Friday 14 August 2015

Day 634 - 09/07/2015 : Seu d'Urgell, Olympic Channel

Catalonia may be very proud about organizing the First Modern Olympic Games in 1992, indeed, the event that the southern neighbor hasn't able to organize yet, causing our revelry.

One of the main headquarters in 1992 was located in La Seu d'Urgell, specifically due to the existence of 'The Parc Olímpic del Segre'. The park was constructed in a branch of the river Segre, which was re-channelled after the damage caused by the exceptional flood of 1982.

The games were a landmark on the support of canoe slalom by La Seu, it were an unforgettable time for the village.

It's worth a walk around it, you can't miss it !




Thursday 13 August 2015

Day 633 - 08/07/2015 : La Seu D'Urgell

La Seu d'Urgell  is the main town located in the Catalan Pyrenees. It is also the capital of Alt Urgell comarca, head of the judicial district of la Seu d'Urgell and the seat of Bishop of Urgell, one of the Andorra co-princes.


It is located at the confluence of the Segre and the Valira rivers. The city is in the local region of Urgellet, a Pyrenean region formed by 16 municipalities of Alt Urgell. Urgellet and Andorra were the originary County of Urgell with capital in la Seu d'Urgell before the county expansion to the south.



Being the Cathedral the most relevant building in the town, the Parc Olímpic del Segre, built in 1992 for the Barcelona Summer Olympic Games, is also a relevant sight with a pump-driven canoe and kayak sports venue located adjacent to the historical centre of la Seu d'Urgell.

Would you like to visit it?


Day 632 - 07/07/2015 : Stunning Cadi from CastellCiutat

Castellciutat is a village that belongs to la Seu d'Urgell (Alt Urgell, Catalonia), in fact, it's the first neighborhood you will find coming from the South from where you may take beautiful Cadi's range pictures.

In the past it was called Ciutat (City in English) but is now called either Ciutat or Castellciutat. It has a population of 451 inhabitants.

There is an old castle, Castell de Ciutat (Castle of the City), which gives its name to the village.

Lovely mountains !



Day 631 - 06/07/2015 : El Pla de Sant Tirs

This tiny village can be seen just before the crossroad between C-14 and N-260 in Adrall, being remarkable in winter the color's contrast with Cadi range snowed in the background.

In fact, the village belongs to Ribera d'Urgellet and curiously, it's the only one in the are which has increased their population in last year due to new house's construction.

Let's continue on road !


Day 630 - 05/07/2015 : Organyà

We continued driving in a spectacular landscape provided by Pyrenees area. Organyà belongs also to Alt Urgell in Catalonia and it is situated on the right bank of the Segre river below the Trespons gorge, and is served by the C-14 road between Ponts and La Seu d'Urgell.

There are few remarkable hiking routes starting at the town, for instance 'Ruta dels Dòlmens' and 'Ruta de Sant Fe' the known is widely known by being referenced in Homilies d'Organyà, one of the oldest known literary documents (longer than a mere fragment) in the Catalan language.

The original is kept in the National Library of Catalonia, and a reproduction is also displayed in Organyà.

Enjoy your read!


Monday 20 July 2015

Day 629 - 04/07/2015 : Coll de Nargó

After our unforgettably driving on C-14 road crossing mountains and reservoirs we reached Coll de Nargó, the first town we came across in Alt Urgell shire.

It is situated in the Segre valley by the Oliana reservoir. The municipality is served by the C-14 road between Ponts and La Seu d'Urgell, the L-511 road to Isona and the L-401 road to Sant Llorenç de Morunys.

 We missed to visit Sant Climent Church, a beautiful Romanesque church located outside the town. Instead of this, we visited Sant Martí's church.

But, if you are coming with children visiting the dinosaur site at Coll de Nargó is a must. It's one 
of the three most important and promising sites of its kind in the world. The area includes footmarks, fossilised vegetal and animal remains, and dinosaur eggs and nests.

Amazing !!!


Day 628 - 03/07/2015 : Oliana's reservoir

Following C-14 road to the North you will be skirting Oliana's reservoir, it's majestic, extremely big but we weren't lucky in that time because we saw it almost empty.

It was March's beginning and the snow coming to Pyrenees hadn't started yet to melt. Anyway, we were able to admire curious panoramas as you can see today. An old run-down house can be see in the middle of the reservoir giving us a stunning picture, finally it was worth it to drive on that day.

