The Ultimate Guide to Road Trips from Barcelona
Ready to hit the open road and explore the stunning landscapes and charming towns around Barcelona? Whether you’re in search of breathtaking coastal views or picturesque mountain villages, the region has a plethora of road trip options to suit every taste. To help you plan your adventure, let’s take a closer look at the ultimate guide to road trips from Barcelona.
The Costa Brava Scenic Route
One of the most popular road trips from Barcelona is the Costa Brava scenic route. This rugged coastline stretches between Blanes and Portbou, offering stunning vistas of turquoise waters, hidden coves, and soaring cliffs. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming fishing villages, medieval castles, and ancient Greek and Roman ruins.
Begin your journey by renting a car in Barcelona and driving up to the town of Cadaqués, which is famous for its whitewashed houses and winding streets. From there, head to the Cap de Creus Natural Park, where you can take a hike through the rugged terrain and enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Be sure to stop at the town of Figueres to visit the Dalí Theatre-Museum, which showcases the works of the renowned surrealist artist Salvador Dalí.
The Pyrenees Mountain Adventure
If you’re in search of a more challenging road trip, consider heading towards the Pyrenees mountains. These majestic peaks offer a variety of outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, rafting, and biking. You’ll also find picturesque villages and towns nestled in the valleys, many of which date back to the Middle Ages.
Begin your journey by driving to the charming town of Vic, situated in the heart of Catalonia. From there, take the C-17 highway towards Ripoll, where you can see the stunning Romanesque monastery of Santa Maria de Ripoll. Continue your journey towards the Vall de Núria, a majestic valley surrounded by towering mountains. Here, you can take a ride on the rack railway or go skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
The Catalan Wine Route
If you’re more of a foodie, consider taking a road trip along the Catalan wine route. This scenic route takes you through the beautiful Penedès wine region, where you can taste some of the best wines in Spain. You’ll also find charming villages and towns, as well as medieval castles and monasteries.
Begin your journey by driving to Vilafranca del Penedès, a town known for its wine culture and festivals. From there, head towards the famous wineries of Torres and Codorníu, where you can take a guided tour and taste some of their best wines. Be sure to visit the town of Sant Sadurní d’Anoia, the Cava capital of Catalonia, and try some of the region’s sparkling wines.
The Medieval Villages Experience
For a more historical road trip, consider exploring the medieval villages of Catalonia. This route takes you through some of the best-preserved medieval towns in Spain, including Besalú, Pals, and Peratallada. You’ll also find spectacular castles, churches, and fortresses dating back to the Middle Ages.
Begin your journey by driving to the town of Girona, which is famous for its well-preserved old town and Romanesque cathedral. From there, head towards Besalú, a medieval village with a stunning Romanesque bridge over the Fluvià river. Continue your journey towards the coastal town of Pals, which showcases a beautifully preserved Gothic quarter and a stunning castle.
The Conclusion
So, there you have it, the ultimate guide to road trips from Barcelona. Whether you’re interested in coastal views, mountain adventures, wine tasting, or medieval villages, the region has something to offer every traveler. Just remember to take your time, enjoy the scenery, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Happy traveling!
