There are weekend getaways near Barcelona that are  worth visiting. Discover History, nature and the Mediterranean coast in these close spots.

Spending a few days in Barcelona? Living here? Take advantage of its privileged geographical location to discover some of the most overwhelming nature landscapes of Catalonia. Moreover, you can enjoy interesting spots that are less than an hour of the city, like Gaudi’s unknown masterpiece or Montserrat ’s rocky landscape.

Colonia Güell

Located in Santa Coloma de Cervellò, this industrial colony hides of Gaudi’s best kept secrets. Catalan entrepreneur Eusebi Güell made it built in 1890 to keep his workers away from the revolts that were shaking the factories of Catalonia. In order to guarantee their comfort, he assigned several Modernist architects to build a school, a hospital and the staff houses. He entrusted Gaudi, his protegée, to design a crypt. There were no limits. In that way, he applied the techniques he would later use in Sagrada Familia. A perfect getaway to enjoy in family or friends just 40 minutes by train from Espanya station.

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Gaudi’s crypt in Colonia Güell, a World Heritage Site.

 

Cardona

A trip that brings together History and adventure. First, because it is a Medieval village that preserves an astonishing castle from the IX Century. Second, because of its Salt Mountain, one of the most impressive in Europe. Immerse yourself 86 meters underground to visit its galleries and admire stalactites and stalagmites. An Indiana Jones experience.

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Cardona’s Salt Mountain.

 

Monastery of Montserrat

The most impressive thing about Montserrat Abbey is not it’s rocky landscape, but its History and spirituality. In the Basilica rests La Moreneta (the color lady), the Virgin of Catalonia. It is said some shepherds found her in the ninth century and that the Bishop of Manresa wanted to move the sculpture to his city. The figure became so heavy that nobody was able to lift it. That’s why she stayed in Montserrat.

In 1940 Heinrich Himmler, Hitler’s right-hand man, visited the Monastery to seek the Holy Grail. He didn’t find it. If interest in one of these trips, have a look to these combined tours.

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Montserrat Rocky landscape, in Catalonia.

 

Sitges

Take the most of the good weather to lose yourself in the streets of this Mediterranean town, where there’s always something to do. Have a bath in San Sebastian or Terramar beaches before everyone thinks the same. Then, relax having a walk through its popular promenade. One of those getaways near Barcelona to chill out and forget about stress.

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Sitges, in Costa Daurada (Catalonia).

 

Port Aventura

A perfect plan for all ages… Who says no a theme park? It’s impossible not having fun in Port Aventura. Live its rides, water attractions, roller coasters and, for the bravest ones, a catapult and a free fall. To complete the experience, there are shows, circus, live music and Ferrariland, car lover’s favorite place.

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Port Aventura.

 

Camí de Ronda route

A 130 kilometres walking tour through the most impressive spots of Costa Brava’s seaside. Don’t worry, you can have this path in sections. The most popular ones are around Lloret de Mar, from Cala Sa Tuna (Begur) to Playa del Racó (Pals) and from Calella de Palafrugell to Llafranc.

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Camí de Ronda section | Source: www.camideronda.com

 

Rupit and Pruit

This municipality in the Osona region stands out for its Medieval town and the surrounding nature. The must see place are the Fosar street stone stairs, Els Molins waterfall and its suspension bridge.

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Medieval village of Rupit y Pruit, in Catalonia| Source: www.wallpaperswide.com