Who would be living in that ghost town?


Day 627 - 02/07/2015 :Oliana's dam

After leaving Oliana by C-14 road and crossing Segre's bridge don't miss to stop the car in the border to admire such a fantastic building: Oliana's dam.

Climbing up C-14 is a must in your Catalonia trip, not only will be seeing you the remarkable Pyrenees in the background but also the majestic Segre and their reservoirs.

Oliana reservoir is one of the biggest in Catalonia and may be the most panoramic. Being built in 1956 and inaugurated in 1959, it wasn't able to store all the Segre capacitance therefore it was need to built Rialb reservoir, which is just below Oliana.

Enjoy your route !



Sunday 12 July 2015

Day 626 - 01/07/2015 :Rialb's reservoir

Leaving Solsona by C-26 road you will be reaching Rialb's reservoir after 45 minutes or so. It's the first Segre reservoir you will encounter if you are traveling to La Seu and Alt Urgell shire by C-14 road.

Rialb reservoir lies beneath Tiurana, bounded by the mountains of Peramola, Oliana, Bassella, Baronia del Rialb, Ponts and Tiurana itself. Fed by the River Segre, the Rialb, which gives it its name, and the Ribera Salada and surrounded by beautiful forests climbing the slopes of the hills and mountains, where you can see various hermitages and farmhouses, all of them very old, it forms a magnificent natural landscape.

Rialb reservoir is becoming a fantastic place known for its beauty. Its surroundings also allow you to enjoy adventure sports, such as canoeing, rafting, ravining or fishing. For all these reasons and more, a visit to the area with family or friends is an unbeatable way of relaxing or burning off adrenalin.

Have a rest and enjoy nature !


Day 625 - 30/06/2015 :Solsona's panorama from Castellvell

Castevell is governing Solsona and surroundings. From this historical place you may take a wonderful panorama from Solsones shire's and Pyrenees range.

Being located 130 meters above Solsona it's possible to see Montserrat looking to the South, Montseny to the East, Torregassa's range to the West and finally Port de Compte and Casi to the North.

It's really worthy the visit because you can admire also the relevant building which was built in the 13th Century and extended during the Baroque age in 17th Century.

 Now, moving to another Catalan shire, see you tomorrow !


Day 624 - 29/06/2015 : C-149 road to CastellVell

Solsona's surroundings are nicer as the town is and one of this sights may be found going to CastellVell. Belonging to Olius the road to this slope is itself amazing: spring colors were remarkable while we started to see the building in the background.

The emblematic Castellvell (old castle), which is an essential part of the Solsona landscape, and gives visitors a panoramic view of the town and its surrounding area is definitely a must even you plan only to stay one day in Solsona, then, don't miss to include in your diary.

Lovely !


Day 623 - 28/06/2015 : Solsona's St Joan square

Looking into Solsona's medieval town we will face the stunning St Joan square, which may be consider the center of the town.

In the middle of the square there is a fountain dating back to the 15th century, which was previously called the Main Fountain. The chapel built above it is dedicated to Saint John (18th century). There is also a plaque inscribed with the poem Record de Solsona (Memory of Solsona) written by the poet Josep M. de Sagarra.

House number 1 in the square is Cal Cabanes, an ancestral home belonging to one of the main families in Solsona.

Amazing !


Day 622 - 27/06/2015 : Solsona's Cathedral indoors

Obviously, once you are in Solsona and you've entered into the medieval city the first thing to do may be visiting the Cathedral.

You have to consider the following timetable:

9.00 am -1.00 pm and 4.00 pm- 8.00 pm
Holidays: 8.00 am -1.00 pm and 4.00 pm – 6.00 pm

 The door leading out into the Church square is a neo-classical design (1780) with a relief of Saint Augustine in ecstasy. And in the Palace square there is a Baroque façade of the Assumption (1769). The Episcopal Palace is in the same square.

Enjoy your visit !


Day 621 - 26/06/2015 : Solsona's Cathedral

Solsona's cathedral is the main church of the bishopric. This monument stands not only for its religious meaning, but also for its cultural and artistic heritage.

