Pau(Spain) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Besalú, the top boutique choice is Hostal Casa del Bar, a 19th-century mansion transformed into a stylish retreat. Located in the historic Barri Vell district, it features original stone walls, hand-painted tiles, and a central courtyard with a centuries-old olive tree. The hotel hosts weekly live music nights featuring Catalan folk bands and offers private rooftop dinners under the stars. Guests can also join guided evening walks through hidden alleys to discover secret stories of the town’s past. Each room blends antique furniture with modern comforts, and breakfast includes homemade jam, organic milk, and local bread—perfect for immersing in authentic Catalan culture.

Another standout is Hotel Hostal, a minimalist gem near the Romanesque Bridge. Its sleek design contrasts beautifully with the medieval setting, and its terrace overlooks the Riu Fluvià River. The hotel partners with local artisans to offer exclusive workshops like pottery-making and traditional textile weaving, making it ideal for travelers seeking cultural engagement.

The historic Barri Vell district is the best area for hotel stays in Besalú. This UNESCO-listed neighborhood is packed with medieval charm—cobbled streets, colorful facades, and ancient buildings like the Church of Santa Maria and the Municipal Palace. Staying here puts you steps away from the Romanesque Bridge, the Old Town Market, and numerous artisan shops. The area is quiet at night, safe for solo travelers, and perfect for exploring on foot. Most hotels, such as Hostal Casa del Bar and Hotel Hostal, are small, family-run establishments offering personalized service and local insights. You’ll feel like a resident, not just a tourist, enjoying daily life in one of Catalonia’s most preserved medieval towns.

In Besalú, don’t miss the weekly Saturday market in the Plaça Major, where local farmers sell fresh produce, handmade cheeses, and Catalan sausages (salchichón). Try the iconic pa amb tomàquet—bread rubbed with ripe tomatoes and olive oil—served right at the stalls. During summer, join the Festa de la Mare de Déu celebration, featuring traditional Sardana dances, fire rituals, and processions through cobbled lanes. For art lovers, visit the CAV Contemporary Art Center, housed in a striking modernist building that doubles as an exhibition space. Its rotating shows reflect Catalan identity and social change. Evenings often feature poetry readings or acoustic concerts in intimate courtyards—truly unforgettable moments of local soul.

Yes, Besalú has several family-friendly hotels with engaging activities. Palau dels Auzules is a former noble estate turned boutique hotel, featuring a children’s playroom, a fenced garden with climbing frames, and free access to nearby Besalú Zoo—home to native species like Spanish ibex and foxes. The hotel provides child-sized bikes, maps for treasure hunts, and themed breakfasts with fun-shaped pancakes. Another option is Hotel Hostal, which offers a “Family Explorer Kit” including a scavenger hunt guide, local folklore storybook, and a map of hidden historical spots. Kids can participate in cooking classes using local ingredients, turning meals into interactive adventures. Parents appreciate the spacious suites and warm, welcoming staff who make families feel at home.

For couples seeking romance, Casa del Bar Hotel is unmatched. This 18th-century mansion offers private terraces with views of the Plaça Major, heated whirlpool tubs in select rooms, and candlelit dinner setups upon request. The hotel arranges intimate “Whispers of Besalú” tours, where a local guide shares love legends tied to the town’s bridges and alleyways. Enjoy a midnight picnic by the Fluvià River, complete with local wine and handmade chocolates. Morning coffee served in bed with fresh berries and rosemary-infused tea adds a touch of luxury. With no elevators and dim lighting, the ambiance feels timeless—ideal for anniversaries, honeymoons, or quiet escapes from city life.

Yes, many hotels in Besalú provide free or low-cost bicycle rental, especially those in the Barri Vell district. Hostal Casa del Bar and Hotel Hostal both offer electric-assist bikes, child seats, and helmets. Routes include the scenic Girona-Besalú Greenway, a 12-kilometer paved trail along the Fluvià River, perfect for relaxed rides with views of vineyards and old mills. For adventure seekers, the Montseny Mountains trailhead is just 20 minutes away—ideal for mountain biking with panoramic vistas. Some hotels even provide GPS-enabled route maps and voice-guided audio guides, ensuring safety and discovery. Biking is the best way to explore Besalú’s countryside while minimizing carbon footprint.

Besalú hotel breakfasts highlight authentic Catalan ingredients. Expect freshly baked brioche de Barcelona, topped with local honey, organic yogurt, and homemade tomato bread (pa amb tomàquet). There’s also aged Iberian ham (jamón serrano), Catalan cheese platters, and seasonal fruits like citrus and figs. Many hotels source from nearby farms or the Saturday market, emphasizing freshness and sustainability. Some even serve fregolles—cornmeal pancakes cooked in cast iron—and orange blossom water croissants. Every bite reflects the region’s rich agricultural heritage and Mediterranean diet philosophy—simple, flavorful, and deeply rooted in tradition.

Nature lovers should hike the Montseny Mountain Trail starting from Besalú—about 30 minutes by bike or car. The path winds through dense forests, past wild lavender fields, and leads to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Girona plains. For a gentler walk, try the Fluvià River Path, a 12-kilometer greenway connecting Besalú to Girona, ideal for families and beginners. Along the way, you’ll pass ancient Roman ruins, old mills, and birdwatching hotspots. If you're up for something more adventurous, the Crimòl Valley Loop offers rugged terrain and hidden chapels. Most hotels provide detailed trail maps, weather alerts, and emergency kits—making outdoor exploration safe and rewarding.

Yes, most Besalú hotels accommodate multilingual guests. Staff at Hostal Casa del Bar, Hotel Hostal, and Palau dels Auzules speak English, Spanish, Catalan, and basic Mandarin. All guest communications—menus, brochures, and check-in forms—are available in multiple languages. The concierge can assist with HopeGoo guided tours, arranging transportation, or reserving tickets to cultural events like the Sardana dance festival. Some hotels even offer smart translation devices for rent, helping guests navigate local conversations. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family, language barriers won’t hinder your experience in this welcoming medieval town.

Besalú comes alive at night with charming traditions. Every evening, Plaça Major hosts acoustic sets by local musicians playing Catalan folk songs or jazz. On weekends, the Night of the Old Town event lights up cobblestone alleys with lanterns, and bars offer special drinks like sangría and limonada de menta. Don’t miss the Sardana dance workshop—a group circle dance taught by professional dancers, often held under the stars. The CAV Art Center also hosts late-night exhibitions with ambient lighting and soundscapes, creating immersive artistic experiences. Evenings in Besalú are quiet but vibrant—a perfect blend of history, music, and mystery.