Peratallada, a fortified village
Peratallada is a beautiful medieval village located in the Baix Empordà region in the province of Girona, Catalonia. It is known for its cobbled streets, its stone houses, and its castle. Its old town is surrounded by walls and defense towers that were built during the 11th century to protect the population. The narrow streets are the result of the town’s history and make walking through them a truly unique experience. For all these reasons, Peratallada is considered one of the most charming towns in the area.
What to See
The Sant Esteve church is the ideal place to start your visit to the village of Peratallada. It’s an ancient medieval church dating back to the late 12th century.
Just across the road, you’ll arrive at the Portal de la Verge, one of the best-preserved access gates to the village.
This fortified complex consists of several towers and walls, and this gate where there used to be a raised bridge. One of the most outstanding and well-preserved towers is the Torre de les Hores, dating from the 13th to 15th centuries. It was refurbished to place the town clock in the 20th century. From the top, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Empordà plain.
Upon entering this gate, you’ll directly access the carrer de la Roca, which is probably the most beautiful street, and it has the rock that was cut to create the different paths, which is the origin of the town’s name.
In the past, its streets were directly laid on the stone, but when the sewer system was introduced, the stone was raised, and the streets were paved while preserving their charm.
On this street, you will also find the stone arch. If you walk along the entire street, you will reach the plaça dels Esquiladors, where you will enjoy the most photogenic corners of the village.
The plaça dels Esquiladors does not have any outstanding monument but stands out for the ensemble of dream houses it contains. The square’s name comes from the gatherings of sheep shearers that used to take place there once a year. It’s the perfect place to have a drink or a meal.
Nearby, you’ll find a small square, plaça de l’Oli. A tiny place where you can enjoy the beauty of its houses and taste their products.
From this square, you can see the Torre de l’Homenatge. A tower built in the 11th and 12th centuries. The castle of Peratallada, built on a rock, is no longer preserved as such, but this part is the best-preserved.
Although the entire castle is not intact, there is the plaça del Castell with the main entrance to the castle’s palace. Visits are not allowed as it is privately owned.
Another notable square in Peratallada is plaça de les Voltes, where medieval arches are preserved. In this lively space, you can also find restaurants with terraces ideal for dining or having a drink.
From the same square, you can access carrer Major, where you can see some of the most beautiful corners of the village along with craft shops.
What to Do
Visiting Peratallada means getting lost in its streets and its well-preserved historic center, which is car-free for visitors, making it a very peaceful visit. You can book guided tours to discover all its attractions.
On this tour of the village, which will surely be full of photogenic spots, you will also discover many restaurants. To complete your visit to Peratallada, it is recommended to taste the traditional “arròs a la cassola” (casserole rice).
Finally, the village enjoys a privileged natural environment with surrounding fields and nature. There are several options for walking or off-road cycling routes, such as from Vullpellac to Clots de Sant Julià, Canapost, and Peratallada. From here, you can start a 10 km ride to Pals.
Gastronomy
Peratallada offers quality artisanal products and restaurants where you can try typical local dishes, a fusion of Catalan and Mediterranean cuisine. The most typical dish is “arròs a la cassola” (casserole rice). Desserts and grilled meat are also noteworthy.
Where to Eat
There are several options for dining or having a drink in the main squares of the town. If you wander through its streets, you may also find hidden restaurants. It is advisable to check in advance if they are open, as some close during the low season.
You can find all the restaurants in Peratallada on Guiacat.
Where to Stay
The village and its surroundings have many farmhouse-style houses available for tourist rentals, ideal accommodations for immersing yourself in the nature and history of l’Empordanet.
You can find all the rural accommodations in Peratallada on Guiacat.
Festivals
The Festa Major (Main Festival) takes place at the beginning of August and starts with a popular dinner for the population. There are various cultural events for all ages.
The Fira de les Herbes (Herbs Fair) is held in late April. During the day, activities such as workshops, talks, and exhibitions are organized for all ages.
In October, there is the Fira Medieval de Peratallada (Peratallada Medieval Fair), where comedians, jugglers, and characters from the medieval era return to occupy the village, recreating a medieval market.
Best Time to Visit
It is recommended to visit the village in spring or during the summer months excluding August. During autumn and winter, there is not much activity in the village, but as summer approaches, you can see its streets and squares filled with people.
Must-See
- Explore the cobbled streets.
- Admire the medieval facades.
- Visit the castle of Peratallada.
What to See Near Peratallada
Peratallada is surrounded by charming medieval towns such as Pals, Vulpellac, Palau-Sator, Ullastret, and La Bisbal d’Empordà, where you can also visit their historic centers. In addition, there is a privileged natural environment characterized by the landscapes of the plain and the coast of Baix Empordà.
How to Get There
By car: From Barcelona, the fastest route is to take the AP7 motorway towards Girona until exit 9A, then continue on the C-35, C-65, and C-66, passing through Platja d’Aro, until you reach Vullpellac, where you will find signs to Peratallada.
From Girona, you should go on the N-II towards France until you reach the detour for the C-66 towards Banyoles. Follow this road to La Bisbal de l’Empordà and Vullpellac.
By public transport: Peratallada is not well connected by public transport, the only option is to take a train to Flaçà and then take a bus to the village. It is also connected by the Begur – Girona bus line. It is advisable to check the schedules in advance.
