From Girona: Besalú, Banyoles & Historical Garrotxa Day Trip

Exploring the Garrotxa region from Girona promises an enriching day filled with historical gems and captivating landscapes. Visitors can discover the medieval charm of Besalú, admire the striking cliffs of Castellfollit de la Roca, and uncover the history behind Lake Banyoles. With an experienced guide leading the way, this small-group tour offers a chance to take in the region’s heritage and natural beauty. Whether seeking cultural insights or simply craving breathtaking vistas, this day trip from Girona caters to a variety of interests. What makes this experience truly unique, however, lies in the opportunity to…

This experience made our list of the 9 Best Historical Tours In Girona.

Key Points

• This day trip from Girona explores the Garrotxa region, including the medieval town of Besalú, the scenic Lake Banyoles, and the unique village of Castellfollit de la Roca.
• Participants can discover the region’s rich history and cultural heritage, with guided walks, visits to historical landmarks, and insights into the local architecture and natural wonders.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, breakfast, and lunch, ensuring a convenient and immersive experience.
• Visitors can admire the stunning medieval Pont del Llierca bridge, stroll through the charming streets of Besalú, and enjoy panoramic views from the basaltic rock promontory of Castellfollit de la Roca.
• The tour is limited to a small group of 8 participants, providing an intimate and personalized experience in the Garrotxa region.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This day trip from Girona takes travelers on a journey through the picturesque Garrotxa region, visiting the charming towns of Castellfollit, Besalú, and Banyoles.

Priced at €135 per person, the 8-hour experience is limited to a small group of 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized adventure.

Guests can enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the expertise of a live tour guide fluent in Spanish, Catalan, and English.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the tour provides flexibility.

Whether you’re seeking hidden bridges, scenic viewpoints, or insights into the region’s rich history, this day trip promises an immersive and unforgettable experience.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from any accommodation in Girona, allowing guests a seamless start to their day trip. Next, travelers will visit Castellfollit de la Roca, a captivating village perched atop basaltic rock formations. After exploring this unique locale, the group will head to medieval Besalú, where a guided walk reveals the town’s rich history. Along the way, they’ll view the Pont del Llierca, a stunning medieval bridge crossing the Fluviá River. The final stop is Lake Banyoles, where guests can stroll around the tranquil shores and learn about the area’s natural wonders.

Itinerary Highlights	Details
Castellfollit de la Roca	Unique village on basaltic rocks
Besalú	Guided walk through medieval town
Pont del Llierca	Picturesque medieval bridge
Lake Banyoles	Scenic stroll and nature exploration

Included Services

The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day trip.

An English-speaking guide accompanies the group throughout the journey, providing valuable insights and historical anecdotes.

Guests also enjoy a breakfast with scenic views of Castellfollit de la Roca, as well as a lunch after exploring the medieval town of Besalú.

Plus, the tour provides insurance coverage and complimentary bottled water to keep travelers hydrated and comfortable during the excursion.

These included services enhance the overall experience, allowing participants to fully enjoy the rich cultural and natural wonders of the Garrotxa region without worrying about logistics or unexpected expenses.

Experience and Learning

Throughout the day trip, travelers can discover hidden bridges, narrow rivers, and scenic viewpoints that offer marvelous vistas of the Garrotxa region. Guests will also have the opportunity to hear anecdotes about the area’s history and significance during the Middle Ages, providing valuable context and insights into the cultural heritage of the destinations visited.

Discover	Hear	Enjoy
Hidden bridges	Anecdotes about history	Marvelous views
Narrow rivers	Significance in Middle Ages	Scenic landscapes
Scenic viewpoints	Cultural heritage insights	–

The tour promises an enriching experience, blending exploration of the region’s natural wonders with a deep dive into its captivating past, leaving travelers with a newfound appreciation for this historical corner of Catalonia.

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Castellfollit De La Roca

Atop a basaltic rock promontory, Castellfollit de la Roca stands as a captivating village that commands sweeping views over the Fluvià River valley. This striking settlement, with its colorful houses and narrow streets, provides visitors with a glimpse into the region’s rich history and natural wonders.

During the tour, guests will have the opportunity to explore the village’s historic center, admiring the unique architecture and learning about the geological formation that gave rise to this remarkable location.

With its picturesque setting and fascinating history, Castellfollit de la Roca is a must-visit destination on the Girona to Garrotxa day trip, offering travelers a truly memorable experience.

Medieval Besalú

After exploring the striking village of Castellfollit de la Roca, the tour continues to the charming medieval town of Besalú, where visitors can enjoy the rich history and well-preserved architecture of this captivating destination. During the guided walk, guests will discover the town’s Romanesque bridge, ancient Jewish quarter, and other medieval landmarks that transport them back in time. The following table highlights some of Besalú’s key historical and architectural features:

Feature	Description
Romanesque Bridge	Crossing the Fluvia River, this 12th-century bridge is a masterpiece of medieval engineering.
Jewish Quarter	Besalú was once home to a thriving Jewish community, with remnants of synagogues and ritual baths.
Monastery of Sant Pere	This Benedictine monastery dates back to the 9th century and features Romanesque and Gothic elements.

Pont Del Llierca Bridge

The Pont del Llierca is a captivating medieval bridge that spans the Fluvia River near the town of Besalú. Constructed in the 12th century, this architectural marvel features a distinctive arched design and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

As visitors cross the bridge, they can’t help but marvel at its impressive engineering and the historical significance it holds. The bridge’s strategic location has made it an important landmark throughout the region’s history.

Today, it remains a popular destination for travelers seeking to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the Garrotxa area. This picturesque bridge is a must-see stop on any day trip from Girona to the Besalú and Banyoles region.

Lake Banyoles Exploration

Visitors can stroll around the tranquil Lake Banyoles, learning about its rich history and diverse natural environment from the knowledgeable tour guide.

This serene lake, surrounded by rolling hills, offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city of Girona, allowing travelers to enjoy the region’s scenic beauty.

The guide will share insights into the lake’s formation, its importance as a source of water, and the unique flora and fauna that thrive in its waters and along its shores.

Visitors can take in the picturesque views and appreciate the lake’s role in the local ecosystem.

This tranquil exploration provides a well-deserved break during the day’s historical and cultural discoveries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Transportation Included From Cities Other Than Girona?

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from any accommodation in Girona. However, transportation is not provided from cities other than Girona. Participants must make their own way to the pickup location in Girona.

Can I Request a Private Tour for My Group?

Yes, you can request a private tour for your group. The tour operator offers private tours upon request, which allows you to customize the itinerary and have a more personalized experience with just your group.

What Is the Dress Code Recommended for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and casual, weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Bring layers, as the temperature can vary throughout the day in the Garrotxa region.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Meals?

The tour doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions for the included meals. Travelers with special dietary needs should notify the tour operator in advance so they can accommodate any requirements. The meals likely offer a variety of options.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Locations?

The tour generally follows a set itinerary, but the provider may be able to accommodate additional stops or changes depending on availability and group size. It’s best to inquire about customization options when booking the tour.

Recap

This day trip from Girona to the Garrotxa region promises an unforgettable experience.

Explore the medieval town of Besalú, marvel at the stunning landscapes of Castellfollit de la Roca, and discover the picturesque Lake Banyoles.

With an expert guide, enjoy a guided tour, savor local cuisine, and learn about the rich history and culture of this captivating area.

You can check availability for your dates here: