Walking Holidays, Guided and Self-Guided Walks Abroad, from Walks Worldwide Walking and Hiking Holidays in Europe and Worldwide

Catalonian Delights

8 days, Self-Guided for 2 people or more, Seasonal Daily Departures

Catalonia has a fascinating historical and cultural heritage resulting from its strategic location on the Mediterranean coast, at the eastern end of the Pyrenees-the huge natural barrier separating Iberia from the rest of Europe. For the walker, the Catalan Pyrenees and their foothills offer some of Spain's finest terrain, with a well-developed network of paths thanks to the region's long tradition of hill walking.
After a first night in Catalonia's vibrant capital of Barcelona, you will travel to the volcanic and limestone hills of La Garrotxa for 6 days of walks in enchanting landscapes before returning to Barcelona to catch your flight back home, although some will prefer the option of staying another night or longer to fully explore the city.

La Garrotxa is a wonderful area that is much beloved by Catalan walkers, offering some spectacular routes yet on fairly gentle terrain, and insight into rural life, beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife. A highlight of any visit is the Parque Natural de la Garrotxa with its surprising topography of extinct volcanoes. Birds of prey, orchids and butterflies abound under natural conditions and sleepy villages lie surrounded by towering peaks and thick forests.
History can be read in every turn of the many old trails that still criss-cross the area. Sturdy old farmhouses, Romanesque churches and bridges, cobbled paths, abandoned terraces, oratories and castles line these well preserved paths. A highlight of any trip through Catalonia is its renowned gastronomy, offering a diverse variety of surprising dishes combining fresh products from the ocean, land and skies, washed down with the excellent local wines. A delightful week spent imbibing the true Catalan spirit.
Day 1. Outbound
Fly to Barcelona and overnight in this bustling yet sophisticated port city that is Spain's most cosmopolitan metropolis with its fascinating architecture and nightlife.
Days 2 and 3. Olot
Next morning, travel by bus to the bustling market town of Olot, capital of the Lower Garrotxa region, and gateway to the famed Parque Natural, where you will walk for two days in a surreal landscape of verdant forests and meadows set among volcanic cones.
Days 4 and 5. Oix
A short transfer takes you to the mediaeval village of Castellfollit de la Roca, perched atop a basaltic lava flow. From here you walk an ancient path to Oix, one of only two inhabited villages left in the Upper Garrotxa region, a friendly little community that is an ideal centre for walking and your base for the next two nights. The following day, choose from several options, including a walk around (and optional ascent of) Mt. Montmajor (1075 metres) or a walk to the impressive gorge of Escales via an isolated Romanesque church.
Days 6 and 7. Beget
Walk the old drover's route to the perfectly preserved mediaeval stone village of Beget, the only other inhabited community in these hills and home to the beautiful church of Saint Cristofor, and if you wish, climb Mt. Bestraca with its old castle ruins. On your final day's walk a circuit in the lush environs of Beget will complete your tour of La Garrotxa.
Day 8. Homeward
A short transfer takes you to Ripoll, where you catch the train back to Barcelona for your flight back home to the UK or for extra days exploring this exciting city.
Catalonia

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  • Tour grade: B.
  • Cost per person: From £765.
  • Single supplement: £120.
  • CO2 offset cost: £1.99.
  • What is included: Flights, accommodation, most meals, luggage transfers, route notes and maps.
  • Accommodation: Hotels and rural inns.
  • Departure dates:
    Daily, March to June and September to November.