From the early Romanesque church (1070-1163) still remain the three apses, the bell tower, the cloister, the cellar and the canon’s dining hall, which is currently the Hall of the Holy Martyrs. The current cathedral is an example of Gothic architecture, and it was started at the end of the 13th century and completed in the 17th century. To the left of the transept, there is the Chapel of La Mercè, with a Baroque altarpiece. To the right, there is a chapel dedicated to the Virgin Claustre, dating from the 12th century, and which is catalogued as one of the most important Catalan Romanesque sculptures.

Undoubtedly, you will get impressed after crossing the bridge !


Day 620 - 25/06/2015 : Fisinh in Sant Ponç reservoir

The Sans Pont Reservoir or "Pantà de Sant Ponç" in Catalan is a reservoir located 104km north west of Barcelona. The reservoir is fed by the River "El Cardener"and it is a stunning place with turquoise clear water which makes it a lovely place to visit let alone fish.

In general the banks are not too steep and there is very good road access right around the water which makes shore fishing possible in many places. The reservoir holds its water well and it never usually falls below 80% of full capacity.

Carp are the primary species although specimen fish are rarely taken from the water. Besides the Carp, Barbel, Pike and Black Bass are also present. 

What about a grilled carp for lunch?


Day 619 - 24/06/2015 : Monserrat from Marganell

You may enjoy fantastic views from Montserrat range in few places, but I strongly recommend going to Marganell in Vallés Occidental and continue on BV-1123 in the way to Manresa.

After leaving the town look at your mirror and stop the car when you admire Montserrat's silhouette in the background. Marganell fields merged with colorful trees growing flowers and the breathtaking range in the background.

It was a bit foggy but we were able to stand up and wait some minutes until we got a clear spot. What do you think about?


Day 618 - 23/06/2015 : Spring colors

If I were you I wouldn't think to go to Japan to see spring colors. From the second half of March Catalonian trees are usually plenty of colorful flowers, giving a chance to photographers to take wonderful.

We hadn't drive too much to find our first spring spot : in our route to Solsona by BV-1123 road we came across with such a beautiful trees plenty of white flowers, may be it were almond or cherry trees, anyway the picture was gorgeous.

In a journey where no odds were on our side to find nice spots, here the first one.

Enjoy !!!


Sunday 5 July 2015

Day 617 - 22/06/2015 : Cerdanya's typical breakfast

Our balloon experience finished with a strong Cerdanya's breakfast consisting in 'trinxat' (the most known dish), fried eggs, sausage, bacon, pork fillet and 'torrezno' (a sort of fried bacon).

It was really delicious and for your information is the common way to finish a flight balloon journey taking into account you will be waking up very early.

Whatever the area you are taking your balloon you will receive a great breakfast based on local product, therefore don't miss it before leaving !

Enjoy your breakfast !




Day 616 - 21/06/2015 : Three and true colors

True colors are beautiful, beautiful, like a rainbow. The lyrics from Phil Collins may inspire today's picture because even being in a cold winter day Cerdanya showed us how beautiful nature is.

While another flight colleague tried to start his trip we continued our fantastic journey without taking eye on the snowed mountains and the bright blue ski.

Cerdanya's fields are starting to growth preparing the end of winter season and the beginning of a productive spring time, we were in the latest February days, therefore we could start to smell the good weather would start soon.

True colors !


Day 615 - 20/06/2015 : Alp, Masella and Molina

Suddenly the wind changed direction and our balloon began to fly to Alp and ski resorts above : Masella and Molina.

The view was breathtaking : Alp's town below, road GI-400 breaking the mountain, green trees climbing up and the distinct ski ways cutting the top of the mountains.

The snowed range is known as Tossa d'Alp and not only is it advisable in winter for the amusement of fool skiers but also in summer for trekking and biking.

Willing to try ballooning?


Day 614 - 19/06/2015 : Puigcerdà from the air

As we told two days ago, our balloon took North way and soon we were above Puigcerdà, which is Cerdanya's capital.

Lake were perfectly distinguished on the left town area, however, looking it from the air Puigcerdà seems tinier than it is.

Behind, French Pyrenees and the blue sky governing all the journey, it was so fantastic. We guessed if going to the South might have been better, but we weren't disappointed at all.

The flight continued, you can't get out now !


Day 613 - 18/06/2015 : Cerdanya's West panorama

While our balloon was leading us to Puigcerdà we took a view to the West getting an unforgettable spot : Cerdanya's shire and Cadí-Moixeró range were governing that clear morning.

