5 most scenic routes for road trips from Barcelona

Barcelona is not only the center of Gaudi's architectural masterpieces, but also the starting point for many stunning road trips. Catalonia is surrounded by magnificent landscapes: mountains, coasts, wineries and historic cities. Renting a car opens up the opportunity for tourists to discover the hidden treasures of the region. In this article, we will highlight five scenic routes that are ideal for day trips or longer journeys.

1. Monserrat - a mountain with a monastery and mystical atmosphere

Distance: 60 km (about 1 hour travel time)
Why it's worth going:
Monserrat is one of Spain's most recognizable natural sites. Its unusual jagged cliffs and famous Benedictine monastery are breathtaking in their beauty and grandeur.

It is easy to get here by car: the road is picturesque, especially closer to the mountain, where you can enjoy views of gorges and valleys. For outdoor enthusiasts, Monserrat offers many hiking trails. Renting a car allows you to get here in the morning, avoid the crowds of tourists and enjoy the silence.

What to watch:

• The Monastery of Santa Maria de Montserrat, which houses a statue of the Black Madonna.
• Breathtaking views from the top of the San Geroni observation deck.
• Legendary rock trails for hiking.

2. Costa Brava - the pearl of the Mediterranean Sea

Distance: 100-150 km (1.5-2 hours on the road)
Why it's worth going:
The Costa Brava is a combination of picturesque bays, crystal clear waters and cozy coastal towns. This route passes through stunning landscapes where forests, cliffs and sea vistas alternate.

Renting a car allows you to visit several beaches and villages along the coast. Among them are Tossa de Mar with its ancient fortress and Cadaqués, where Salvador Dali lived.

What to watch:

• The cozy beaches of Cala del Pi and Cala San Francesc.
• The town of Begur with its atmospheric streets.
• Salvador Dali Museum in Figueres (en route).

3. Girona and Besalu - a walk through the Middle Ages

Distance: Girona - 100 km, Besalu - 130 km (1,5-2 hours on the road)
Why it's worth going:
Girona is a charming city with narrow streets, cobbled sidewalks and a rich history. In its old town, you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Middle Ages. Besalú, nearby, adds even more authenticity with its ancient bridges and Romanesque churches.

A road trip makes it easy to combine both places into one itinerary, enjoying scenic hills and vineyards along the way.

What to watch:

• Girona's Jewish Quarter and Cathedral.
• The ancient bridge and St. Peter's Square in Besalu.
• Local cafes with traditional Catalan cuisine.

4. Tarragona and the wineries of the Penedès region

Distance: 90 km (about 1 hour travel time)
Why it's worth going:
Tarragona is an ancient city with Roman heritage including an amphitheater, fortresses and ancient streets. And next to Tarragona lies the Penedès region, known for its wineries and the production of the famous cava sparkling wine.

By car, you can easily combine cultural and gastronomic vacations, visiting both historical sites and wine tastings.

What to watch:

• Roman amphitheater and Devil's Bridge aqueduct.
• Torres Winery, which offers tours and tastings.
• Beaches in Cambrils, located nearby.

5. Cadiz-Moynthe-Louadé and Val de Bois National Park

Distance: 180 km (about 3 hours on the road)
Why it's worth going:
For lovers of nature and mountain views, a trip to the Cadiz-Moynte-Luade National Park will be a real gift. This route passes through valleys, waterfalls and high mountain ranges.

The park is famous for its diversity of flora and fauna, and the Val de Bois for its Romanesque churches, which are included in the UNESCO list.

What to watch:

• A trail around St. Maurici Lake, ideal for easy trekking.
• Romanesque churches, including St. Clement de Taoul.
• Gorges and waterfalls along the way.

Useful tips for traveling by car

• Plan your route in advance. Take into account travel time, amenities at stops, and parking availability.
• Choose the right vehicle for you. Smaller cars are convenient for cities, but for long trips you should choose a more comfortable sedan or SUV.
• Take the season into account. The routes are popular with tourists in the summer, so book your car in advance.
• Use the navigator. Some places, especially in the mountains, may not be well marked on road signs.

Conclusion

Road trips from Barcelona offer the opportunity to see Catalonia at its most picturesque. A rental car allows you to control your itinerary, reach the most hidden corners and enjoy the region's nature and culture at your own pace. Whether you choose the mountains of Monserrat, the beaches of the Costa Brava or the romance of Girona, your road trip will be an unforgettable adventure.