Experiences

If you have a curious mind and are looking for a family-friendly activity, then plan a day trip to the colònies tèxtils (textile model villages) of the regions of Barcelona. Built between the end of the 19th century and the early 20th century, they’re still full of working machines, fabrics you’re allowed to touch and plenty of amazing stories. Ready to journey into the past?

Showing full respect to local culture is one of the main principles of sustainable tourism. But since it’s difficult to show respect to what we don’t know, before travelling to place, we should try and find out about the most important aspects of its tangible and intangible heritage. So if you’re thinking of visiting the regions of Barcelona in the near future, here are five keys to enjoying a truly authentic trip and not feeling like just another tourist as you travel around.

Did you know that you can explore a world of fascinating heritage in the towns of the metropolitan area of Barcelona with the same travel card you use to get around the city itself? Well, you can! There are plenty of tourist attractions close to the capital and they can all be easily be reached by metro, bus, tram and train. 

Without a doubt, the Llobregat Delta is one of the most unspoiled natural areas on the Costa Barcelona, a real natural paradise next to the sea, and just a stone’s throw from the Catalan capital, boasting a diversity of flora and fauna that’s hard to match anywhere else in the Mediterranean. Here are just four of the many ways to explore these fabulous landscapes:

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.

Switch off from work. Get out of your chair. Put your smartphone away … Look! Just a stone’s throw away from Barcelona, there are a host of natural areas where you can enjoy nature. Among iconic mountains, pine and holm oak forests, peaks overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and quiet valleys, you’re sure to find an inviting setting that will have you reaching for your walking boots and backpack. Welcome to hiker’s paradise!