Besalú
Besalú
Besalú is a stunning medieval town in the Catalonia region of Spain, approximately 30 kilometers from Girona. This small but captivating place transports visitors back in time with its remarkably preserved medieval architecture and stone streets that echo with centuries of history.
The town's most iconic feature is its impressive 12th-century Romanesque bridge spanning the Fluvià River. With seven arches and a unique angular design, it serves as the grand entrance to the old town. The Jewish quarter, with its restored mikveh (ritual bath) from the 12th century, stands as a testament to the town's significant Jewish heritage before the expulsion in 1492.
Walking through Besalú feels like stepping into a living museum. The Monastery of Sant Pere, the Hospital de Sant Julià, and the Casa Cornellà are just a few highlights worth exploring. The town's layout, with its fortified entrance, narrow winding streets, and stone buildings, has barely changed in hundreds of years.
Besalú isn't just about old stones and history though. Today, it's a vibrant small community where local Catalan traditions blend with tourism. The main plaza comes alive during market days, and the town hosts several medieval festivals throughout the year where locals dress in period costumes. Despite its small size (with only about 2,400 residents), Besalú packs an incredible historical punch that makes it a standout destination in northern Catalonia.
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Things to do in Besalú
Top things to do in Besalú by theculturetrip.com
Where to stay in Besalú
Best hotels in Besalú:
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Hotel 3 Arcs (budget hotel)
Hotel 3 Arcs is steps away from the iconic Three Arches bridge and the main square, making it super convenient for exploring this historic gem.
The rooms have a modern, clean design with comfy beds and all the essentials like AC, WiFi and satellite TV. Some rooms even offer nice views of the surrounding mountains. While not huge, the rooms are cozy and well-appointed.
The staff here gets lots of praise for being friendly and helpful. Guests love the central location and how easy it is to walk everywhere in town. It's a great base for checking out Besalú's winding streets, shops and restaurants. Just keep in mind that with the prime location, you may hear some street noise at times. Overall, it's a solid choice for experiencing the charm of this medieval Catalan town.
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Els Jardins De La Martana (medium range hotel)
Els Jardins De La Martana is a charming hotel located right next to Besalú's famous Romanesque bridge. The prime spot puts you steps away from exploring the medieval old town.
The rooms are comfortable and well-equipped, with amenities like TVs, minibars and free Wi-Fi. Many offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. A highlight is the cozy lounge with a fireplace - perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
Breakfast here is a real treat, with a wide variety of options to start your day off right. The staff are known for being super friendly and helpful with local tips. With its unbeatable location and warm hospitality, Els Jardins De La Martana makes for an ideal base to soak in the historic charm of Besalú.
book now on booking.com