While most people tend to head straight to the Catalan capital of Barcelona, the rest of the region has just as much (if not more!) to offer visitors. Here we explain why Catalonia is the perfect place for a walking holiday.

1. Coastal Paths

Following trails along the Costa Brava is the stuff walking holidays are made of; sun, clear blue seas, whitewashed towns and hidden coves. Catalonia is the perfect place to escape from everyday life, and enjoy days of walking topped off with evenings of fine food and wine.

2. Mountain Villages

Away from the crowds with unspoiled landscapes, the villages of Camprodon and Setcases, nestled in the Catalan Pyrenees, are well worth a visit – step back in time and marvel at the striking Romanesque churches and ancient monasteries.

3. Adventure

From parasailing over Barcelona’s coastal waters to white water rafting in the Noguera Pallaresa, there are plenty of adventurous activities to keep you busy on your trip. Why not hop on your bike and cycle around Catalonia to take in even more of the region?

4. Gaudí

One of the main draws to the Catalan region, the brilliance of Gaudí can be seen in his Barcelona masterpieces. Stop for a picnic in the colourful Parc Güell or stand in awe as you admire the magnificent Sagrada Família, due for completion in 2026.

5. Dalí

Fans of Dalí can visit the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres, which is a surreal tribute to the ever-eccentric Catalan artist. In his own words he wanted ‘ a totally theatrical museum...the people who come to see it will leave with the sensation of having had a theatrical dream’, which is exactly how it feels when you leave and step back into reality!

6. Food

While you'll find traditional Spanish dishes such as paella and tortilla on offer, Catalonia has a few treats of its own for foodie walkers. Escudella i carn d'olla, a hearty stew with plenty of meat and vegetables, is perfect for refuelling after a long day of walking, while pa amb tomàquet (slightly toasted bread rubbed in fresh tomatoes, olive oil and salt) is a staple accompaniment to any Catalan dish. For dessert, get your spoon ready to crack open a crema catalana, the delicious Catalan take on a crème brûlée.

7. Wine

While no one needs much convincing to sip a glass of cold, Catalan cava on a summer’s night, there are plenty of other wines to discover in this popular wine growing region. For the red-lovers, give Priorat a try - a rich, dark and powerful wine, perfect to go with those Catalan pork dishes. Salut!

8.  Weather

'The rain in Spain falls mainly on the plain.' Fortunately, Catalonia doesn’t disappoint on the weather front. You can expect heat and sunshine during summer, with July and August often exceeding 30 degrees. For more comfortable walking, May and September are typically sunny with temperatures in the low to mid twenties.

9. History

Head to medieval Girona and walk down its narrow cobbled streets, catching a glimpse of the city walls built in the first century BC to protect against invaders. Alternatively, head northwest of Barcelona to the ancient Montserrat Monastery to enjoy breathtaking views deep into the heart of Catalonia.

You can view our exciting range of walking and cycling holidays in Catalonia here or alternatively, get in touch with our team who are on hand to help you plan your next adventure.