The 10 BEST Free Walking Tours in Catalonia
If you are looking for walking holiday in the beautiful region of Catalonia, Spain, then search no further. This is still the best chance for anyone who dares to take walking tours and explore more of the beauty of Catalonia, culture and history. As a hunter for a great experience in the outdoors, a history lover, or just a traveler, Catalonia provides people with an incredible amount of trails and ways to explore this region. Here are some of the basic steps that you should follow while planning to go for a walking tour in Catalonia and some of the places that you should not miss.
Why Choose Walking Tours in Catalonia?
What is more, the heritage of prehistoric tribes, Roman invasion, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance period, and much more can allegedly be found there, as well asAwesome and scenic tourist attractions in Catalonia are mountains, coasts, picturesque villages, and towns, as well as large vibrant cities. The benefits that one has while undergoing the walking tours include: It enables one to take a closer look at Catalonia, follow old trails and come across several unknown attractions at his/her own pace. Below are the specific reasons why walking tours are attractive in Catalonia;
- Tourism Resources of Catalonia: Besides the natural beauty of the Pyrenees mountain range, the Costa Brava coast, not to mention the numerous national parks.
- The ideas of cultural diversity: The idea of considering Spain as culturally diverse can be explained by many factors, some of which include the following: Catalonia has its language, culture, and even gastronomic preferences. Strolling tours can be a chance to learn more about the specific culture of Catalonia and get acquainted with the friendly people of the region.
- Historical Importance: Catalonia boasts great history, which is expressed in rich architectural, historical monuments, and preserved medieval small towns. Walking tours help the visitor to come face to face with Catalonia’s rich history and heritage.
- Positive Health: Walking tours can therefore be seen to be healthy in both a physical and mental way. Come to Catalonia to discover the areas of outstanding natural beauty, calmness and fresh air to help you clear your head.
- Sustainability: The kind of tours that are undertaken in Catalonia, especially the walking tours, will have the least adverse effect on the environment and therefore can help to make travelers more aware of the environment.
- Popular Walking Trails in Catalonia
- Catalonia provides many fascinating trails that are of varying difficulty and all types of walkers are bound to find something that suits them. Below are among the leading walking trail in Catalonia;
1. Camino de Santiago
Camino de Santiago or the walk of St James is quite famous and stretches beyond Catalonia in the rest of the country. Even the part of the Camino in the Catalan region is charming with views, the architecture of medieval villages and an opportunity to get acquainted with the ancient culture. The first destination of the Camino in Catalonia is the town of Tarragona which is too pretty with its Roman remains.
2. Montserrat
It is a well-known fact that the mighty Montserrat mountain range, situated near Catalonia’s popular city of Barcelona, is a leading attraction to tourists on hiking. The beautiful natural beauty, beautiful terrains and cliffs, conditioned beauty, deserted monasteries and scenic delight is Montserrat specialized trekking. You should not miss to visit the Benedictine Abbey of Montserrat hosting Santa Maria de Montserrat on the stunning mountains located between the countries of Spain.
3. GR 92 Coastal Path
If you enjoy hiking to the sea-side then the GR 92 Coastal Path should not be missed. This long distance trail covers the beautiful coastline of Catalonia and is famous for the beautiful blue waters, beautiful coves and even beautiful fishing villages. Discover the Cap de Creus Natural Park and enjoy the gentle sunbathing at the coastlines also.
4. Ruta del Cister
The lovers of history should follow the Ruta del Cister – a route that links up three most beautiful Cistercian monasteries in Catalonia: Santes Creu, Poblet, and Vallbona de les Monges. This route gives one an experience of archeological features of Catalan country side, wine farmland and other structures that depict the gothic period of Catalonia.
5. Parc Natural dels Ports
Parc Natural dels Ports is one of the most beautiful and magnificent place where nature has set her best scene. :This is a national park situated in Southern Catalonia which boasts of gorges, beautiful and wild animals, and stunning views. Discover the numerous trails for hiking and trekking, hike the mountains and admire the unspoiled nature of Catalonia.
Tips for a Successful Walking Tour in Catalonia
Beneath abide some basic guidelines in planning a walking tour especially if you plan to go to Catalonia; They include:
- Anticipate: Some things that one should consider before going for a walking trail include the level of difficulty, the time it will take to complete it as well as the weather of the day. Always observe if any permit or entry fee is necessary to be paid before enter into the area.
- Dress right: Always wear sport shoes that can comfortably support some hours of walking while carrying both formal and casual clothes to slip on when the weather changes usually as you go up the higher places. The most important things that people should not forget include a hat, suntan lotion and a water bottle which is re-useful.
- Navigation tools are Map, compass, and global positioning system, to help find the way through the trail especially when the area is isolated. Admire and remember key symbols used when trail marking.
- Hydration and Snacks: To avoid getting thirsty, one should carry enough water and some snacks. Since breakfast is an important meal that supplies energy for the day, it is also advisable to pack snacks for energy such as nuts, fruits, bars among others.
- Respect Nature and Culture: Practice ways that will not harm the existing environment and embrace the Native People’s culture. Subdue and be friendly with them and respect their cultures and what they hold dear.
- Accidents: It is advisable to take travel insurance if there is a probability of an accident at any given point in time while on the walking tours.
In Conclusion
As this article shows, Catalonia is one of the best places that can be explored while on a walking tour. As you can imagine, vistas, cultural sites, and regional delicacies are not behind Catalonia, and anyone up for a hiking will rejoice. No matter whether you select your journey on the Camino de Santiago or wonder around Montserrat mountains, Catalonia will make unforgettable impression on you. So, bring your things, tie your shoelaces, and let yourselves go for quite an adventurous journey that is based on exploring nature and the spirit of Catalonia.
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