Two years ago I took a special trip to Catalonia Spain. Loved it. One of the best parts was visiting all the medieval villages in the region. If you really want to learn the local culture get out of the city, head to the country and visit the villages. Here are five must-see villages I love visiting in Catalonia.
Catalan Village #1 – Peratallada
This place is magical. When you step through the city gate, you travel back in time to medieval days. Wander around and take a ton of photos here. The reason Peratallada is #1 is that I was blown away while there.
Catalan Village #2 – Cadaques
This place is located on the Med. Full of white-washed buildings – it looks like Greece. Salvador Dali lived nearby. It is a beautiful place that used to be a hippy hangout. I loved spending time in Cadaques by the sea.
Catalan Village #3 – Pals
Pals was stunning. I visited on a sunny day. While there, I ran into some Americans in Pals which was somewhat odd. I was the only American in most of the villages I visited. It was rare I heard any English. One of the best ways to travel is to become a local. Get out there and explore these small places.
Catalan Village #4 – Begur
I ate lunch here and wandered around it for an hour or two. It is on the Med, but Begur is not a beach town like many of the villages in this region. Definitely worth a stop, and not far from the other villages on this list.
Catalan Village #5 – Ullastret
This place is old as dirt. They have an excavation site of ancient ruins. The church here is a thousand years old. I did not spend too much time in Ullastret. One of the nice things about visiting these villages is that they are all small and easy to explore quickly. I was able to visit several of them in one day without rushing around.
Helpful hint – rent a car to explore these villages
You definitely will need a car to get around to these villages. I recommend renting a small car. They are easier to maneuver in these villages with small roads. Driving in Catalonia was not challenging. Good roads and signs throughout the region. One other reason to rent a car is that it allows you to explore on your own schedule.
Three quick questions about visiting medieval villages in Catalonia
- What was my favorite place – Begur castle site. Worth the climb for the views.
- What was my favorite site – Dali’s house. It is as wild and wacky as you would expect.
- What was the best-hidden gem – Cardona castle. You can stay overnight here for a reasonable price.
I am Doug Keating and this is my letter to sons.