The balloons are exceptional balconies where only the sound of our voice breaks the silence of dusk in the valley. The key question is where the best time to fly, the answer is every time.

In this picture, from Alp-Masella range on the left and Cadí-Moixeró in the middle to French Pyrenees on the right, Cerdanya's beauty is fully caught and no one of us were telling any word, only taking pictures !

Amazing !


Day 612 - 17/06/2015 : Greixer from the air

Definitely, air ballooning is an experience you should taste at least one time in your life (probably you will be repeating later !).

In a very cold winter morning in Cerdanya, we were able to surf a bright blue sky admiring such a beautiful panorama. We had North wind therefore our balloon was pushed to Puigcerdà range and we were able to see the tiny tows located in High Cerdanya, as Greixer and Ger.

In fact, Greixer is belonging to Ger, and the tiny town has no more than 40 inhabitants. Located at 1345 above sea level, the most remarkable sight is Sant Climent de Greixer church, which we weren't able to see from the balloon.

We continue flying !




Day 611 - 16/06/2015 : Cerdanya's Alp aerodrome

La Cerdanya Aerodrome welcomes you, whether you fly in or drive to our airfield. If you come flying, we are pleased to offer our refueling service, hangars, and restaurant. If you come by car, you'll enjoy the great variety of aeronautical activities we provide: anything from gliding to hot air ballooning, private pilot courses, ultralight flights, and much more.

In our case, we tasted hot air ballooning !!!

Sited between Das and Fontanals, very close to Alp, La Cerdanya Aerodrome's location is perfectly suited for both the practice of aerial sports and to act as the best destination for fly-ins.


On the other hand, La Cerdanya has a particular micro-climate which makes the aerodrome the flying spot with the most sunny days in Europe.

Fly and drive !



Day 610 - 15/06/2015 : Olius Modernism cemetery

Just beside St.Esteve Church in Olius, we can find a Modernism Cemetery designed in 1916 by the architect Bernadi Martorell, who was disciple of Gaudí as we can see with evidence elements as the needle with the upper cross.

The cemetery in endorsed in natural environment with a unstable sole due to the ground and it's taking advantage of natural resources, for instance the stones to make graves.

 The symbolism is shown in the building between the fallen stones, the death's symbol, and the oaks, the life's symbol. Its creativeness and condition made this cemetery an unique place in Catalonia.

Mystic !


Day 609 - 14/06/2015 : St Esteve d'Olius church

St.Esteve d'Olius is a remarkable example of XI Century's Catalan Romanesque, being its crypt the most relevant element.

Just beside we can find the Modernism Cemetery of Bernadí Martorell where the integration between nature and architecture is an unique fact in Catalonia.


The whole are is located 4km from the main road between Solsona and Berga, known as C-26. The church consist in one alone nave and the bell tower has four window in arch shape.

Above the altar it's important to highlight the crypt built in honor of Santa Maria, created from three tiny naves stand out by six different columns.

Enjoy your visit !




Sunday 28 June 2015

Day 608 - 13/06/2015 : Prullans

Prullans is a very picturesque town in Baixa Cerdanya located at the end of a big valley and stepped due to tectonic movements.

Prullans was the origin of 'ceretans', who resisted the Roman domains, in fact, it's said that the name of Prullans came from  a Roman person called 'Braulianus'.

Its location has provoked to be known as 'mirador de la Cerdanya' (Cerdanya viewpoint) due to the spectacular view we may take from Cadi Moixeró range.

Undoubtedly, a place to be aware of its existence !


Day 607 - 12/06/2015 : Bellver old town and Cadí Moixeró

Visitors are invited to take a trip through history. A walk around the historic part of Bellver de Cerdanya, which is also known as the Barri de la Plaça (or Square Quarter) and is the most emblematic part of the hamlet, is like taking a trip back to a time when settlements needed to be surrounded by walls in order to protect them from enemy attack. It is certainly well worth a visit!

You may take a rest in Jaume Vila viewpoint, from where it is possible to enjoy a privileged view of the area of Bellver and Cadi Moixerò range that catches most of the sun; this is rougher and drier than the shaded part of the area.

Are you willing to visit? 


Day 606 - 11/06/2015 : Bellver de Cerdanya

Let's change the town ! Today we will be visiting Bellver de Cerdanya, an open settlement with a long history of welcoming visitors. 

