Why Visit Peratallada-Pals And Monells
Historic Peratallada, Monells & Pals: Perfect Day Trip to Medieval Catalonia
On this day trip, we will visit three beautiful villages — Peratallada, Monells, and Pals — approximately 90 minutes from Blanes.
Peratallada, nestled in the province of Girona in Catalonia, Spain, is a true gem. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, and its beauty is sure to leave you in awe.
After a day of exploration, you can indulge in the local cuisine at one of the many charming restaurants in these villages, offering a delightful mix of traditional Catalan dishes and modern culinary delights.
Whether you’re based in Girona, the Costa Brava, Blanes, or even Barcelona (with an early start), rest assured that these villages are conveniently located for a memorable day trip into the rustic soul of the Catalan countryside.
By Car: Recommended — easiest access.
The journey from Barcelona takes about 1.5 hours, but this can vary depending on road conditions and traffic.
And 90 minutes from Blanes.
If you have time, you can visit Peratallada with a short visit to the neighbouring town of Pals (only about 10 minutes away).
Pals to Monelss. Driving time is 20 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic and your route.
-Morning: Get Lost in Time in Peratallada
We began our day in Peratallada, one of Spain’s best-preserved medieval towns. The name literally means “carved stone,” and it’s easy to see why.
The unique architecture of ancient walls, narrow cobblestone alleys, and ivy-draped stone houses, each with its own story to tell, makes it feel like stepping into a fairytale, a world waiting to be explored.
Wandering around here is the main attraction. There are no museums or flashy sights – just a serene beauty that envelops you, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
We strolled through the stone archways, peeked into artisan boutiques, and admired the climbing flowers spilling over the centuries-old balconies.
For breakfast, we grabbed coffee and a pastry at a small terrace café in the central square – utterly peaceful, with hardly a tourist in sight, making us feel as if we had the town to ourselves, as if we were part of its history.
Tip: Arrive before 11 am to enjoy the quiet before the tour buses arrive. The best time to visit is in spring or fall, when the weather is mild, and the town is less crowded.
-Mid Day: History in Pals
Make a brief stop at Pals, a charmingly restored hilltop town that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Empordà plains.
Pals, slightly larger and more visited than the other two, still exudes a serene elegance. The historic centre, with its steep & uneven streets, cobbles, and steps, invites you to a peaceful stroll, requiring only moderate effort from the parking lot to your destination.
Sant Pere: Església de Sant Pere is a Romanesque church dating back to the 10th century. It is renowned for its unique bell tower, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The church is a key feature of Pals’ historic center, which features cobblestone streets and well-preserved medieval architecture.
We walked up to the Torre de les Hores (Clock Tower), explored the Gothic Quarter, and browsed some lovely shops selling ceramics, olive oil, and handmade linens. Don’t miss the lookout point — you can see all the way to the Medes Islands on a clear day.
-Midday: Lunch & Laid-Back in Monells
A short 15-minute drive brought us to Monells, a hidden gem with a postcard-perfect medieval square: Plaça Jaume I. You might recognize it from the Spanish film Ocho Apellidos Catalanes, but it’s still blissfully off the beaten path, adding to its charm and allure as a treasure waiting to be discovered.
The square, with its stone arcades and charming restaurants, was a delightful spot for lunch. We indulged in a menu del día (daily set menu) that featured fresh seafood and a glass of the finest local wine — an authentic taste of Catalonia.
After our meal, we leisurely wandered through the tranquil backstreets of Monells, where the only sounds were the rustling leaves and our own footsteps, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
Monells is not just about the sights; it’s about the unique atmosphere it exudes. This village beckons you to savour its charm at a leisurely pace, allowing you to appreciate its beauty fully.
Personal Insight:
A day exploring Peratallada, Monells, and Pals is like stepping back in time — a time without the stress of crowds or rush, where you can truly relax and enjoy the experience.
Each village, with its peaceful, storybook charm, will make you feel relaxed and at ease, inviting you to linger and soak in the tranquillity.
If you’re craving something beyond beaches and big cities in Catalonia, this trio is a must.
Expect to spend around 2 hours in each town.
All are within a 10–15 minute drive of each other.
Don’t forget to bring your camera – every corner of these villages is a picture-perfect moment waiting to be captured.
