On this week’s edition of Extraordinary Excursions we are venturing a bit further afield from Barcelona. This day trip will be a long one, but it's a magnificent opportunity to both gain a greater understanding of Catalan culture and to experience the breathtaking natural beauty of the Pyrénées mountains. So strap on your walking shoes and get ready for a trip to the medieval city of Vic and an afternoon of walking amongst the peaks of the Pyrenees!

A visit to the Vall de Nuria is something not to be missed!

Background

Vic is an amazingly well preserved medieval town located approximately 70 kilometers outside of the city of Barcelona. It is located in the Barcelona province and is the capital of its county, Osona. Throughout history, Vic has been an important city of commerce in Catalunya due to its privileged equidistant position between the provincial capitals of Girona and Barcelona. Today, Vic is best known for its exquisite dried meats, sausages and pork products; as well as being the gateway to the majestic Catalan Pyrenees.

What to do

Visit the medieval city's market and sample some of the city's famous pork delicacies. Especially renowned is the fuet, a thin salami-like sausage which is made in the village. Iberian pork products from Vic carry prestige and a premium price in Barcelona and other cities in Spain. Check out the Museu de la Pell (literally the Leather Museum), which is a unique museum which focuses on the history and production of various types of leathers. Of note is the cathedral, which, though it was consecrated in 1803, features many beautiful classical features. Next, spend the afternoon exploring the Catalan Pyrenees with a dayhike in the beautiful Vall de Nuria. The Vall de Nuria, accessible only by rack railway, is a pristine destination for wilderness activities of all types- including horseback riding, archery, and more.

Where and how

Vic can be reached by Renfe's Rodalies commuter train service. Trains leave from Sants station, as well as Plaza Catalunya, and take about 1 hour and a half. To reach the Vall de Nuria continue past Vic on the train until you arrive to Ribes de Freser. Here you will find the terminus of the rack railway which ascends several kilometers into the valley. To reach Ribes de Freser takes about 2 hours by train from Barcelona. Be sure to check the website of Renfe and of the rack railway for timetables, as they vary according to season (in winter Vall de Nuria is a popular ski resort).

The most convenient way to reach Vic and Vall de Nuria is by private vehicle. From Barcelona, the trip takes only about 1 hour by car. Our affiliate, Viator, offers a fully guided small-group excursion at an affordable price. This trip includes in the price round trip transport in a private van, a tour guide, and a ticket for the rack railway in Vall de Nuria. Book your trip today and an apartment in Barcelona to come home to after a long day of adventure and exploration in the mountains of Catalunya!