Has the current situation not yet allowed you to take a break? The proximity tourism is postulated as a safe and economical option to take those well-deserved vacation days. Are you looking for a nearby plan? We explain some of the secrets of our favorite area in case you decide to come visit us;)
Practicing proximity tourism in the Garraf
As you surely already know, Garraf is a coastal region located halfway between Barcelona and Tarragona. In its 185 km2 there is a lot to discover and enjoy. We have already told you about its beaches and we have reviewed a bit the wine tradition of the area, but there is still much more to discover. Can you come with us?
Enjoying the Garraf on foot (or by bike)
El Garraf is a spectacular area for lovers of hiking, cycling and those looking to enjoy a quiet walk through nature. The Garraf Natural Park, the GR-92 (the Mediterranean route that connects from Portbou to Tarifa along the coast) and the proximity between the different towns mean that there are a thousand and one options to go for a walk or pedal.
Camí de Ronda
The Camí de Ronda is a beautiful trail of about 9 km. that connects Sitges and Vilanova and la Geltrú along the coast. In fact, it is advisable to go with a swimsuit and a towel since the road passes through spectacular coves where we can stop to take a dip.
Its route takes us from the Hotel Port Sitges (next to the port of Sitges) to the Vilanova y la Geltrú lighthouse. Let’s start where we start, you just need to follow the signs to take the GR-92 and simply enjoy the incredible Mediterranean landscape. And, if when we arrive we are tired, we can easily take the Cercanías train that will take us back in a few steps.
Garraf Natural Park
If you practice local tourism in the area, without a doubt you have to come to discover the Garraf Natural Park. The environmental conditions of this coastal area not only determine the spectacular morphology of the park (full of caves, cliffs and nooks), but have also favored different rare species to choose this area to live.
Insects, reptiles, amphibians, and especially birds, many birds. From birds in danger of extinction such as the hawk or Bonelli’s eagle to native species difficult to see elsewhere such as the red rocker, the black and blonde wheatears or the gardener bunting.
The park, over 12 hectares, offers all kinds of options when visiting it. From visits by car with hikes of 1h to see its botanical itinerary (Pleta) to more demanding routes that can take us to the highest peak in the park (La Morella, 593m) or the long road that will take us back to Sitges passing by the Creu de Sant Isidre.
Looking for more routes? Take a look here to find the one that best meets your expectations.
Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Garraf
El Garraf has a spectacular historical and artistic legacy that is waiting to meet you. Architecture, painting, sculpture … we make you our small selection:
Maricel (Sitges)
One of the most emblematic architectural ensembles in Sitges and, without a doubt, one of those that hides more culture inside. Located in the center of Sitges -on C / Fonollar, to be exact- this complex is made up of two Noucentista buildings: the Palau Maricel and the Maricel Museum (also known as Maricel de Terra and Maricel de Mar, respectively)
Both were designed between 1910 and 1918 by the architect Miquel Utrillo in order to become the residence of Charles Deering, an important American businessman and philanthropist. The Palau, whose entrance is known as the “Rincón de la Calma” is made up of architectural elements of different Hispanic architectural styles such as the door of the Palace of Raixa in Mallorca or figures from the Balaguer bridge.
Inside both buildings, which can be visited separately, we will find -in addition to spectacular architecture- medieval art, Gothic and Renaissance altarpieces and carvings, sculptures of the Catalan noucentist style, a very important collection of antique glass and a great variety of works of local and Catalan authors from different periods.
Railway Museum (Vilanova)
Vilanova y la Geltrú and the trains keep a very special bond. And it is because of them this population of Garraf managed to trigger its development and growth. Perhaps, as a tribute, today they have the Railway Museum, a journey through the history of this means of transport through one of the largest collections of steam locomotives in all of Europe.
An option that, thanks to its activities, is the perfect option to spend a day with the family. In addition, this 2020 they are celebrating their 30th anniversary. So if you practice proximity tourism in the area and you like trains, don’t hesitate to visit it. Do you want more information? We leave it here.
