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Home , Olot, Ullastret

| 7 days - 6 nights | from $3,898

Trip Summary: Catalonia is one of Spain’s most diverse regions and it’s incredibly different from the rest of the country. Discover delightful Romanesque churches and towering Gothic cathedrals as you travel between medieval villages. A collection of museums can fill you in on the artistic legacy and rich history. Three of the last century’s most avant-garde artists – Dalí, Picasso and Miró – began their careers in Catalonia. And let’s not forget the architectural extravaganzas of Gaudí. Catalonian food is among Spain’s most flavorful and innovative. Its variety stems from Catalonia’s geographical diversity, and can come in unusual and delicious combinations: meat with seafood, poultry with fruit, fish with nuts, etc.!

www.austinadventures.com | 800-575-1540 1 THE DAY TO DAY

Day 1:

After meeting in Barcelona in the morning, you are transferred to Pantà de Sau • The Sau Reservoir, which belongs to the Ter River Basin, is a wonderful place to kayak • After kayaking, we continue on foot during a hike with wide views across the gorge and the Pantà de Sau dam • For lunch we stop in the picturesque hamlet of Tavertet, surrounded by the mountains • In the afternoon, we proceed on segways to the small town of Rupit, with narrow, cobblestone streets and idyllic squares • Once we reach Olot, relax on the terrace of our hotel before gathering together at a local restaurant for a welcome dinner with traditional specialties • Overnight at Hotel Riu Olot (B, L, D)

Day 2: Olot

Get up early if you choose to join an optional hot-air balloon flight (not included in the trip price) • Sparkling Cava wine and traditional Catalan cake are presented during the flight, followed by a soft landing and lunch of locally roasted & cured sausage with white beans • Those who prefer to stay on the ground can participate in a hike through the protected volcanic landscape between Olot and the village of • Thanks to its 30-some extinct volcanoes, this is a beautiful and unusually shaped landscape with lush, green vegetation • After returning to Olot, opt to visit the botanical gardens and the informative Volcano Museum • Overnight at Hotel Riu Olot (B, L)

Day 3:

Today, follow the ‘Via Verde’ as you cycle along traffic-free bike trails for the entirety of the route to Girona • Stop for a picnic lunch at the former train station of Amer and proceed (by bike or van) via Anglès to Girona, nicknamed ‘the city of a thousand sieges’ where the ramparts still mark the old town’s limits • This evening feed your appetite with a delicious meal at one of our favorite restaurants • Overnight at Hotel Ciutat de Girona (B, L, D)

www.austinadventures.com | 800-575-1540 2 Day 4: Girona

We begin the day with a short transfer to , well known for its natural lake fed by underground streams, which was the location for the rowing events during the 1992 Olympic Games • At the lake, options include walking, rowing, swimming or going for a boat ride • But first, why not visit the Wednesday market on the central square which has been taking place since the 13th century? • There is so much to explore in Girona you will want to spend the afternoon in town • Or you can decide to visit and see the sublime Theater-Museum Dalí, a one-of-a-kind surrealist object • An evening on your own gives you the opportunity to find the restaurant of your choice in Girona • Overnight at Hotel Ciutat de Girona (B, L)

Day 5: La Bisbal d’Emporda

A short shuttle will take us out of town to our ride which leads through Catalonia’s best preserved and most authentic villages • At Púbol, visit the mansion Salvador Dalí acquired and decorated for his wife Gala who resided here until she passed away in 1982 • In La Bisbal peruse the ceramic stores and pay a visit to the ceramics museum • Retreat to the grounds of our castle where we will enjoy an informal, tapas-style meal on the terrace • Overnight at Hotel Castell d’Empordà (B, D)

