In other articles we have already talked about the best coves in Catalonia, which in the end is one of the strong points for which the Girona area is known, and for which people look for routes along the Costa Brava. Well, apart from showing you routes through Girona city, as well as the most beautiful villages of the Catalan Pyrenees, this time we want to talk about our selection of charming villages of Girona.
Although we don’t know the exact reason, we know that coastal towns and medieval villages have an inexplicable appeal for many. Fortunately, in Catalonia you don’t have to go far to enjoy it.
Falling in love with Girona is very simple, there is no town without charm. At Willy’s Plan we want to make it even easier for you, and that’s why we have made a list of the 10 most beautiful villages in Girona. Although this is not all that Girona has to offer, they are ideal destinations to understand the essence of the province.
Cadaqués
Cadaqués is one of the most beautiful coastal towns of Girona, located on the famous Costa Brava. There is nothing like getting lost in this place: a small fishing village that was the inspiration of many artists; one of them, Salvador Dalí. Therefore, it is almost a crime to forget to visit his House-Museum. As well as the old town, with the Church of Santa Maria, the Castle of San Jaime and the Museum of Cadaqués.
Cadaqués, with its white houses facing the sea and its picturesque streets, meets the expectations of anyone who wants to stay with the essence of the Mediterranean. If you want to know more about this beautiful town and all the things you can do, we recommend you to take a look at the routes and excursions to do in Cadaqués. One of our favorites is, without a doubt, the route to the lighthouse of Cala Nans.
2. Peratallada
Peratallada is one of the most spectacular medieval villages of Girona, as it seems that its streets are part of a world where the years have not passed. The castle, the keep and the church of Sant Esteve transport you to Girona’s medieval past.
In fact, if you are looking for what to do and what to see in Peratallada, in Willy’s Plan you will find ideas, plans and getaways to enjoy the area and surroundings.
3. Besalú
How can we talk about the most beautiful places in Girona and not mention Besalú? This is another medieval village that was declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1966.
Just arriving and crossing an impressive 11th century bridge takes you back to that time, where it is inevitable to stay throughout the visit to the village, as the wall of Portalet, the Monastery of Sant Pere, the Gothic hall of the Royal Curia, the Casa de Cornellà and the church of Sant Vicenç make it very easy. In addition, in the Jewish quarter is the Miqvé, one of only two Jewish ritual bath sites that have been discovered in Spain, making it a unique experience guaranteed.
4. Tossa de Mar
If you are looking to discover the most beautiful places in Girona, Tossa de Mar should be on the list: a coastal town located between beautiful coves and beaches, which are a great temptation for diving lovers.
The Vila Vella of the city, with the castle of Tossa and the walls, gives it an unforgettable medieval touch. In addition, you can also visit the old fishermen’s quarter, the Parish Church of San Vicente from the 18th century. To all this, we advise you to take a look at the article where we talk about the routes and excursions to do in Tossa de Mar, and in particular the route from Torre des Moros to Cala Codolar.
5. Calella de Palafrugell
Another postcard-worthy fishing village is Calella de Palafrugell, with its white houses and magnificent coves. It was the inspiration for Joan Manuel Serrat when he composed the song Mediterráneo, which manages to capture the essence of this Costa Brava town.
Calella de Palafrugell is also a town located in the middle of one of the many coastal paths that we find along the coast of Girona, one of the most famous hiking trails to do on the Costa Brava. We also have routes in the area, where we present the coastal path from Llafranc to Calella de Palafrugell.
6. Pals
Pals is a medieval village in Girona which is also a must if you want to stay with a good taste in your mouth. It is located between the mountains of Begur and very close to the coast. And if you are in the area, we recommend that you take a look at the article where we talk about what to do in Pals and surroundings.
Among all the monuments, the Church of Sant Pere, the fortified house of Ca La Pruna, and the Tower of the hours stand out, although it is also necessary to visit the Plaza Mayor and the tombs of the Main Street.
7. Monells
Very close to the capital of the province, Girona, is Monells, a small medieval village that became popular thanks to its appearance in the movie
Eight Catalan surnames
. Despite having gone unnoticed for many years, all its corners are able to transport us to the Middle Ages, such as the porticoes of the Plaza Mayor, its streets, the remains of the old wall and the Church of San Ginés.
8. Camprodon
Among all these charming villages of Girona, we find Camprodón at the confluence of the rivers Ter and Ritort. The first thing that will catch your attention is the 12th century medieval bridge (New Bridge) that passes over the Ter river, but the town has much more to offer, such as the Monastery of Sant Pere (originally from the 10th century), the Parish Church of Santa Maria and the Isaac Albeniz Museum, as it is the birthplace of the composer.
In addition, the village is known for its sausage, so you can’t leave the village without tasting it!
9. Beget
Beget is one of the smallest villages in Girona, but no less beautiful. The three quarters that make up the village still retain their 12th century structure. In this small territory it is not difficult to find a corner that will take your breath away: the stone streets, its two medieval bridges, the church of Sant Cristòfor, a Romanesque temple and the stone houses, rebuilt without losing the medieval essence.
10. Santa Pau
If when visiting Girona, you have not wanted to miss the extraordinary Fageda d’en Jordà, very close we find Santa Pau. Located in the Garrotxa Natural Park, an area of volcanic lands, is this other medieval village of Girona, known not only for its stunning scenery, but also for its gastronomy: a variety of beans specific to the village (els Fesols de Santa Pau).
In Santa Pau you should visit the Castle (built between the 13th and 14th centuries), surrounded by the medieval walled quarter; the Church of Santa Maria, famous for its bell tower; the Romanesque Church of Sant Vicenç, considered an exquisite heritage site; and the Monastery of Sant Julià del Mont.
