activity in a way that is simply not possible from the ground. You will cruise over charming valleys, thick oak forests, and tiny villages settled on the top of towering cliffs. Experience the silence that only a hot air balloon ride can offer, with 360-degree views all around you. Sip a glass of Cava and enjoy a local pancake as the breeze and your pilot navigate the route, subject to the whims of Mother Nature! The balloon is constantly monitored by a 4WD car that will be ready to pick you up on landing. Then, it’s back to the launch facilities, where you will celebrate your balloon experience with a typical country breakfast of pa amb tomàquet (bread and tomato), cold cured sausage and beans from Santa Pau, roasted sausage, Catalan wine, and a glass of the local ratafia liquor.

From Barcelona: Private Besalú and Medieval Towns Tour

From Barcelona: Private Besalú and Medieval Towns Tour

Start your private full-day tour from Barcelona, where your expert guide will pick you up from your hotel in a comfortable private van. Enjoy a personalized, convenient journey through some of Catalonia’s most beautiful medieval towns, perfect for history lovers and architecture enthusiasts. Your tour begins with a scenic drive through Barcelona's top highlights. Visit Plaça Catalunya, the city’s central square, and admire the elegant Passeig de Gràcia. After exploring the city’s modernist street, head to Vic, a historic town that offers a captivating glimpse into medieval Catalonia. Explore the town’s beautiful Episcopal Museum, Cathedral, and Main Square, where a popular weekly market takes place. Your guide will lead you through the town’s medieval heritage, showcasing landmarks like the Roman Temple and the stunning Josep Maria Sert paintings in the Cathedral. Next, journey through the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone, where you’ll witness dramatic landscapes and volcanic geological formations. Arrive at Santa Pau, a charming medieval village nestled among stunning natural beauty. Wander through its winding streets and historic main square, and learn about its importance in Catalonia’s medieval history. Continue your journey with a stop overlooking to Castellfollit de la Roca, an incredible medieval town perched on a basalt cliff, offering spectacular views and the perfect opportunity for photos. The tour concludes with a visit to Besalú, one of Catalonia's most well-preserved medieval towns. Recognized as a Historical and Artistic National Monument, Besalú is rich in history, particularly the legacy of the Jewish community that lived here from the 9th to the 15th century. Explore the iconic Romanesque bridge and discover the town’s stunning medieval architecture. Your guide will share the history behind Besalú’s heritage, including fascinating tales of the Jewish Quarter and its lasting impact on the town’s identity. This private tour offers a deep dive into Catalonia’s medieval heritage, showcasing Vic, Santa Pau, Castellfollit de la Roca, and Besalú—a perfect way to explore Catalonia’s historical towns, enjoy traditional Catalan food, and marvel at the region's stunning architecture and natural beauty. Book your tour today for a comprehensive, unforgettable experience of Catalonia's medieval charm.

Balloon flight in la Garrotxa with transfer from Barcelona

Balloon flight in la Garrotxa with transfer from Barcelona

We pick you up at a point in the center of Barcelona between 5am and 6am, depending on the season. The journey from Barcelona to Vol de Coloms takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Once we arrive at Vol de Coloms facilities, we invite you to a coffee and pastries while you watch the preparation of the balloon. All our baskets have a door, so they are accessible to all kinds of people. The wind sets the course of our journey which lasts between 1h and 1h 30 minutes. During the flight, we toast with rosé cava and taste the coca de llardons d'Olot (a delicious local cake), while contemplating the landscape from a bird's eye view. A 360º panoramic of La Garrotxa and its volcanoes. When we have landed, the ground team, which has been following us all the way, picks us up in a 4×4 and we go together to have a good hearty cooked breakfast of bread with tomato and sausage, beans from Santa Pau with sausage, drinks, desserts from Cooperativa la Fageda, coffees and ratafia tasting. To end the adventure we give you the flight diploma signed by the pilot. A perfect way to enjoy a different morning by taking a hot air balloon in Catalonia and not worrying about anything. When the whole experience is over, we will take you back to Barcelona to drop you off at the same point where we picked you up in the morning. The return journey usually takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

From Barcelona: Osona and La Garrotxa Guided Day Trip

From Barcelona: Osona and La Garrotxa Guided Day Trip

Travel in time to witness a different side of Catalonia, filled with medieval landmarks, villages, and food. Visit the well-conserved towns of Vic in Osona, Santa Pau, Besalú, as well as the forests of La Fageda. Start your tour at Vic's sites, where a temple from Roman times, the medieval city walls, and its romanesque cathedral await. Next, visit La Garrotxa, where the landscape is still visibly shaped by its volcanic past. Your next stop is Santa Pau, to explore the medieval city walls and the Santa Maria Church, as well as the town's main square. Pick one of the delicious rustic dishes in one of the guest houses along the way for lunch break. Finish your tour in Besalú, world-famous for its 14th-century bridge that was featured in the TV show Westworld. Visit some of the romanesque landmarks like Saint Peter's or Saint Vincent Monastery. Make the most of your stop and explore local products like salami, cheese, honey, and churros.

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Our most recommended things to do in Santa Pau

Barcelona: Besalú & Medieval Towns Tour with Hotel Pickup

Barcelona: Besalú & Medieval Towns Tour with Hotel Pickup

Step back in time and explore the medieval gems of Catalonia on this small group tour from Barcelona. With a maximum of 8 people, this journey allows you to discover the rich history, architecture, and charm of Catalonia’s medieval towns. Your expert guide will lead you through the most fascinating historical sites, sharing fascinating stories and insights along the way. The tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel from Barcelona before heading to the charming town of Vic, one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Catalonia. Explore its stunning cathedral and pass-by its ancient Roman temple, with your guide revealing the town’s secrets and historical significance. From Vic, continue your journey through the volcanic landscape of La Garrotxa, an area rich in natural beauty, before arriving in Santa Pau, one of Catalonia's most charming medieval towns. Take a leisurely walk through its cobbled streets, passing through the picturesque main square and feeling like you've stepped into a bygone era. Next, you’ll marvel at Castellfollit de la Roca, a dramatic medieval village that sits atop a cliff, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Snap photos of this unique village, perched precariously on the edge of a volcanic rock formation. The highlight of your tour is the town of Besalú, home to some of the best-preserved medieval architecture in Catalonia. Your guide will lead you through the fascinating history of Besalú, focusing on the influential Jewish community that once thrived here. Walk across the iconic Romanesque bridge of Besalú, one of the most recognized symbols of medieval Catalonia, and marvel at its architectural beauty. This medieval Catalonia tour offers an unforgettable journey through the region's rich history, stunning architecture, and charming towns. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of medieval architecture, or simply looking to explore the hidden treasures of Catalonia, this tour will provide you with an authentic and enriching experience.

Girona: Volcano Area, Besalú, and Banyoles Lake Tour

Girona: Volcano Area, Besalú, and Banyoles Lake Tour

If you are nature lovers and you like to discover new areas, this is the best option for you! On this full-day tour you will explore different areas. The first area you will explore is Besalú, where you will learn about the history and the medieval and Jewish heritage of the town.  Next explore the nature of La Garrotxa Natural Park, in the pre-Pyrenees area with more than 40 volcanoes none of them active for thousands of years. While there visit a medieval hermitage located in the middle of a crater. After, visit Castellfollit de la Roca to take some photos of the Basaltic cliff and Santa Pau a small village surrounded by volcanoes. To finish this amazing day, you will have the opportunity to walk along the shore or sail on Banyoles Lake, the largest lake in Catalonia.

La Garrotxa Volcanoes Half-Day Hot Air Balloon Flight

La Garrotxa Volcanoes Half-Day Hot Air Balloon Flight

Glide with the breeze over the Natural Park of La Garrotxa, located between the Pyrenees and Costa Brava, and discover from the sky how the volcanoes of Catalonia are a paradise for nature lovers. The half-day tour lasts approximately 5 hours, with about 1.5 hours flying time, and baskets for those with reduced mobility are available, including 3-door baskets that are suitable for the elderly. See how the landscape was shaped by volcanic activity in a way that is simply not possible from the ground. You will cruise over charming valleys, thick oak forests, and tiny villages settled on the top of towering cliffs. Experience the silence that only a hot air balloon ride can offer, with 360-degree views all around you. Sip a glass of Cava and enjoy a local pancake as the breeze and your pilot navigate the route, subject to the whims of Mother Nature! The balloon is constantly monitored by a 4WD car that will be ready to pick you up on landing. Then, it’s back to the launch facilities, where you will celebrate your balloon experience with a typical country breakfast of pa amb tomàquet (bread and tomato), cold cured sausage and beans from Santa Pau, roasted sausage, Catalan wine, and a glass of the local ratafia liquor.

From Barcelona: Private Besalú and Medieval Towns Tour

From Barcelona: Private Besalú and Medieval Towns Tour

Start your private full-day tour from Barcelona, where your expert guide will pick you up from your hotel in a comfortable private van. Enjoy a personalized, convenient journey through some of Catalonia’s most beautiful medieval towns, perfect for history lovers and architecture enthusiasts. Your tour begins with a scenic drive through Barcelona's top highlights. Visit Plaça Catalunya, the city’s central square, and admire the elegant Passeig de Gràcia. After exploring the city’s modernist street, head to Vic, a historic town that offers a captivating glimpse into medieval Catalonia. Explore the town’s beautiful Episcopal Museum, Cathedral, and Main Square, where a popular weekly market takes place. Your guide will lead you through the town’s medieval heritage, showcasing landmarks like the Roman Temple and the stunning Josep Maria Sert paintings in the Cathedral. Next, journey through the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone, where you’ll witness dramatic landscapes and volcanic geological formations. Arrive at Santa Pau, a charming medieval village nestled among stunning natural beauty. Wander through its winding streets and historic main square, and learn about its importance in Catalonia’s medieval history. Continue your journey with a stop overlooking to Castellfollit de la Roca, an incredible medieval town perched on a basalt cliff, offering spectacular views and the perfect opportunity for photos. The tour concludes with a visit to Besalú, one of Catalonia's most well-preserved medieval towns. Recognized as a Historical and Artistic National Monument, Besalú is rich in history, particularly the legacy of the Jewish community that lived here from the 9th to the 15th century. Explore the iconic Romanesque bridge and discover the town’s stunning medieval architecture. Your guide will share the history behind Besalú’s heritage, including fascinating tales of the Jewish Quarter and its lasting impact on the town’s identity. This private tour offers a deep dive into Catalonia’s medieval heritage, showcasing Vic, Santa Pau, Castellfollit de la Roca, and Besalú—a perfect way to explore Catalonia’s historical towns, enjoy traditional Catalan food, and marvel at the region's stunning architecture and natural beauty. Book your tour today for a comprehensive, unforgettable experience of Catalonia's medieval charm.

Balloon flight in la Garrotxa with transfer from Barcelona

Balloon flight in la Garrotxa with transfer from Barcelona

We pick you up at a point in the center of Barcelona between 5am and 6am, depending on the season. The journey from Barcelona to Vol de Coloms takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Once we arrive at Vol de Coloms facilities, we invite you to a coffee and pastries while you watch the preparation of the balloon. All our baskets have a door, so they are accessible to all kinds of people. The wind sets the course of our journey which lasts between 1h and 1h 30 minutes. During the flight, we toast with rosé cava and taste the coca de llardons d'Olot (a delicious local cake), while contemplating the landscape from a bird's eye view. A 360º panoramic of La Garrotxa and its volcanoes. When we have landed, the ground team, which has been following us all the way, picks us up in a 4×4 and we go together to have a good hearty cooked breakfast of bread with tomato and sausage, beans from Santa Pau with sausage, drinks, desserts from Cooperativa la Fageda, coffees and ratafia tasting. To end the adventure we give you the flight diploma signed by the pilot. A perfect way to enjoy a different morning by taking a hot air balloon in Catalonia and not worrying about anything. When the whole experience is over, we will take you back to Barcelona to drop you off at the same point where we picked you up in the morning. The return journey usually takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

From Barcelona: Osona and La Garrotxa Guided Day Trip

From Barcelona: Osona and La Garrotxa Guided Day Trip

Travel in time to witness a different side of Catalonia, filled with medieval landmarks, villages, and food. Visit the well-conserved towns of Vic in Osona, Santa Pau, Besalú, as well as the forests of La Fageda. Start your tour at Vic's sites, where a temple from Roman times, the medieval city walls, and its romanesque cathedral await. Next, visit La Garrotxa, where the landscape is still visibly shaped by its volcanic past. Your next stop is Santa Pau, to explore the medieval city walls and the Santa Maria Church, as well as the town's main square. Pick one of the delicious rustic dishes in one of the guest houses along the way for lunch break. Finish your tour in Besalú, world-famous for its 14th-century bridge that was featured in the TV show Westworld. Visit some of the romanesque landmarks like Saint Peter's or Saint Vincent Monastery. Make the most of your stop and explore local products like salami, cheese, honey, and churros.

Frequently asked questions about Santa Pau

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What people are saying about Santa Pau

Overall rating

4.8
(91 reviews)

If you like going somewhere different and not have to fight your way through tourist crowds, this is the tour for you. Xavi was a very accommodating guide and gave us such an insight into the places he took us. The town of Vic was still asleep when we arrived at 10:30, although he did say that on Saturdays it is crowded with Barcelonés looking for excellent fresh produce. We walked the quiet Medieval (at times, Roman) streets without seeing locals or other visitors. By the time we left, the Place Major had come alive with cafe patrons. The sleepy town of Santa Pau was a step back in time; again affording us a quiet stroll through the ancient streets. The Catalan tapas Xavi suggested for lunch were inexpensive, simple, nourishing, and extremely tasty. The ext stop was Medieval Besalú, and although a few bus loads of tourists were in town, the streets were wide enough for it not to be too crowded. We made two additional stops at the clifftop Castellfo de la Roca and the Sagrada Familia.

The hot air balloon ride over the La Garrotxa volcanic zone was an experience to remember. Watching the sunrise as we floated above the lush volcanic craters was absolutely surreal—like something out of a dream. What made it even more special was the people we met. My partner and I had a great time chatting with Robert and Jaque, who were just as amazed by the views as we were. It felt like we were all sharing a little adventure together. The crew was fantastic—super friendly and professional, which made us feel completely at ease. The post-flight breakfast was the perfect way to wrap up the morning. I’d 100% recommend this to anyone looking for a unique experience in La Garrotxa! Let me know if you’d like any tweaks!

Our guide Xavi was fantastic. He took us to several medieval locations and had incredible knowledge of each. He was very good at describing the history and answering our questions. Outstanding experience.

We very much enjoyed the medieval towns and the commentary by our guide, Gaspar. Would recommend this day trip from Barcelona.

Had a great time, visited towns as expected. Tour guide was knowledgeable and respectful.