The essence of history
The mixture of past and present is the main attraction of Osona, a region that glitters with its own light right in the heart of Catalonia. This mountain-ringed plain has been home to Bishops and shepherds, bandits and Lords, and the echo of their stories can still be heard. If you want to listen closely, come and visit! Now is the time to revive their memory.
Get your visit to Osona off to a great start with a wander through Vic market. Ever since medieval times, it has taken place every Tuesday and Saturday, and it's definitely the best place to chat with the stall-holders and try the region's great culinary wealth. Then you can join a guided tour of the old town and uncover all the secrets of the Roman temple, the Cathedral, the walls, the Town Hall or the Episcopal Museum.
If you want a quieter time, come to Vidrà and find out all about a shepherd's daily life. Depending on the season, you can take part in the many tasks that need doing; you can even try your hand at the ancient art of sheep-shearing. Or would you rather learn how to make cheese, cold meats or great bread in a wood-fired oven? No problem! All of this is easily arranged in this beautiful village in the north of Osona.
One of the region's other unusual attractions is the Perot Rocaguinarda Centre, a museum located in Olost which explains the fascinating history of the bandit Rocaguinarda. The centre takes you through the life and times of this Catalan Robin Hood who fought in the forests of Lluçanès in the early 17th century; you'll soon see that those were not easy times!
And how about rounding off our visit in a large 13th-century fortified manor house? Down the ages, Montesquiu Castle has belonged to many families, from nobles to commoners, but its medieval charm remains intact. And the scenery in the natural park it's in is lovely!
• And speaking of lovely scenery, have you visited Sau Collsacabra Valley? Its impossible cliff-faces are hypnotic.
More information:
Osona Tourist Board Vic Tourist Board
Vic Episcopal Museum
Vidrà Tourist Board
Perot Rocaguinarda Centre
Olost Tourist Board
Lluçanès Tourist Board