Visit to the wine cellars (Sant Pere de Ribes)
El Garraf is part of the Penedés, a historical territory between Barcelona and Tarragona famous for its wines (D.O. Penedés)
Within our region you can visit various wineries where you can taste their wines, walk through their vineyards and learn in depth what their manufacturing process is.
Are you interested in pairing enoculture with proximity tourism? Take a look at this article about the 4 best wineries in Sant Pere de Ribes.
El Garraf from the water
If you are looking for proximity tourism with sun and beach, this is undoubtedly your area. Not only do we have some of the best beaches in all of Catalonia, but also our coastline is perfect for enjoying all kinds of water sports.
Cota Zero (Vilanova i la Geltrú)
The guys at Cota Zero are passionate about outdoor sports and true experts in the field. They have always lived here and know our coasts and mountains better than anyone. They offer, for example, kayak excursions along the coast or on foot through the Garraf Natural Park. They are the perfect option if you are looking for a more personalized experience from the hand of authentic locals. In addition, if you need something they have a store in the same place. You can visit them here.
Nootka (Sitges)
If you have chosen to stay -or spend the day at the beach- in Sitges or you come from Sant Pere de Ribes, the people of Nootka are your best option. Located on Las Anquines beach (next to the Terramar Golf Club) they know the town and all its corners like no one else and offer all kinds of rental material, courses, excursions, campus, activities for groups…
More leisure activities in Garraf
The Garraf also hides tons of fun. We have selected for you some of the best leisure activities in the area so that you can enjoy with family or friends with the greatest security.
Express Escape (Sant Pere de Ribes)
Who was going to tell us that one of the funniest scape rooms in Garraf was going to be so close? A few minutes from Caburé we find Express Scape, a hilarious escape adventure that will transport us to the Montgrós mountain and its secret.
Express Escape lasts approximately an hour and a half and adapts your gaming experience to accommodate groups of 2 to 6 people. Do you want to know more about the game? Discover it here.
Axerum (Vilanova y la Geltrú)
If when practicing proximity tourism one of your objectives is to release adrenaline and try new things, you should definitely visit Axerum.
They are specialized in the game of ax throwing but at their store you will find much more. Teqball tables to play ping-pong-soccer, darts, old school arcade games and even a rage room, where you can destroy all kinds of objects with bats and maces. Take a look at their location and services here.
Where to sleep in El Garraf
Practicing proximity tourism does not mean having to sleep at home. If you want to disconnect for a few days, we recommend some of the best hotels in the Garraf area.
Palou Boutique Hotel (Sant Pere de Ribes)
Located a few steps from our restaurant, the Palou Boutique Hotel is the perfect place for those looking for a unique atmosphere and exquisite treatment.
The hotel, with only 10 suites, is located in a beautiful late 19th century Indian house perfectly restored to maintain all its colonial charm. Surrounding music, fresh aromas, soft light, a sunny garden with a swimming pool, quiet reading rooms and unparalleled customer service. Find out more about this incredible place here.
Hotel Ribes-Roges (Vilanova i la Geltrú)
Are you looking for a middle ground between the tranquility of Sant Pere de Ribes and the bustle of Sitges? In Vilanova y la Geltrú you will find what you are looking for.
And among all the accommodation that the city offers, we want to tell you about the Hotel Ribes-Roges, a small family hotel with 12 rooms with more than half a century of tradition located a few meters from the beach and a few minutes from the center of the city. city, as you can see on their website.
Where to eat in the Garraf?
Culture, nature, beaches, wine, leisure … and what about gastronomy? El Garraf is full of great places to eat. But if you want to eat in a unique and relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine and the best products in the area, come and visit us at Caburé Gastrobar. We are a few minutes from both Sitges and Vilanova i la Geltrú. Do you want to see our dishes?