It is an attractive centre for holidaymakers, offering an extensive municipal territory containing fifteen small, picturesque settlements around the hamlet of Bellver. 

The area has several important items of cultural heritage, including the Romanesque architecture of Talló and, and its majestic natural patrimony, which offers a wide variety of ecosystems, including alpine, fluvial, steppe and forest areas. This is an interesting destination to come and explore!

A must !!



Day 605 - 10/06/2015 : Das's St.Julià Church

We came across with this tiny and picturesque church when looking round on Das fields. It was a cold winter morning and we were shocked by the wall colors in opposite to the grey sky and white mountains.

St.Julià is a Romanesque building from 11th Century located in Tartera, a Das hamlet. Nowadays it's closed to pray although it was a parochial church in the past. The first reference is dated on 839 in Seu D'Urgell chart. 

You may take breathtaking Cerdanya panoramas from the ground, don't forget your camera.


Amazing !




Day 604 - 09/06/2015 : Das's St.Llorenç Church

St Llorenç Church is a modern building built in Gothic Revival style with the bell tower above west door, giving a special configuration to embrace visitor's curiosity.

Located at the town center it's the most remarkable sight, having been built in cross shape with side chapels, and stone walls.

The church was rebuilt in 19th Century during a flourishing cultural time in the village due to the influence of remarkable people who were spending summer holidays there, as the journalist Rossend Arús i Arderiu.

Enjoy your visit !



Day 603 - 08/06/2015 : Das's Town Hall

Das is a little village belonging to Cerdanya shire, close to Masella and Molina ski station therefore a chance to visit after your ski activity.

It's located 1200 meters above the sea level and the first building you may encounter when visiting it probably is the old railway station which is the Town Hall nowadays.

Das ground  belonged to Bisbat d'Urgell until 17th Century when the royal power came the new owner. You may listen about the town as a temperature reference in winter, when it's considered one of the coldest town in Catalonia.

Bring your coat, don't forget it !



Wednesday 24 June 2015

Day 602 - 07/06/2015 : Cerdanya's panorama

Cerdanya, a natural Catalan county of excellence, forms a physiographic unity defined by some orographical, climatic and historical features which grant the region a very particular character. Mainly integrated by the higher Valley of the Segre river, Cerdanya is one Europe’s most extended valleys, with a minimum altitude (about 1000 metres), with its east to west orientation, and a high dose of insolation of about 3000 hours of sun exposure a year.

The mountainous shapes the Cadí Mountain Range (occidental half), the Moixeró Mountain Range and other more oriental massifs like the Tossa d’Alp and the Puigllançada, and the Pedraforca massif in the Berguedà region.


Amazing !


Day 601 - 06/06/2015 : Pobla de Lillet and Pedraforca

You might well think that this is the same picture you saw two days ago when we were introducing La Pobla, but it isn't !

Do you see two peeks on the left center area of the picture? Yes, it is, Pedraforca appearance. It wasn't easy to catch because the sky was grey, actually we weren't aware to have caught it until we checked the pictures after our trip.

Beautiful Catalonia forever and ever !


Day 600 - 05/06/2015 : Pobla de Lillet panorama

Oh my God !!! We have reached 600 days and pictures, what we need is to toast for this !

We continue visiting the quiet town of La Pobla and after crossing the old bridge we may catch a stunning picture of the town with Llobregat river governing it.

A stroll through the Old Town of La Pobla de Lillet will give visitors a magical history tour. The narrow cobbled streets invite you to forget about routine, and, from here, you can reach the Güell spring, the old bridge, Plaça del Molí square, the castle and the church.

The views are spectacular and the walk contains surprises such as medieval tales and games about the relationship between man and nature and that between Gaudí, the Catalan Art Nouveau and this town.

Enjoy your visit !


Day 599 - 04/06/2015 : Pobla de Lillet's old bridge

La Pobla de Lillet is a municipality located north of the Berguedà. Having located in the Valley of Lillet about 843m high, it is surrounded by the mountains of Cadi, the Moixerò, Catllaràs saw the Falgars, the range of Moreu, Bruc rocks and mountains Meranges and Tubau Planks.

In La Pobla you may find Artigas Gardens, designed by Antoni Gaudi in the early twentieth century as a thank you to the Artigas family to welcome him home when designing the Catllaràs Chalet.

