Discover your perfect stay in Macanet de la Selva.
Discover the most iconic attractions in Macanet de la Selva
Find the perfect place to stay in Macanet de la Selva



Questions You Might Need to Know About Traveling to Macanet de la Selva
Staying at Hotel Rural Els Pinyos offers access to authentic Catalan culture, including guided visits to the Montserrat Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site just 15 minutes away. The monastery’s dramatic cliffside location and rich history of art and spirituality provide deep insight into Catalonia’s religious and artistic legacy.
Guests can also join local workshops on traditional Catalan stone carving and wheat-based cuisine, hosted by nearby artisans. For nature lovers, hiking trails through the Serra de Montserrat lead to hidden chapels and panoramic views of the Pyrenees. These immersive experiences highlight the region’s blend of spiritual heritage and rural craftsmanship, making it ideal for culturally curious travelers.
The best area for tranquil, scenic stays is the hillside zone overlooking the Selva Valley, where several eco-friendly rural lodges are nestled among olive groves and pine forests. This region offers peaceful retreats like Casa Rural Masia dels Àngels, featuring traditional Catalan stonework and wooden beams.
It’s perfectly positioned—just a 10-minute walk to the village center, yet far enough from noise to enjoy uninterrupted mountain views. Guests can wake up to mist rising over the valley and spend evenings under starlit skies. Ideal for those seeking serenity, natural beauty, and proximity to cultural landmarks like the Montserrat Monastery.
Yes, Hotel Rural Els Pinyos is perfect for families, offering a dedicated children’s play area, outdoor games, and nature trails leading to the Selva River. Kids can enjoy water play and wildlife spotting along the stream.
Each Saturday features a "Little Farmer Day," where children learn to plant vegetables, make cheese, and care for farm animals—hands-on experiences rooted in Catalan rural traditions. Parents can unwind with yoga sessions or wine tastings, creating a balanced, enriching stay for all ages.
Visit the Mercat de Mas-Sanez to taste regional dishes like Cassola de Sant Joan (a hearty goat stew) and roast suckling pig, made with locally raised livestock and wild herbs. For deeper immersion, join a family kitchen workshop where local women teach how to prepare Crema Catalana and Salmorejo (cold tomato soup).
Some hotels, such as Casa Rural Masia dels Àngels, offer themed dinners titled "Taste of History," narrating Catalonia’s agrarian past and wartime stories through food. Each course reflects centuries-old traditions, blending flavor, memory, and cultural identity into a memorable dining journey.
Top cultural attractions include the Montserrat Monastery, a 11th-century sanctuary carved into the cliffs, renowned for its mysterious Black Virgin statue and the famed Catalan Choir. Nearby, the Monastery Stone Carving Museum displays hundreds of sculptures from local quarries, showcasing medieval craftsmanship.
The Selva Valley Trail connects ancient villages and stone bridges, passing Gothic churches and abandoned farms. During summer, the Mountain Music Festival draws international artists and audiences, blending traditional folk songs with contemporary sounds—a vibrant celebration of Catalan heritage and community spirit.
Yes, hotels like Hotel Rural Els Pinyos provide professional guided tours led by local historians and retired educators. They offer customized excursions to the Montserrat Monastery, Stone Carving Museum, and historic villages, with multilingual guides available in English and Chinese.
Tours include private transportation, detailed commentary on Catalan religion, language evolution, and agricultural traditions. Additional options include hiking tour packages with maps, guidebooks, and first-aid kits for independent exploration. Specialized itineraries such as photography tours and food discovery walks are also available upon request.
Massanet de la Selva is a charming small town in Catalonia, Spain, nestled in the mountains of Girona province. Known for its natural beauty and traditional culture, it is surrounded by lush forests and stunning mountain views, making it an ideal retreat from urban noise. The town retains a strong Catalan vibe, with historic buildings and cobbled streets that captivate visitors. It is also a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, cycling, and climbing.
Must-see attractions include Santa Maria de Massanet, a Romanesque church with rich history and architectural details. Pont de Sant Antoni, a historic bridge crossing a scenic stream, is another highlight. Nearby Montseny Natural Park offers numerous hiking trails to explore local flora and fauna. The town's Friday market is perfect for experiencing local life.
The cuisine in Massanet de la Selva reflects Catalan traditions. Try Escudella i carn d'olla (a hearty meat stew) and Botifarra (Catalan sausage). Local restaurants also serve mountain specialties like roasted lamb and wild mushrooms. For dessert, don't miss Crema Catalana (Catalan crème brûlée). Traditional bars and eateries offer authentic rustic flavors.
As a mountainous town, public transport is limited. Driving is recommended; it takes about 1.5-2 hours from Barcelona or Girona. The town center is walkable, but some hikes may require a car or guided tour. Trains connect to nearby towns, with buses or taxis for the final leg. Note that mountain roads are winding—drive cautiously.
Best times to visit are spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October), when the weather is mild and crowds are thinner. Summer can be warm with occasional storms, while winter is colder, with some sites closed. Avoid holidays for a quieter experience.
Language: Catalan and Spanish are primary; English is understood in tourist areas. Internet: Wi-Fi is available downtown, but signal may be spotty in the mountains. Payment: Cards work in most restaurants/hotels, but small shops prefer cash. Emergencies: The nearest hospital is in Girona—travel insurance is recommended. Local pharmacies handle minor health issues. Some services may close during holidays, so plan ahead.