1. The Centelles Via Ferrata 

Have you ever counted how many steps it takes to walk seventy metres? Now imagine a Tibetan bridge (two steel cables, one to hold on to with your hands and one to place your feet on) just that long, which you have to cross! If the idea appeals to you, you have to check out the Baumes Corcades Via Ferrata in Centelles, one of the most iconic in Catalonia.  

On this via ferrata (climbing route), apart from the popular bridge (which you can avoid, if you do not feel like crossing it), you will find a vertical path that climbs to the summit of Puigsagordi, surrounded by a gorgeous landscape that changes depending on the direction you take. During the ascent, you will enjoy views of the entire Vic plain, sheltered by Tona Castle. If you look north, you will see the Eastern Pyrenees, Les Guilleries and the Collsacabra; in front of you, the Montseny massif and Tagamanent Castle; and to the south, the Cingles de Bertí. A real feast for the eyes! 

Due to its popularity, you now need to book in advance to access the via ferrata. Moreover, it is essential to wear a harness, an anchor rope equipped with an energy absorber, safety carabiners, a helmet and suitable footwear. Although not mandatory, we also recommend that you wear gloves. If you have never done a via ferrata before, it is also a good idea to hire a guide, who will ensure that you can do the activity safely and make it even more enjoyable. 

2. Hot air balloon flight over Montserrat 

Montserrat, with its unique rock formations, has been a source of admiration, mysticism and a certain magical aura for hundreds of years. Nowadays, thanks to technological advances, it is also one of the most popular places to fly over in Catalonia, as many people want to see its impressive shapes from the sky. 

The suggestion we make here follows this trend, but using a very special means of transportation: the hot air balloon. Thanks to Aircat, you will be able to fly over the Bages region and enjoy unique views of Sallent, Santpedor, Monistrol de Calders, Talamanca, Avinyó, Navàs, Moià, Mura and, of course, Montserrat. There are also other options, such as those offered by Kon-Tiki for hot air balloon rides over regions such as Anoia, Osona and Bages. 

You will also be able to take part in take-off preparations and explore how this unusual means of transportation works. Please note that the balloon cannot be fully steered, so the route will vary depending on weather conditions. But do not worry, the pilots are highly experienced and will guide you safely through the air currents! If you want to enjoy a hot air balloon show, we recommend the European Balloon Festival, which is held every July in Igualada.

3. Guided catamaran tour in Vilanova i la Geltrú 

Have you ever seen a catamaran? It is a two-part vessel with a large sail in the middle that is capable of sailing the sea at high speeds. If you have never been sailing before, this activity is perfect for discovering the wonderful world of boats from a privileged perspective.  

As you depart from Ribes Roges beach in Vilanova i la Geltrú, an experienced guide will teach you the basics of catamaran sailing, while you enjoy views of the seafront skyline and the Garraf beaches.  

We also recommend that you try this activity off-season. Although summer is a great time to be at sea, you will find that seasoned travellers prefer to visit when the crowds of tourists and vacationers have left and the water returns to its more pristine state. In the Garraf region, you can find several marinas offering water sports activities, such as the Port of Sitges and the Vilanova Yacht Club. Do not hesitate any longer and get ready to experience a great water adventure! 

4. Penedès 360 – cycling, vineyards and much more 

Cycling is an efficient and fun means of transportation that allows you to discover new places and experience them first-hand. In the Penedès region, locals are convinced that cycling is the best way to understand the immensity and contrasts of the region, which is why they have created the Penedès 360° Tour, a series of trails that will lead you to the sea, guide you through vineyards and take you to the top of the mountain.  

These are accessible, multi-stage circuits, which have been adapted for all types of bikes and allow you to explore a great region with all its secrets. You will discover the renowned vineyards of the Penedès region, but you will also come across castles, wineries, nature parks, streams, rural villages and a thousand charming places that you have to see at least once in a lifetime. 

To fully enjoy the tour and get the most out of it, you can hire the services of companies such as Penedès Ecotours or Bikemotions, which offer guide services, bike rentals, luggage transfers, winery visits, wine tastings and much more. What is more, both companies have been awarded the Biosphere seal, which ensures that all the services you hire are carried out with care for the environment and respect for the surroundings you will be travelling through. 

5. Canyoning (beginners) in Castellar del Vallès  

Have you ever tried canyoning? It is a really fun and refreshing adventure, the perfect activity for summer days. To do it, you descend (using ropes and safety equipment) along a river in rugged terrain, where pools and waterfalls alternate with fast currents and narrow passages.  

Si vols atrevir-te a provar aquesta aventura per primera vegada, et recomanem el Barranc Estret del Castellar, situat a Castellar del Vallès, on podràs descobrir el món del barranquisme de forma segura i divertida de la mà d’un experienced guide. 

Throughout the activity, where you will be equipped with a harness and a helpful wetsuit (the water in the gorges is always very cold, even in summer!), you will discover incredible jumps of up to five metres, different abseils and a final slide that will leave you breathless! 

6. Dining under the stars in Cercs 

How many times have you stopped to gaze at the starry sky open-mouthed? This last option is a very special suggestion called “Cómete las estrellas” (Eat the Stars), which is organised by the Pedratour team in the town of Cercs, where you will see stars galore and enjoy a luscious meal. 

It is a dinner (be it romantic or not) under the stars, which takes place at the stunning circular viewpoint of La Figuerassa, from where you will have a 360-degree panoramic view of the Baells Reservoir, the Serra del Queralt, the Picancel and the Catllaràs mountains. 

During this unique experience, an expert guide will explain the cosmos and teach you how to observe the stars with telescopes, while you enjoy a delicious gourmet dinner with snacks. A unique sensory experience that is not to be missed!