Medieval Castles and Girona City Exclusive Trip With Lunch

Explore the enchanting medieval landscapes of Catalonia on this exclusive 10-hour journey from Barcelona. Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Montsoriu Castle, then savor a traditional Catalan lunch in a 15th-century mill. Wander the picturesque streets of Girona’s old town, marveling at its well-preserved medieval charm. With convenient hotel pickup and knowledgeable guides, this tour promises to immerse you in the captivating essence of the region. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an unforgettable cultural experience, this trip offers a glimpse into the captivating past that continues to shape the present.

Key Points

• Explore the well-preserved medieval Montsoriu Castle and immerse in Catalonia’s heritage through guided insights and a panoramic hike.
• Indulge in a traditional Catalan lunch at a 15th-century mill, complementing the day’s cultural and historical discoveries.
• Discover the charming medieval old town of Girona, including the iconic Girona Cathedral and picturesque Onyar River.
• Enjoy a scenic 10-hour experience starting from Barcelona, with complimentary hotel pickup and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Personalize your tour with private or small group options, ensuring a customized experience tailored to your preferences.

Trip Overview

This exclusive medieval castles and Girona city trip offers a comprehensive 10-hour experience starting from Barcelona.

Priced from €175 per person, the tour is available in English, Spanish, and Chinese.

Complimentary hotel pickup is included, with a 30-minute window before the tour starts.

Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Private or small group options are available, allowing for a more personalized experience.

The itinerary includes visiting the well-preserved Castell d’Hostalric, a guided hike to Montsoriu Castle, a traditional Catalan lunch, and a walking tour of Girona’s medieval old town before returning to Barcelona.

Pickup Location and Travel

The tour commences with a pickup from Barcelona, where participants are gathered at a predetermined location approximately 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

From there, the group embarks on a 1-hour scenic drive to the medieval town of Castell d’Hostalric.

Along the way, travelers will:

1. Admire the picturesque Montseny Natural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

2. Prepare for a 40-minute hike to the impressive Montsoriu Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Catalonia.

3. Enjoy guided historical insights about the castle and its significance during the medieval era.

This journey through the countryside lays the perfect foundation for the cultural exploration and culinary delights that await in the historic city of Girona.

Montseny Natural Park Exploration

Upon arriving at the Montseny Natural Park, the group embarks on a 40-minute hike to the striking Montsoriu Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Catalonia. Along the way, the guide shares historical insights, bringing the castle’s past to life. Reaching the top, the group is rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and rolling hills.

Castle Features	Significance
Imposing stone walls	Symbolize power and defense
Ornate architectural details	Reflect the castle’s elite status
Remnants of domestic areas	Provide a glimpse into daily life

The guided tour of the castle allows travelers to enjoy the medieval era, fostering a deeper appreciation for Catalonia’s rich heritage.

Montsoriu Castle Guided Tour

After exploring the stunning natural surroundings of Montseny Natural Park, the group ascends to the top of Montsoriu Castle, where the guide leads them on a captivating tour through the castle’s imposing stone walls and ornate architectural details.

The guided tour provides fascinating insights into the castle’s rich history, including:

1. The castle’s strategic location, perched atop a hill, which made it a formidable defensive structure in the Middle Ages.

2. The intricate Gothic and Romanesque architectural elements that showcase the castle’s former grandeur and importance.

3. The stories of the noble families who once called Montsoriu Castle home, and their influence on the region’s history.

The tour leaves the group with a deeper appreciation for the region’s medieval heritage and the enduring legacy of Catalonia’s impressive fortifications.

Lunch at Arbúcies

Following their captivating exploration of Montsoriu Castle, the group travels to the town of Arbúcies, where they indulge in a 1.5-hour traditional Catalan lunch in the setting of a 15th-century mill.

This authentic dining experience allows them to savor the rich flavors of the region’s cuisine, including locally-sourced ingredients and time-honored recipes.

The mill’s historic ambiance adds to the overall experience, transporting the group back in time as they enjoy their meal.

This hearty, leisurely lunch not only nourishes the body but also provides a deeper understanding of Catalan culinary traditions, perfectly complementing the day’s cultural and historical discoveries.

Girona City Exploration

They then embark on the 1-hour drive to the historic city of Girona, where they commence a guided walking tour of the medieval old town, lasting approximately 1.5 hours. This comprehensive exploration provides them with a deeper understanding of Girona’s rich cultural heritage, as the guide shares captivating insights into the city’s architecture, landmarks, and storied past.

Following the guided tour, the group is granted free time to independently discover Girona’s charming streets, unique shops, and other points of interest at their own pace, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Some highlights of the Girona City Exploration include:

1. Admiring the vibrant facades and medieval character of the well-preserved old town.

2. Exploring the iconic Girona Cathedral, a renowned example of Catalan Gothic architecture.

3. Strolling along the picturesque Onyar River, with its colorful riverside houses.

Return to Barcelona

The journey concludes with an 80-minute drive back to Barcelona, where the tour officially ends. During the return trip, travelers can take in the scenic countryside and reflect on the day’s experiences. Upon arrival in Barcelona, guests are free to continue their exploration of the city or head back to their accommodations.

Estimated Time	80 minutes
Route	Girona to Barcelona
Mode of Transport	Air-conditioned vehicle

This exclusive excursion has provided a unique opportunity to discover medieval castles, immerse in Catalan culture, and savor authentic local cuisine. With memories of the day’s adventures, travelers are sure to depart with a deeper appreciation for the rich history and natural beauty of this captivating region.

Tour Features and Inclusions

This tour offers a range of features and inclusions designed to provide an immersive and memorable experience for visitors. Travelers can expect to visit one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Catalonia, explore the scenic Montseny Natural Park, and savor authentic Catalan cuisine in a unique setting.

The tour includes:

1. Private or shared group options for a more personalized experience.

2. Air-conditioned transportation and hotel pickup/drop-off for added convenience.

3. A knowledgeable driver/guide to provide historical insights and cultural context throughout the journey.

With the castle entry ticket and traditional Catalan lunch included, this exclusive trip promises to be a highlight of any visit to the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Private Tour Option?

The maximum group size for the private tour option is not specified. Private tours typically offer a more personalized experience with a smaller group size, allowing for more flexibility and attention from the guide.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour website doesn’t mention any discounts for children or seniors. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator directly as they may offer reduced rates for certain age groups or group sizes.

Is Photography Allowed Inside Montsoriu Castle?

Photography is generally allowed inside Montsoriu Castle. Visitors are free to take photos during the guided tour, but they should be mindful of not disrupting the experience or damaging any historic structures within the castle.

Can the Lunch Menu Be Customized for Dietary Restrictions?

Yes, the lunch menu can be customized to accommodate dietary restrictions. Travelers should notify the tour operator in advance of any special dietary needs, and the operator will work to provide an appropriate meal.

How Much Free Time Is Provided for Personal Exploration in Girona?

The tour provides 1.5 hours of free time for personal exploration in Girona’s medieval old town. Travelers can wander the charming streets, visit local shops, and further enjoy the city’s rich history and culture during this dedicated free time.

Recap

This exclusive day trip from Barcelona provides a captivating journey through Catalonia’s medieval history and natural beauty.

Visitors can explore the impressive Montsoriu Castle, enjoy a traditional Catalan lunch, and discover the charming old town of Girona.

With hotel pickup, knowledgeable guides, and all inclusions, this tour offers a seamless and memorable experience for those seeking to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage.