Catalonia is often equated with Barcelona’s buzzing streets and iconic architecture, but beyond the city lies a region full of hidden gems and rich contrasts that many travellers overlook.

Inland, medieval towns like Besalú and Vic reveal a slower pace of life, with cobbled streets, Romanesque churches, and vibrant local markets. The volcanic landscapes of La Garrotxa are ideal for hiking and discovering secluded villages surrounded by forests and ancient lava flows.

To the north, the Pyrenees offer dramatic mountain scenery, with opportunities for skiing in winter and walking or wild swimming in summer. Remote Romanesque churches dot the valleys, and shepherd culture still thrives. In contrast, the southern region of Terres de l’Ebre offers wetlands, rice fields, and birdlife — a world away from tourist routes.

Catalonia’s cultural depth is also found in its traditions: human towers (castells), fire-running festivals (correfocs), and a distinct language and cuisine. Whether you’re sampling calçots at a countryside masia or exploring surrealist art in Dalí’s hometown of Figueres, Catalonia rewards those who look beyond the obvious.