Venture beyond the borders of Catalonia for an only-in-Europe experience—visiting 3 different countries in a single day. Roam medieval lanes in a sleepy Spanish village, soak your feet in the natural springs of an ancient thermal spa town in France, and discover the capital of the jewel-like country of Andorra.
Get an early start in Barcelona and set off through the mountainous landscapes of the Pyrenees. Before leaving Spain, stop in the medieval village of Bagà, located in the heart of the Cadí-Moixeró natural park. Pop into a local bakery for a pastry or find a cafe for a coffee as you watch the village wake up, and then take a short walking tour of the centre of town before continuing on.
Cross over the border into France and makes your way to the village of Ax-les-Thermes, a riverside settlement whose natural hot springs have been used to treat illness since the time of the Roman empire. Enjoy some free time to soak in the healing waters, browse artisan shops, and pick out a local restaurant for a traditional French lunch.
From Ax-les-Thermes, continue your drive through the Pyrenees and over the scenic pass of Pas de la Casa, hopping out to stretch your legs with a hike if you'd like. Finally, arrive in Andorra la Vella, the capital of the small but spectacular ministate of Andorra. Spend some time in the picturesque old quarter, and check out the duty-free shops for a bargain or two. Your return ride to Barcelona takes you back along a different route, a picturesque journey through dramatic gorges, lush green farmland, and arid stretches of sun-kissed and orange-hued terrain.