Day 6: La Bisbal d’Emporda

Transfer to the Mediterranean’s and end up at the archipelago Les Illes Medes, an off-shore marine wildlife reserve • Snorkel in the clear waters around the islets or ride your bike to nearby medieval villages • Once back at our castle, relax at the pool or on the terrace before our gourmet farewell feast in the hotel’s restaurant • Overnight at Hotel Castell d’Empordà (B, D)

www.austinadventures.com | 800-575-1540 3 Day 7: Barcelona

At the time of your preference, your guide will transfer you to the Barcelona airport or train station for your departure home • Or be shuttled to your hotel in Barcelona if you’re extending your stay in this exciting city • No overnight (B)

**Trip itineraries are subject to change without notice due to road, trail, weather and other factors outside of our control, for the safety and enjoyment of our guests, as deemed necessary and appropriate by Austin Adventures.

Cycling: Day 3: 18-34 miles; Day 5: 25-40 miles; Day 6: 14-20 miles

Hiking: moderate terrain no experience necessary

Kayaking: no experience necessary

Snorkeling: no experience necessary, guides will provide instruction and equipment

Discovery: Living among volcanoes is part of everyday life for the locals in Olot, a city located in the Natural Park of the Volcanic Area of La . There are four volcanoes within the town limits. Kiss the ‘Cul de la Lleona’ to guarantee your return to Girona. Explore the parade of ceramics stores lining the main road in La Bisbal. Nearby is one of the best preserved Iberian settlements where remains of walls, gates, silos, etc. most dating to the 3rd Century BC have been excavated. Try a Copa de Cava, Catalonia’s signature bubbly beverage!

Austin Adventures guides are experienced facilitators and regional experts. They will take the time to fit you to your bikes, explain the details of each ride and answer any questions. Each day your guides will help you choose the distance and route that is right for you.

www.austinadventures.com | 800-575-1540 4 DISTINCTIVE ACCOMMODATIONS

Nights 1 & 2: Hotel Rio Olot

This modern hotel is located inside the Garrotxa Volcanic Park and within walking distance of the historic town center. It offers impressive vistas of the surrounding mountains and volcanic hills. The rooms are spacious and have air conditioning and fully equipped bathrooms.

Nights 3 & 4: Hotel Ciutat de Girona

Located in the pedestrian zone of the commercial quarter, Hotel Ciutat de Girona is perfectly situated for visiting the medieval town center across the Onyar River. You’ll feel right at home in the large, comfortable rooms with modern bathrooms. The restaurant offers savory fusion cuisine.

Nights 5 & 6: Hotel Castell d’Emporda

This restored 14th century castle with modern additions is surrounded by its own park. Castell d’Emporda is a marvelous four-star hotel fully satisfying all the requirements of the 21st century. The Castell features comfortable, individually decorated rooms. Amenities include the Drac restaurant serving Mediterranean dishes made with fresh local produce. Enjoy dining on the terrace which has wonderful views of the countryside. The outdoor swimming pool is amazing too!

www.austinadventures.com | 800-575-1540 5 Arrival and Departure

Prior to the trip, arrive at your own convenience in Barcelona. On Day 1, we will meet you in the lobby of Hotel Jazz in Barcelona at 8:30 a.m. After a transfer to Pantà de Sau, the fun begins with a kayak trip on the lake. After breakfast on Day 7, we take you to the airport, train station or hotel of your choice in Barcelona (two hour transfer).

2016 Dates Trip Price Trip Length Host City July 2 - 8 from 7 days/6 nights Barcelona, $3,898 / adult Spain Airport

September 10 - 16 ($680 single Code: BCN supplement)

Reservations & Availability 1-800-575-1540 [email protected]

What Our Guests Say

 “Our tour was incredibly well-organized with a team of guides who were truly, unbelievably great.”– Julie T., New York, NY

 “We had an excellent group. Everyone got along, and the guides were great. They really know how to anticipate all your needs.” – Nancy B., Toronto, ON

 “Had another great trip! We thought the routes were some of the best we’ve ever done!” – Marsha B., Vancouver, BC

www.austinadventures.com | 800-575-1540 6