A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Santa Pau: Discover the Medieval Beauty of this Charming Village

Santa Pau is a picturesque medieval village located in the region of La Garrotxa, in the province of Girona, Catalonia. Surrounded by a stunning natural environment, this place is perfect for lovers of history, architecture, and nature.

The Castle of Santa Pau

One of the main attractions of Santa Pau is its imposing castle, which dates back to the 13th century. This castle, built on top of a hill, offers spectacular panoramic views of the surroundings. Moreover, inside it houses the Regional Museum of La Garrotxa, where you can learn more about the history and culture of the region.

The Main Square

Another place of interest in Santa Pau is the Main Square, a charming space surrounded by medieval houses and arcades. Here you can enjoy the tranquility of the environment while relaxing on one of the terraces of the local restaurants and bars. In addition, the square is the starting point of many hiking routes that will lead you to discover the natural landscapes of the area.

The Church of Santa Maria

The Church of Santa Maria is another highlight of Santa Pau. This Gothic church, built in the 14th century, has an impressive facade and an interior full of architectural details. Moreover, from its bell tower, you can enjoy panoramic views of the entire town.

The Surroundings of Santa Pau

The surroundings of Santa Pau also offer numerous options for nature lovers. The Natural Park of the Volcanic Zone of La Garrotxa is one of the main attractions of the region, with more than 40 volcanoes and a wide variety of trails to explore. In addition, you can visit the famous Beech Forest of Jordá, a beech forest that offers a spectacle of colors in autumn.

In summary, Santa Pau is a tourist destination that perfectly combines the medieval beauty of its old town with the spectacularity of its natural environment. If you are looking for a quiet and charming place to enjoy a vacation, do not hesitate to visit Santa Pau.

Gastronomic Products of Santa Pau

• Santa Pau Fesols

  The Santa Pau fesols are a variety of white beans native to the La Garrotxa region, where the town of Santa Pau is located. These beans are highly valued for their soft and creamy texture, as well as their delicate flavor. They are used in numerous traditional dishes of the area, such as the cassola de fesols, a bean stew with meat and vegetables.

• Local Sausages

  Excellent artisanal sausages are produced in Santa Pau and its surroundings. The fuet and the longaniza are particularly noteworthy, which are made with high-quality pork meat and seasoned with natural spices. These sausages are slowly cured and acquire an intense and delicious flavor. They are ideal to enjoy as an appetizer or as part of a sausage dish.

• Local Cheeses

  High-quality artisanal cheeses are produced in the surroundings of Santa Pau. Goat cheeses are particularly noteworthy, which are made with milk from goats raised in the area. These cheeses have a soft and creamy flavor, and can be found in different varieties, such as fresh cheese, semi-cured cheese, and cured cheese. They are ideal to taste with bread or as part of a cheese board.

Sports Activities in Santa Pau, Spain

Hiking

Santa Pau is located in the heart of the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, making it an ideal place for hiking. Visitors can explore the trails that wind through the forests and around the extinct volcanoes.

Mountain Biking

With a wealth of trails and rural paths, Santa Pau is a popular destination for mountain biking. Cyclists can enjoy the panoramic views of the countryside as they traverse the trails.

Horse Riding

For a truly unique experience, visitors can opt to explore Santa Pau on horseback. There are several local companies that offer horse riding, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery at a more relaxed pace.

Hot Air Ballooning

For a panoramic view of the Garrotxa volcanic region, visitors can opt for a hot air balloon ride. This activity offers a unique perspective of Santa Pau's stunning landscapes.

Other activities

Discover the activities chosen by JourneyGourmet to make the most of your time in Santa Pau. Whether you're looking for thrilling outdoor adventures or fascinating cultural experiences, each option has been carefully selected to ensure unforgettable moments. Explore our selection with confidence! And for more options, feel free to take a look at Viator

Places near Santa Pau (Spain)

If you are in Santa Pau and wish to explore a bit more, here we present some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Besalú, a charming medieval village in Catalonia, captivates visitors with its impressive Romanesque bridge and historic architecture. Additionally, it delights palates with its delicious local cuisine, featuring traditional dishes such as escudella i carn d'olla and xuixos.

Olot, a gem in the heart of the La Garrotxa region, captivates visitors with its stunning volcanic landscape and exquisite Catalan cuisine. Discover its charming corners, enjoy its traditional dishes, and let yourself be seduced by its welcoming atmosphere.

Rupit, a charming medieval village in Catalonia, transports you to another time with its cobblestone streets and stone houses. In addition to its architectural beauty, you can enjoy the delicious local cuisine, with traditional dishes such as escalivada and grilled lamb.