Explore the villages nestled in the Pyrenees of Catalonia, where efforts are underway to preserve the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of northern Spain. From ancient Roman fishing ports to medieval settlements, these charming communities are making strides towards conservation.
In these picturesque villages, visitors can trace the footsteps of centuries past, immersing themselves in the stories of bygone eras. Against the backdrop of rugged mountains and pristine wilderness, initiatives are being implemented to safeguard the region’s cultural heritage and natural splendor.
Whether wandering through cobblestone streets or admiring historic architecture, travelers have the opportunity to connect with the essence of the Pyrenees and witness firsthand the dedication to preserving this treasured corner of Catalonia.
The Pyrenees of Catalonia, a rugged granite mountain range in northeastern Spain, renowned for its winter sports offerings, holds a wealth of treasures beyond its famed ski resorts like Baqueira Beret and Boí Taüll. Delve deeper, and you’ll discover a tapestry of historic medieval villages where time seems to stand still.
In these idyllic hamlets, farmers continue age-old traditions, herding free-roaming cattle, while artisans craft cheese from hand-churned goats’ milk. Families carry on the timeless rituals of curing meats and harvesting honey, following in the footsteps of their ancestors who shaped the region’s cultural heritage centuries ago.
Surrounding these picturesque villages are six natural parks, including the breathtaking Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park. This pristine landscape, adorned with glacial lakes, verdant forests, and towering summits exceeding 10,000 feet, offers a haven for exploration year-round. With over 620 miles of marked trails, Catalonia’s storied landscapes and historic villages beckon adventurers to embark on unforgettable journeys through nature’s embrace.
1. Arties
Best for: Aranese cuisine, hot springs, and alpine hikes
Nestled amidst the verdant Aran Valley, Arties stands as a testament to Roman heritage, its ancient roots entwined with the Valarties and Garonne rivers. Unlike its counterparts in the Catalan Pyrenees, Val d’Aran, where Arties resides, boasts a unique cultural identity, owing to its location on the Atlantic side of the mountains. Here, the Aranese language, alongside Catalan and Spanish, echoes through stone and slate houses, complemented by 12th-century Romanesque churches and eateries offering delectable local fare like olha Aranesa—a tantalizing slow-cooked stew featuring black pudding, meatballs, potatoes, and noodles.
For avid hikers, Arties serves as a gateway to stunning alpine landscapes. A picturesque trail leads from the village to the glacial lakes of Era Restanca and Lac de Mar, nestled at the base of the majestic Besiberri Nord peak. Moreover, Arties boasts a sanctuary for relaxation seekers: Banhs d’Arties, where thermal swimming pools beckon visitors to unwind—a tradition dating back to the ancient Romans who once luxuriated in these soothing waters.
2. Castellar de n’Hug
Best for: Medieval churches and 20th-century railways
With roots tracing back to 839, when it was first documented at the Cathedral of Urgell in Lleida, Castellar de n’Hug exudes an ancient charm. Nestled in the highlands of Berguedà on the southern foothills of the Pyrenees, this quaint town is embraced by the scenic Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park, boasting over 250 miles of marked trails, including the renowned GR-4, GR-7, and GR-107 routes. Here, the inception of the Llobregat River springs to life, as meltwater rushes forth from the nearby peaks of Puigllançada and Tosa d’Alp during the spring season.
Castellar de n’Hug flourished during the medieval era, a legacy that endures in its cobblestone streets, ancient dry-stone walls, and impeccably preserved Romanesque churches. Delve deeper into its industrial heritage by exploring the Cement Museum Asland and the historic Cement Train—a 20th-century railway that once transported cement and coal from Castellar de n’Hug to Guardiola de Berguedà until 1963. Today, this iconic railway operates as a tourist attraction, offering visitors a nostalgic journey through time.
3. Taüll
Best for: Stargazing, cheese-making, and ancient fire festivals
Nestled in Vall de Boí, Taüll beckons with its rich tapestry of cultural and natural wonders. At its heart stands the iconic 12th-century Romanesque church, Sant Climent de Taüll, boasting a magnificently preserved six-storey bell tower—a testament to the village’s medieval heritage. Delve deeper into Taüll’s culinary scene at Formatgeria Taüll, the village cheese shop renowned for crafting Catalonia’s finest goats’ cheese.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the allure of Aigüestortes cannot be overstated. Catalonia’s sole national park, Aigüestortes and Sant Maurici Lake National Park, enchants with its mosaic of around 200 lakes, numerous waterfalls, and a plethora of hiking, biking, and climbing routes. Recognized as a UNESCO Starlight Reserve, the park offers unparalleled stargazing opportunities, with Sant Quirc de Durro serving as a prime vantage point. Located eight miles southwest of Taüll, this stargazing viewpoint features an astronomical table to aid enthusiasts in identifying stars and constellations.