The Artigas Gardens are a perfect union between nature and architecture in the midst of life in constant motion provided by the Llobregat River, which passes through the middle.

We also find the Old Bridge, the fourteenth century, among the people and as a landmark of the town across the river from one side to another. It is considered the oldest bridge crossing the river Llobregat.


It looked so beautiful with this 'Estelada', isn't it?


Day 598 - 03/06/2015 : Eagle fly free

While we were looking round Montgrony's land we were able to catch an impressive eagle flying free in the Pyrenees.

It was a magical moment, we couldn't stop at glazing the fantastic bird and its majestic fly which seemed to eat the sky.

We stayed a few minutes chasing the eagle with our camera and we finally took a picture from such a beauty nature inhabitant. I wish I could share the sky with it !

Eagle fly free !!


Monday 22 June 2015

Day 597 - 02/06/2015 : Mare de Deu de Montgrony land

Nowadays, Mongrony is a peaceful place, to put your feet up in a quiet and silent atmosphere. A land with such a magical charm which allow to enjoy the landscape, the nature and the infinite horizon.

You are invited to visit this stunning land in Ripollés, even you may think to collect mushrooms if you are a consumer and like to find them inside the forests.


Don't tell to somebody but you might also sleep in the ground protected by Mare de Deu de Montgrony's walls, but be careful with the wolves !!!



Day 596 - 01/06/2015 : Mare de Deu de Montgrony's Pantocrator

Unfortunately the contents of the sanctuary were extremely damaged by Spanish troops after the Civil War's end in 1936, you know, these people have never respected Catalan symbols.

But, the most we feel attacked in our culture, the most we fight to recover and it has been the case of Montgrony, which was restored almost completely after the war.

Now we can see a stunning Pantocrator just behind the altar, it isn't as relevant as Santa Maria de Taül but it's worth it visiting it.

Enjoy your pray !


Sunday 21 June 2015

Day 595 - 31/05/2015 : Mare de Deu de Montgrony

Undoubtedly, Montgrony's jewel is the sanctuary of Mare de Deu. This remarkable building is a Marian Church which belongs to Bisbat de Vic.

Not only remarkable is the building, but also its location in the cliff of Serra de Sant Pere, at 1370 above sea level  governing Ripollés and Berguedà shires.

Just above the cliff there are others relevant buildings as Sant Pere de Montgrony Church and the chapel, which are opened to visit.

The whole area is one of the main devotion sights to Maria in Ripollés and the neighbor areas, bringing lots of tourists around the year.

Like a prayer !


Day 594 - 30/05/2015 : Berguedà and Gombren from Montgrony

Santa Maria de Montgrony is a sanctuary located in Berguedà from where you can see a breathtaking panorama of the countryside and Gombren, the town which it's belonging to.

Specifically, it's over 1.408 above sea level and having been done up in 2001, nowadays it represents one of the most relevant sight in Pyrenees area.

Besides the great views, it's a known place to practice hiking and rock climbing, also 4x4 excursions or simply walking to enjoy the peaceful of this holy land belonging to Comte Arnau.

We're waiting for you !




Saturday 20 June 2015

Day 593 - 29/05/2015 : Font del Bisbe

La Font del Bisbe is a beautiful and hidden spot in Sant Jaume de Frontanyà, near the road leading to La Pobla de Lillet. 

There's a waterfall and a small lake below, surrounded by dense woods. There is a freak matter because of which the place is known: there is a Geocache located in a round, hermetic, regular box hidden some meters down the stream. 

You can reach there from Sant Jaume and from La Pobla, but this last route is a little better. If you park your car at the road, there's a short walk, with a little descent. Bring your swimming costume with you if you go there during warm seasons!

Amazing !


Day 592 - 28/05/2015 : St. Jaume de Frontanyà Romanesque Church altar

Since 2009, an audio-guided visit has been offered to visitors so they can learn more about the history and details of the village and its church you will be getting the best spot if you visit the town in a quiet day without the crowd being disturbed you.

You may ask for the Church's key at the information point, which kindly it gives to you after leaving your ID as deposit.

The whole Church will be available for you and only by paying 1€ to switch on lights.

It's good value for money !!!


Day 591 - 27/05/2015 : St. Jaume de Frontanyà Romanesque Church

The monumental Romanesque church of Sant Jaume is a protected historic-artistic monument from the 11th century, definitely tt's a must-see.

