When people think of the region of Catalonia in northeast Spain, it is portrayed as one region, one principality; however there is much more to Catalonia than meets the eye.
Firstly, it’s made up of several separate regions that incorporate Girona, Catalunya Central, Barcelona, Lleida, Alt Pirineu i Aran, Camp de Tarragona and Terres de L’Ebre, many of which have their own dialects. When booking your Catalonia holiday rental, see below to learn more about the lesser known regions of Catalonia, and then you can choose where to visit during your stay!
Alt Pirineu i Aran
This is one of the territories defined by the Catalonia Regional Plan and by the Pyrenees, hence the name. Step outside the front door of your Spain vacation rental in this area and you will find snow-capped mountains, charming villages, and flora and fauna in abundance. There are natural parks all around, with wonderful hiking, trekking, and cycling trails. The area isn’t heavily populated but this just adds to the appeal. If you seek peace, solitude, and to be at one with nature, then this corner of Catalonia could be perfect for you.
Lleida
Lleida is approximately 100 km inland from Tarragona and 152 km east of Zaragoza. The region’s main city of the same name has a rich history. La Seu Vella Cathedral towers over the banks of the River Segre which has wonderful walking and cycle paths, while the waterfront is sprinkled with relaxing parks and peaceful havens. Lleida is one of Catalonia’s oldest towns and has settlements which date as far back as the Bronze Age.
Girona
Girona is known for many things: the vibrant terracotta and rich ochre riverside buildings, its ancient Cathedral, St Pere de Galligants, plus lively markets and museums. It’s a city and region that many visitors tend to pass through when arriving or departing from the airport, yet it has rich treasures waiting to be explored. Outside the city lies the beautiful Lake of Banyoles. The surrounding verdant fields and turquoise blue lake are a major summer attraction for water sports and fishing enthusiasts and families just seeking a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.
Tarragona
With its medieval streets, fine shopping, superb restaurants and even a Roman amphitheatre you would be forgiven for spending your entire time in Tarragona. However, a little further afield there is plenty more to see. The tourist resorts of Salou and Cambrils are on every family´s to-do list, however the little known city of Tortosa usually isn’t. Tortosa is a medieval masterpiece with Cathedrals, cloisters, tapas bars, and a charming old-world atmosphere.
Terres de L’Ebre
At the southern tip of Catalonia before you reach Castellon, you find Terres de L’Ebre – a little known region which has incredible natural beauty both inland and on the coast.
The seaside town of L’Ampolla is a fishing port with a backdrop of mountains, striking secluded coves for sunbathing, and plenty of outdoor pursuits from horse riding and golf to fishing and cycling. Ebro Delta National Park is the largest wetland in the entire region of Catalonia. With flora and fauna and diverse wildlife, it is the ideal place to visit to get back to nature, plus El Ports Natural Park is dominated by rugged cliffs and mountains and offers an insight into the endangered species in the area. If you seek natural beauty in a quiet and tranquil, non-touristy environment, drive here from your family villa in Spain and discover a different side to Catalonia.
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