Things To Do
in Cassá de la Selva
Cassà de la Selva is a small Catalan town set in the green heart of La Selva, just inland from Girona. It blends a rustic countryside vibe with a surprisingly active local culture and range of eateries. The town preserves a historic center with narrow lanes, stone houses, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy easy access to hikes, local markets, and Catalan traditions without straying far from Girona and the Costa Brava coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the quaint village of Cassá de la Selva and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, soaking in the charm of the surrounding landscape. Take some time to stroll through the narrow streets, admiring the traditional Catalan architecture.
Discover the local history by visiting the Museu de la Terracotta, which showcases the region's pottery heritage. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring traditional Catalan dishes. After lunch, take a bike ride or walk along the scenic trails that wind through the countryside.
As the sun sets, dine at a cozy bistro, sampling regional wines and tapas. The gentle sounds of local music may accompany your meal, enriching the cultural experience. End your day with a peaceful stroll under the stars, taking in the tranquil atmosphere of the village.
Take a short train ride to the historic city of Girona, where you'll explore its fascinating medieval streets. Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Cathedral of Girona, marveling at its impressive Gothic architecture. Grab breakfast at a local bakery, indulging in freshly baked pastries.
Wander through the Jewish Quarter, one of the best-preserved in Europe, filled with narrow alleys and charming shops. Enjoy lunch by the Onyar River, with stunning views of the colorful houses lining the banks. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Arab Baths, a peaceful sanctuary amidst the bustling city.
Return to Cassá de la Selva and unwind with a delicious dinner at your accommodation, where traditional flavors await. Enjoy a nightcap while sharing stories of the day’s adventures. Let the serene ambiance of the village wash over you as you prepare for a restful night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🛒Grocery basics for a week | $40-70 |
| 🚆One-way local transport | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful countryside and charming stone towns
- Excellent proximity to Girona and the Costa Brava
- Relaxed pace and authentic Catalan culture
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Small town offerings; some attractions require day trips
- Seasonal markets and events can vary year to year
- "Bon dia" - Good morning
- "Bona tarda" - Good afternoon
- "Si us plau" - Please
- "Gràcies" - Thank you
- "Hola, on és la biblioteca?" - Hello, where is the library?
- "Parla anglès?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quant costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "On és el bany?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Què recomana?" - What do you recommend?
- "Puc pagar amb targeta?" - Can I pay with a card?
Places to Visit in Cassá de la Selva
Visit one of these nice places.
A central square bordered by historic buildings and the town hall, ideal for morning light and candid street photography.
Medieval church with stone arches and charming lanes; perfect for architectural and texture shots.
Calm water reflections and greenery along the river, especially beautiful at golden hour.
A hillside viewpoint offering expansive views of the town, farmland, and distant hills.
Food in Cassá de la Selva
Cassá de la Selva Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A salt cod salad with tomatoes, onions, olive oil, and peppers—light, bright, and often available in local taverns.
Must-Try!
A savory flatbread topped with roasted peppers, onions, and sometimes anchovies or vegetables.
Grilled Catalan sausage served with white beans, a rustic regional staple.
A creamy custard dessert with a caramelized sugar crust, similar to crème brûlée.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, olives, and regional snacks; a good place to sample local flavors on Saturdays.
Seasonal street bites during festas and market days, including pastries and small tapas-style plates.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Catalan is widely spoken; many residents are bilingual. A few basic phrases in Catalan or Spanish are appreciated.
Greet with 'Bon dia' (good day) or 'Bon dia, com està?' and use a light handshake with new acquaintances.
Keep voices moderate in public, especially in religious sites and during siesta hours; show respect in historic buildings and cemeteries.
Safety
Tipping in Cassá de la Selva
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Spain, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated in restaurants and bars.
Cash is widely accepted, and credit/debit cards are commonly used. Contactless payments are increasingly standard; be aware that a few small businesses may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days and blooming orchards make walking and easy hikes especially pleasant. Markets begin to fill with fresh produce and herbs.
Hot and dry; plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons, stay hydrated, and enjoy nearby coastal breezes on longer day trips.
Harvest time brings colorful countryside and local food festivals; temperatures are comfortable for outdoor exploration.
Cool but typically mild; rain is possible. Cozy cafes and museums provide refuge, and holiday decorations add charm to town streets.
Cassá de la Selva at Night
Hiking in Cassá de la Selva
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic riverside path offering easy terrain and shade along the water.
Circular route through olive groves and farmland with gentle ascents and farmland viewpoints.
Short ascent to a hilltop viewpoint overlooking the town and surrounding countryside.
Airports
How to reach Cassá de la Selva by plane.
Located about 20-30 minutes by car from Cassà, with seasonal connections to several European destinations and car rental services nearby.
A major international hub about 1.5-2 hours away by road or rail, offering extensive connections and onward train options to the Girona area.
A smaller regional airport within a couple of hours’ drive, useful for certain European routes and cross-border travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly town with parks, safe streets, and community events throughout the year.
Quiet neighborhoods and a slower pace attract retirees seeking a pleasant Catalan town life.
Proximity to Girona and the coast makes it appealing for those who commute for work or study.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region embraces football, with local clubs and informal matches common in parks and school grounds.
Rural roads and gentle hills make Cassà a popular base for road biking and gravel riding between Girona and the countryside.
Public courts and club facilities are common, especially in the warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cassá de la Selva.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian dishes like escalivada (grilled vegetables), coca de recapte without meat, salads, and cheese plates. When ordering, ask for 'sense carnis' or 'vegetarià' in Catalan or 'vegetariano' in Spanish, and request dishes without meat or fish if needed.