With the Family

Very close to Barcelona, there are hidden villages, towns, routes and landscapes which, once you visit them, you cannot help but think about going back to or recommending them to anyone you know for them to enjoy a great one- or two-day getaway. Which one do you choose?

If you think you need to travel beyond the regions of Barcelona to enjoy ancient and meaningful cultural spectacles, then you haven’t experienced the atmosphere of human tower-building performance from the front row, you haven’t leapt up and down during the Patum festivities in Plaça de Sant Pere in Berga, and you haven’t seen the night-time descent of the falles (torches) in Berguedà. If you had, you’d understand why UNESCO has included these essential ancient traditions in its List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and, above all, you’d make a date in your diary to make sure you don’t miss them!

La Cadira (The Chair), La Bardera (named after a nearby ancient farmhouse), El Circell (The Tendril), Sant Pau (Saint Paul) and Balcó del Penedès (Balcony of the Penedès) are the names of the five lookout points that form part of the Miravinya route. This route, designed to be travelled by car, is a fantastic way to discover a good part of the geography of the Alt Penedès region, along with its culture and history. In addition to vineyards, you can also explore mediaeval castles, paper mills, chapels, monasteries, towns and villages, and natural areas of great interest.

Over 45 castles, 25 of which are open to the general public, are the jewels of mediaeval heritage in the region of Anoia. Some are easy to get to, while others are more isolated, but they all hold plenty of historical and cultural interest. Do you already know the most famous ones?

For over five hundred years, a walled keep protected the riches of Cardona. But nowadays, this beautiful town throws the doors to its old town wide open and unveils all the secrets of its impregnable castle.  Do you fancy a visit to the last Catalan stronghold to fall in the War of the Spanish Succession in 1714? 

There are places that inspire. Towns and cities with charming museums, where you can enjoy the rich cultural and scientific heritage of Barcelona's regions without having to contend with crowds and endless queues. If you go alone or with adult company, like a friend or partner, you will, of course, be able to concentrate and take more in. If you decide to take children, you will be able to exchange curiosities and different ways of perceiving. Your perspectives will change forever!