Monells, a Picture-Perfect Village
Monells is a small village located in the Baix Empordà region, in the province of Girona. The town is known for its beauty and charm, with a well-preserved old town and cobblestone streets that make visitors feel as if they were in another era.
It’s a charming and quiet village with various tourist attractions, such as the Main Square, its church, and the main entrance gate.
What to see
Monells is a medieval village built around an old castle of which only the walls and its towers remain. These are Romanesque in style, the Oil Square, the Arch Street, and some windows are of Gothic style.
The Church of Sant Genís is the most notable building in the area. It is documented from the 11th century and is located on the other side of the river, in the riera neighborhood. The temple currently preserves the Romanesque head, the nave and the Gothic apse, and the bell tower of Baroque style.
It is also recommended to visit the Arch Street, which is one of the most picturesque streets of the village, with its old houses and arcades.
What to do
You can stroll quietly through its streets until reaching Jaume I Square, the scene of a very important market that was held during the medieval period.
An option is to do the #Aprop experience which explains what is behind a glass of milk. To be able to make the visit, you have to go to the Milk Vacuum Station. You will enjoy a tour about milk production accompanied by audiovisual projection. You can also do a workshop and a final tasting of the product.
There are different routes to enjoy the environment, such as the Route of the three villages, the route through medieval paths, or the route from Sant Sadurní to Monells.
Gastronomy
The gastronomy is of traditional, authentic, and creative cuisine. All products used are zero kilometer to make dishes of traditional Catalan cuisine. In the restaurants, you will find meats and fish, wine with DO Empordà, and local specialty desserts.
Where to Eat
There are various options of restaurants and bars to eat, especially in the center of the locality. It is a very touristic place, so it is advisable to book in advance.
You can see all the restaurants in Monells at Guiacat.
Where to Stay
There are various accommodation options that suit everyone’s needs.
You can also find rural accommodations near Monells at Guiacat.
Festivals
The Main Festival is celebrated at the end of August with various activities for the town’s people. Among them, the traditional cow milking contest stands out.
The Small Festival of Sant Bruget is in January and lasts only one day. In the morning, there is a gathering of animals, tractors, and field tools. At 12 pm, gifts are distributed, and the event concludes with a musical vermouth.
Best Time to Visit
It is recommended to visit the town during May and June. You can enjoy the good weather and there begins to be an atmosphere, but without the mass tourism of summer.
Must-Sees
- Get lost in the streets
- Visit the Main Square
- Walk through the Street of the Arcs
What to See Nearby
If you want to know what is around Monells to expand your experience and discover the hidden charms of the region, you have several fascinating options within a short distance. Less than 30 km away you have the beautiful city of Girona, where you can discover an impressive cultural and architectural wealth. Its old town will transport you through time with its cobbled streets and its impressive medieval walls.
Almost the same kilometers to the other side, you can visit some of the most beautiful villages in the province of Girona: Pals and Peratallada. With their cobbled streets and ancient stones, these villages will invite you to stroll calmly while admiring their perfectly preserved medieval architecture.
How to Get There
By car: Via the AP7 at exit 6. Once there, continue on the C-66 direction La Bisbal until Corçà, once there, take the GIV-6701 to Cruïlles, Monells, and Sant Sadurní de l’Heura. It can also be reached by N-II and C-31.
By public transport: By bus from SARFA company from La Bisbal d’Empordà to Girona.
