A Journey Back in Time: Discovering Catalonia’s Medieval Villages

As a travel writer and a mother of three, I am always on the lookout for experiences that are both educational and entertaining for the whole family. Our recent trip to Barcelona was no exception, and I was particularly excited about the Medieval Villages Tour that promised to take us back in time to explore Catalonia’s beautifully preserved medieval villages. With Sergio as our guide, we embarked on a journey that was nothing short of magical.

Our adventure began bright and early at the Palace of Catalan Music, where we met Sergio, our guide for the day. His enthusiasm was infectious, and he quickly set the tone for what would be an unforgettable experience. As we left the bustling city of Barcelona behind, Sergio regaled us with tales of the region’s history, weaving in fascinating anecdotes that captured the imaginations of both young and old.

Exploring the Enchanting Village of Besalú

Our first stop was the charming village of Besalú, a place that seemed to have leaped straight out of a storybook. As we wandered through its narrow cobblestone streets, Sergio pointed out the 12th-century Romanesque bridge and the 11th-century Monastery of St. Pere. My children were particularly fascinated by the Jewish Baths, or Mikveh, which date back to the 12th century. It was a wonderful opportunity for them to learn about the diverse cultural influences that have shaped this region over the centuries.

Sergio’s storytelling brought the village to life, and he made sure to engage with each member of our group, answering questions and sharing insights. We had some free time to explore on our own, and my kids loved the chance to roam the streets, imagining what life might have been like in medieval times. We even found a quaint café where we enjoyed a delicious hot chocolate while watching the world go by.

A Taste of Catalonia in Rupit

Next, we journeyed to the picturesque village of Rupit, where we were greeted by stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Sergio recommended a family-owned restaurant for lunch, and it turned out to be a highlight of our day. The traditional Catalan dishes were a hit with everyone, and Sergio even arranged for a special vegetarian meal for my husband and me, showcasing his dedication to ensuring everyone had a memorable experience.

After lunch, we explored Rupit’s cobblestone roads, crossed the hanging wooden bridge, and visited the baroque-era Church of Sant Miquel. The ruins of the Castle of Rupit perched on a rocky peak provided a perfect backdrop for family photos, and Sergio was more than happy to play photographer for us. His attention to detail and genuine interest in making our experience special was truly appreciated.

Tavertet: A Scenic Finale

Our final stop was the village of Tavertet, where we took a short walk to the breathtaking cliffs overlooking Pantà de Sau lake. The views were simply spectacular, and Sergio shared stories about the village’s history and the 11th-century romanesque Church of Sant Cristòfol. It was a peaceful and reflective end to our day, and my children were captivated by the natural beauty surrounding us.

As we made our way back to Barcelona, Sergio took the time to sit with each family, answering questions and offering recommendations for the rest of our stay. His passion for the region and his commitment to providing a personalized experience made this tour stand out as one of the best we’ve ever taken.

In conclusion, the Medieval Villages Tour was a perfect blend of history, culture, and family-friendly fun. It was a day filled with laughter, learning, and unforgettable memories, and I can’t recommend it highly enough for families looking to explore the rich heritage of Catalonia.