Attractions and Places To See around Besalú - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Besalú include historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features. This medieval town in Catalonia, declared a Cultural Heritage Site, is situated on a rocky hill at the confluence of the Fluvià and Capellades rivers. It offers a journey through its well-preserved architecture and proximity to the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Nature Reserve. The region provides diverse landscapes, from river walks to volcanic formations and nearby lakes.
Best attractions and places to see around Besalú
- The most popular attractions is Mare de Déu del Mont Summit, a summit that features a shrine and offers views over the Garrotxa and Pyrenees. It is known for being a long climb with rewarding scenery.
- Another must-see spot is Marimón Fishery, a man-made monument and historical site. This building dates from 1874 and is one of the larger fishing structures in Banyoles.
- Visitors also love Pont Vell of Besalú, a Romanesque bridge over the Fluvià river. This 12th-century bridge has seven arches and a fortified access portal, serving as a gateway to the town.
- Besalú is known for its historical bridges, medieval architecture, and natural landscapes. These attractions offer a variety of experiences, from exploring ancient structures to enjoying views of the surrounding natural environment.
- The attractions around Besalú are appreciated by the komoot community. With more than 400 upvotes and over 100 photos, these spots offer diverse experiences.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Lake Banyoles
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Lake Banyoles (Estany de Banyoles)
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Marimón Fishery
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Pont Vell of Besalú
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Mare de Déu del Mont Summit
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Besalú.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Besalú
Tips from the Community
(CAT) Banyoles is consolidated as a sports tourism destination taking advantage of the privileged natural environment it enjoys and demonstrating its infrastructure and management capacity. It generates an important dynamic of sports and tourism activity derived from sports events and stadiums with a large flow of visitors linked to sports. (ESP) Banyoles is consolidating itself as a sports tourism destination by taking advantage of the privileged natural environment it has and demonstrating its infrastructure and management capacity. It generates an important dynamic of sports and tourism activity derived from sports events and stays with a large flow of visitors linked to sports. (ENG) Banyoles consolidates as a sports tourism destination by taking advantage of the privileged natural surroundings it enjoys and demonstrating its infrastructure and management capabilities. It generates an important dynamic of sports and tourism activity derived from events and sports stays with a high flow of visitors linked to sports. (EN) Banyoles is consolidating itself as a sports tourist destination by taking advantage of the privileged natural environment from which it benefits and by demonstrating its infrastructure and management capabilities. It generates an important dynamic of sports and tourism activity from sports events and stays with a large influx of sports-related visitors.
0
0
A beautiful old and historic village. The bridge is sensational. The place has often served as a film set. The narrow streets and everything around it are simply impressive. Definitely worth a visit.
6
0
... only a few meters away there is a parking lot, this is also designated for mobile homes, absolutely recommended for an overnight stay, waste disposal is available!!!!!
0
0
The bridge is the landmark of the town and offers a picturesque access to the old town.
0
0
Splendid. Walk around the pond, almost entirely shaded. No difficulty, accessible to children, whether on foot or by bike. Possibility of supervised swimming.
2
0
Lots of cafes to choose from but I recommend Aquarium!
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in Besalú?
Besalú is rich in history. You can explore the iconic Pont Vell of Besalú, a 12th-century Romanesque bridge with seven arches and a fortified tower. Wander through the arcaded streets and squares, including Plaça de la Llibertat, and see the foundations of the 10th-century Besalú Castle. Other notable sites include the ancient Rocafort Gate and Casa Cornellà, a fine example of Romanesque civil architecture.
Are there any significant cultural or religious sites in Besalú?
Yes, Besalú offers several cultural and religious sites. The remarkably preserved Call Jueu (Jewish Quarter) features a unique 12th-century underground Mikveh, a ritual Jewish bathhouse. You can also visit the sturdy Romanesque Monastery Church of Saint Peter, founded in 977, and the small 12th-century Saint Vincent Church, which combines Romanesque and Gothic elements and is believed to hold remains of the True Cross.
What natural attractions are there near Besalú?
Beyond the town, Besalú is situated on the edge of the spectacular La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Nature Reserve, offering numerous walking routes through diverse landscapes with volcanic cones and lava flows. The Fluvià River runs through the town, providing pleasant walks along its banks. A short distance away, you'll find Lake Banyoles, the largest non-coastal lake in Catalonia, perfect for nature lovers and walks.
What outdoor activities can I do around Besalú?
The region around Besalú is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for various sports. For running, explore trails like the 'Medieval streets of Besalú' loop. Mountain biking options include routes around Lake Banyoles or the 'Pueblo medieval de Besalú' circular route. Road cyclists can tackle challenging climbs like the 'Mare de Déu del Mont Summit' loop. You can find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for Running Trails around Besalú, MTB Trails around Besalú, and Road Cycling Routes around Besalú.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in Besalú?
Yes, Besalú offers several family-friendly options. The Pont Vell of Besalú is a captivating landmark for all ages. Exploring the medieval streets and the Jewish Quarter can be an engaging experience. Additionally, Lake Banyoles, with its bike lane and opportunities for swimming, is a great spot for families. The Marimón Fishery, a historical man-made monument, is also suitable for families.
What is the Mare de Déu del Mont Summit known for?
The Mare de Déu del Mont Summit is known for its shrine and offers expansive views over the Garrotxa region and the Pyrenees. It's a challenging but rewarding climb, popular with cyclists, and features a restaurant/café at the top with a wonderful outdoor terrace to enjoy the scenery.
Can I find unique historical bridges near Besalú?
Absolutely. Besides the famous Pont Vell of Besalú, you can also visit the impressive Llierca Bridge. This Romanesque bridge, built between the 13th and 14th centuries, spans 52 meters and is situated 28 meters above the water, offering stunning views of the river and rock pools below.
What do visitors enjoy most about Besalú?
Visitors frequently praise Besalú's well-preserved medieval ambiance, particularly the impressive Pont Vell and the charm of its narrow, historic streets. The town's rich history, combined with its proximity to natural beauty like the Fluvià River and the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone, offers a diverse and captivating experience.
Is there a place to swim near Besalú?
Yes, Lake Banyoles, located a short distance from Besalú, offers opportunities for swimming, particularly from June onwards. It's a popular spot for both locals and visitors to enjoy the water and surrounding natural environment.
What is the Marimón Fishery?
The Marimón Fishery is a significant man-made monument and historical site located in Banyoles. Dating back to 1874, it is one of the larger and more striking fishing structures in the area, reflecting the region's historical connection to its waters.
Are there any museums in Besalú?
Yes, Besalú is home to Circusland, a museum dedicated to the circus, located in Prat de Sant Pere Square. This museum offers a unique cultural experience for those interested in the history and artistry of the circus.
What is the best way to experience the medieval atmosphere of Besalú?
The best way to experience Besalú's medieval atmosphere is by simply strolling through its narrow, cobbled streets and arcaded squares. Start by crossing the Pont Vell into the town, then explore the Plaça de la Llibertat, the Jewish Quarter, and admire the Romanesque architecture of buildings like Casa Cornellà.
Most popular attractions around Besalú
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