The 11th century Augustinian monastery church of Sant Jaume de Frontanyà is one of the county’s emblematic monuments. The Lombard-style decoration reflects the splendour of this large church with three enormous apses.

Capped with a barrel vault and dome, it is without doubt one of the most beautiful buildings in the county, not to mention one which conforms to a truly harmonious concept of Catalan Romanesque architecture. 

Are you willing to visit it?


Day 590 - 26/05/2015 : St. Jaume de Frontanyà


If I were you I would spend some hours to visit the smallest Catalonia's town in terms of inhabitants. The village is served by a local road to Borredà , which is located in C-26 road going from Berga to Ripoll, and it is well-known for its peace and tranquility.


Don't miss to stop before entering to the town and take a panoramic picture with the remarkable Romanesque Church in the background.

The town was first documented in 905, at the consecration of the Church of Sant Jaume Vell. Furthermore,
the guesthouse and restaurant Fonda Cal Marxandó has been welcoming visitors since 1851. Today, it is known for its traditional Catalan cuisine, made with locally-sourced ingredients.

Enjoy !


Day 589 - 25/05/2015 : Baells reservoir panorama

If you are thinking to spend some days around Berga and Bergueda shire make sure you go to visit Baells reservoir landscapes.

I suggest going to an alternative road which start to be steeped up and allow to admire the reservoir from the heights, undoubtedly it's the best way to catch fantastic panoramas.

The chances are to take C-26 road on the way to Ripoll just leaving Berga to the North. You will be crossing the reservoir through a vast bridge before reaching the crossroad with BV-4022. Then, don't have fear, take the narrow road which will lead you to remarkable pictures.

Just do it !


Sunday 7 June 2015

Day 588 - 24/05/2015 : Bergueda's great breakfast

In highland Catalonian shires it's common to set up the journey with a plentiful meal, we call it 'esmortzar de forquilla'.

It's basically based on pig food, some kind of sausages, calluses and red wine. We strongly recommend visiting Cobert de Puigcercós restaurant. It's located in a peaceful campsite area which you can access easily after reaching Berga.

Take C-26 road on the way to Borredà and Ripoll, just after leaving Borredà turn right into BP-4654 roach and drive 5-6 kilometers until reach your destination.

Enjoy your meal !


Day 587 - 23/05/2015 : Gironella panorama

From the balcony located in Town Hall's square we may have a panoramic view of Gironella and also a colorful set of houses dated on last century.

It's worthy to stop over in this town and learn about its history, plenty of relevant events. Probably, the most remarkable building is 'Pont Vell' which is dated on 1389 and it's the main entering point to the village.

Anyway, the eldest buildings are the pre-Romanesque Eremitori of Sant Marc which is located at Cal Bassacs and the runes of Diable bridge over Llobregat river, the walls, castle and old Town.

Enjoy your visit !


Day 586 - 22/05/2015 : Gironella

Gironella is a municipality in the comarca of the Berguedà, actually we may consider Gironella as a Llobregat's pearl.

It is situated in the left bank of the Llobregat river to the south of Berga. The local economy is traditionally based on cotton spinning and textile manufacture, although tourism is now more important: the company towns or "colonies" of workers houses surround the cotton mills are of historical interest.

The town is served by the C-16 road to Berga and the Cadí tunnel. Gironella, which has numerous stores, bars, and schools, is an important economic center for the smaller towns around it, such as Olvan, Sagàs or Casserres.

The town is mentioned in a well-known traditional Catalan song, A Gironella or Cançó de Gironella, in which a young man laments being rejected by his beloved and being forced to leave the town behind.

Why don't you stop over on your way to Berga?








Saturday 6 June 2015

Day 585 - 21/05/2015 : Sau reservoir from Vic's Hotel

Some months ago we were able to admire Sau reservoir from the heights, specifically from Tavartet cliffs. Today we have a different view from Vic's Hotel, but also a fantastic view.

The hotel is located in one of the loveliest parts of the Osona district, with the Guillerías Mountains in the distance and Sau Reservoir at its feet, reflecting the traditional style of a Catalan country house. Its beautifully maintained garden, guest rooms with balconies and a magnificent swimming pool with views of the exceptional landscape make this a wonderful place to get away from it all and relax

Fancy to go?