Plan your visit to coincide with the third weekend of July to experience the Falles del Pirineu—an ancient fire ritual marking the summer solstice. As hundreds of flaming torches descend from the mountains, Taüll comes alive with the spirit of tradition and celebration, offering a glimpse into its vibrant cultural heritage.
4. Santa Pau
Best for: Volcano hikes and hot air balloon rides
In the heart of the volcano-dotted municipality of La Garrotxa, Santa Pau enchants visitors with its rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Dominating the skyline is the majestic 13th-century hilltop castle, a testament to the region’s medieval heritage and the legacy of one of Girona’s most prominent baronial families.
Steeped in tradition, Santa Pau’s medieval center served as a bustling hub for centuries, where cattle were bought and sold. Amidst its cobblestone streets, you’ll find the exquisite 15th-century Gothic church and a plethora of family-run restaurants offering delectable local fare. Indulge in fresh yogurt drizzled with honey, savory cured meats, flavorful butifarra sausage, and buttery white beans sourced exclusively from the verdant region of La Garrotxa.
Venture beyond the town’s charming confines to explore the Garrotxa Volcanic Area Natural Park, home to a captivating array of ancient dormant volcanoes. Traverse the trails leading to landmarks such as Santa Margarida, Montsacopa, and Croscat—the largest volcano on the Iberian Peninsula. For a truly unforgettable experience, ascend to the skies on a hot air balloon ride with Vol de Coloms. Marvel at panoramic vistas encompassing all three volcanoes, the Montserrat mountain range near Barcelona, and, on clear days, the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
5. Beget
Best for: Stepping back in time
Tucked away in the picturesque landscape of Camprodon, the medieval village of Beget offers a glimpse into Catalonia’s rich heritage. Until 1983, Beget remained secluded, accessible only by rugged paths, preserving its authentic charm. Today, it stands as one of the finest examples of a 12th-century Pyrenean village, its stone and clay-roofed houses clustered along the banks of the tranquil Llierca River.
Crossing the river are 14th-century stone bridges, reminiscent of a bygone era when horse-drawn carriages traversed these narrow pathways. The village’s oldest dwellings, crafted with lime mortar and mud mortar, boast intricate wooden balconies hand-carved by local artisans, preserving the essence of craftsmanship through the ages.
Surrounded by verdant pastures, Beget exudes serenity, with grazing cattle dotting the landscape and lush forests teeming with crystalline rivers and natural pools—a haven for wild swimming enthusiasts during the summer months. Moreover, Beget serves as a gateway to the enchanting Pyrenean towns of Olot, Prats de Molló, and Setcases, connected via the GR-11 and GR-83 hiking routes. Whether embarking on long-distance treks, exploring on two wheels, or experiencing the region’s beauty on horseback, Beget offers boundless opportunities for unforgettable adventures amidst Catalonia’s timeless landscapes.
6. Llançà
Best for: quiet beaches, fresh seafood and coastal walks
The fishing village of Llançà, just 12 miles from the French border on Catalonia’s Costa Brava, was first founded under the Roman name of Danciana in 218 BCE. While little remains of its ancient past, a Romanesque tower dating between the 13th and 14th centuries and the Church of Sant Vicenç, built during the town’s wine and olive oil boom in the 18th century, still stand in Llançà’s picturesque centre.
The village’s tranquil beaches and fresh-off-the-boat seafood are among its largest draws. There are several strips of sand to choose from along Llançà’s four-mile coastline, from the wide, sandy shores of Platja del Port and Platja de Grifeu to small, rocky coves like Platja de la Gola. Inland, Cap de Creus Natural Park and Albera Massif protected area offer Pyrenean hikes — the highest ascents can be found on Monte Neulós (1,257 metres) and Monte de los Pastors (1,167 metres) — overlooking the Mediterranean.
Plan your trip
Various airlines offer direct flights from London, Edinburgh and Manchester to Barcelona and Girona — Catalonia’s two main airports. From here, there’s various connections to the Pyrenees of Catalonia by bus and train. For those visiting multiple villages, particularly those that are more remote, hiring a car from Barcelona or Girona airport is recommended. For more information, go to visitpirineus.com.