The Catalan Pyrenees is characterized by its spectacular mountains, which offer wonderful views of the surrounding villages. Occupying almost half of the Pyrenees, the Pyrenees extends over 11 counties offering a multitude of places where you can enjoy relaxing getaways in Catalonia, activities to do with your family or with friends.
Some of these areas are well known and receive thousands of tourists a year, as is the case of Vielha. However, there are others that, due to their small size or access, have not yet been discovered by most tourists. Below, we will show you the 5 most beautiful villages in the Catalan Pyrenees.
1. Camprodon
Considered one of the best villages in the Catalan Pyrenees is Camprodón. Located in the Ripollés (Girona) next to the Ter river, with 2,200 inhabitants, the small town offers all its visitors wonderful views from the Nou Bridge (XVIII century) that is worth contemplating. In winter, the image of the river contrasts with the blanket of snow that covers the town, giving it a very special charm.
Other places of interest that the place offers are the Santa María Church and the Isaac Albéniz Museum. Dedicated to this great Catalan composer born in this town in 1860. We recommend this small village for all those mountain lovers who want to have all the services at their disposal, highlighting among all its fascinating gastronomy.
Finally, in the same region of Camprodón we find the village of Beget, of medieval origin that hides beautiful activities such as those that we propose in our article where we talk about the routes and excursions in Beget as well as mountain biking.
2. Taüll
If you like architecture, without a doubt, your perfect destination is the village of Taüll located in the Bohí Valley (Lleida). Despite its small size, this place, which has less than 300 inhabitants, has two major landmarks of Romanesque architecture: the Church of Santa Maria and the Church of Sant Climent (which was declared a Historic-Artistic Monument in 1931 and a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2000) which stands out for its six-story bell tower that can be seen from anywhere in the village.
For those who love Romanticism, the small village of Taüll in the Alta Ribagorça, will allow you to go back centuries and enjoy the Catalan Pyrenees from another perspective.
3. Vielha
Another of the most charming villages in the Catalan Pyrenees is the capital of the Vall d’Aran, Vielha. The town, located at 974 meters above sea level, is striking for the great contrast between the narrow streets and houses of the old town with its large avenues full of commercial life.
If you are looking for cultural activities, we highlight the visit of the Church of Sant Miqunext to the Town Hall building, the Ethnological Museum and the Wool Museum. On the other hand, if you are looking for outdoor activities, thanks to its geographical location in the center of the valley, there are numerous hiking trails that allow you to contemplate the beauty of the Catalan Pyrenees.
4. Llívia
We highlight Llívia as another of the most beautiful villages of the Catalan Pyrenees although it hides a striking curiosity. Thanks to the “Treaty of the Pyrenees”, signed in the 18th century, it belongs to Girona, although its almost 1,500 inhabitants are totally surrounded by French lands.
In addition to its well-known gothic church in the form of a fortress which is accessed through a beautiful cobblestone path, in this village we highlight the Esteve de Llívia Pharmacyone of the oldest in Europe. In 1415, the year the pharmacy opened its doors, the apothecary Jaume Esteve was in charge of opening it every day until 1942, after passing through 23 generations. The last owner of the family was Leon Antonio Esteve, who gave it to the City Council and now belongs to the Diputació de Girona. The materials and all the furniture of the establishment are part of the Municipal Museum of Llívia.
5. Unha
The last village we present in this list is Unha, located in the Vall d’Aran (Lleida), about 1,280 meters above sea level. This beautiful village in the Catalan Pyrenees is inhabited by only 125 inhabitants.
Surrounded by mountains and nature, it is characterized by its stone houses and its narrow streets that lead to the Church of Santa Eulàliafrom the 12th century. If you are a lover of architecture, you will love the beauty of this destination, which combines the beauty of Romanesque and Gothic together. Finally, if you decide to visit Unha, it is a must to taste its typical dish, which is the Aranese pot.
There are other areas and routes, along with the most beautiful villages of the Catalan Pyrenees already mentioned, such as the excursions to do in Castellar de N’hug. Although, really, this area hides thousands of corners that will surprise you and make you fall in love from the first moment.
