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Vic’s market square and old town offer a cultural retreat just outside Barcelona’s orbit. Credit: JackF via Canva from Getty Images
Barcelona is a city that moves fast. These places do not. When the noise of the city fills your mind, the locals are outnumbered by tourists, or the beach seems too crowded, it’s the perfect time to escape. The second part of our Barcelona escape is now available. This time, we will skip the castles and spas. These three day trips focus on open landscapes, small towns and villages where you may hear more birds rather than buses.
You don’t have to rush, you can take your time, eat healthy and realise that you won’t miss it afterward. The first part was about exploring Catalonia’s hidden history. This second is about reconnecting with peace and nature.
Escape 1: Vic
Vic is not just a 1970s apartment building with a Roman temple hidden behind it. It has a timeless charm and a Catalan soul. It’s known for its Saturday markets, cured meats and Roman artifacts.
Vic’s authentic food and rich history are combined in a way to feel deeply Catalan. It does not try to impress anyone. Placa Major is the central square and alone it’s worth a visit.
Why go?
- The Saturday Market Catalonia is home to some of the most renowned local institutions
- Explore the World with Us All of these attractions are within walking distance: the Cathedral, medieval streets and the Roman temple.
- The legendary Fuet Local producers.
- HistoryDiscover the Catalan culture, which is rich and surprising for a city of such small size.
Vic plays an important, yet quiet, role in the history and literature of Catalonia. Think of Girona, its grittier and more grounded cousin.
Destination:
- By train Renfe R3 takes about 1 hour 20 minutes to get from Barcelona up to Vic.
- By car C-17: Around one hour and ten minutes
Escape 2: Tamarit
Imagine a golden Cove with waves gently lapping at your feet, but without beach clubs, techno speakers, or overpriced sangria. Imagine a golden cove with waves gently lapping at your feet. There are no beach clubs, techno speakers, or expensive sangria. Tamarit is what you get.
You can combine a medieval view with a seaside trip just outside Tarragona. Locals seem to love this area, but guidebooks hardly mention it.
Why go?
- Turmeric Castle The house looks like something out of a fairy tale.
- The beach The area is calm, clean and family friendly.
- Hiking trails Connect you to hidden codes on the coast.
Bonus tip: Try to arrive at the golden hours, when the silhouette of the castle is seen against the sea. This is an Instagram goldmine for influencers.
Destination:
- By train Renfe Altafulla – Tamarit (1 hour and 15 minute trip).
- By car AP-7 1 hour and 20 Minutes
Escape 3: Els Hostalets d’en Bas.
This is a real postcard. Els Hostalets d’en Bas feels like a painting, but it is actually the moment just before an artist begins to paint. This is a small Catalan Village with stone houses and flower-box balconies, surrounded by green fields. The mountains are behind.
Catalonia is a beautiful rural region that will make you reconsider city life.
Why go?
- Architecture The traditional architecture has been preserved, including the absence of neon signs and glass-fronted cafes.
- TrailsIt also has Farm Roads cycling routes which feel like they are in the mountains.
- LocalThe Catalan spongecake, and the handmade cheeses.
You will still remember Stiges for the sunsets and Cava for its bread, Hostalets for its stillness and quietness.
Destination:
By car, it takes 1 hour and 45 min via C-17
The number of buses is limited. It’s better to travel in a car.
Peaceful Transition
It’s a quieter version of Catalonia than you see in most guidebooks. And that may be the point. These small towns and countrysides offer something Barcelona cannot: the freedom to not do anything without feeling guilty.
You won’t see any cues, pressure, or must-sees—just time, space, and a reminder that peace is still part of the traveller’s experience. You know where you can go if you are feeling overwhelmed by the noise of Barcelona and other cities.
