Imagine waking up in the morning. Still dreaming, you open your room window to let some sunshine in. Then you realize you are actually on a 50 meters high cliff staring down at the abyss. Interested? Good, because is worth it.

Normally this impression should not take too much attention since every five-story building can provide you the same thing but in Castellfollit de la Roca, there is something slightly different. Even, to be completely honest, I think alcohol consummation should be strictly monitored on a place like this since you can fall down from the cliff in almost every direction you walk. Rave parties or similar events should be completely forbidden. Even if I’m completely wrong I still wouldn’t push the luck of so many people.

I regret not knowing about this place earlier because I would come to visit early in the morning before dawn breaks so I can catch the morning light there, I bet is glorious scenery. What happened to me actually, I was driving around when I saw it from the road. When you see it from the far distance, first you will stare for some time and then you will stare more asking yourself is it real. It is, real and impressive. Castellfollit de la Roca, a small town on top of the volcanic rock makes you amazed for a long time after you leave, especially if you discover it while randomly driving around.

This place will not push the chills down your spine with crazy energy in the air, it will rather massage your senses for a while. As you start walking around, you have traditional narrow streets in every direction, here and there you can squeeze through the passages in between houses to make a “peek from the cliff”. Streets cannot hide their medieval origin
and for curious eyes, there are plenty of details everywhere. However, the real deal comes on the dead end of the cliff. Remarkable view, especially if you are lucky enough to have a nice sunny day. You can see far in the distance in all directions. Houses, fields, rivers, traffic, water management in the fields, people working, a life which is happening…a true fairytale. It feels like you can rule all of it from up there. Like a big board game in front of you with all elements on it. To make it even better, there is an old church of Saint Salvador almost at the edge and if you climb up to the tower you will not regret it. I didn’t. Church is beautiful and holds a lot of the heritage of the place. There you can see famous giants of this town. Up from the tower you can see all surroundings plus town roofs. It is interesting how all the houses have walls actually incorporated into the cliff very smoothly. Windows and balconies to wish for. Take your camera with you.

If you decide to stay for some time, surroundings of Castellfollit de la Roca will provide you beautiful nature with a lot of hiking options. Many places around can tell interesting stories. An old broken bridge with a lot of misfortune involved is one of those and history tells this town is inhibited for over 1000 years. Is really stunning how rich is this region in Spain when it comes to towns like this. Treasure chest for travelers.

If you search for a place which will entertain you for days, this is not a place for you. If you are passing by anywhere near this place, it is a huge must to stop and see it. Some hours, nice walk with a good meal at the end. Scenery which will bring a smile to your face every time you think about it. Nightlife is not existing I guess so better show up during the day. On the other hand, for someone who search for inspiring place to spend some time retreated, I can tell you this is an outstanding place.

I personally would not mind spending some time there relaxing in peace. Enjoying every morning your breakfast with this view is something which not many places can offer. Landscape just keeps you engaged somehow and solitude can be pleasurable. I wonder how it looks in the winter time. Perhaps I could have the whole town for myself. For sure is not for everyone but I have no doubt many people will appreciate the unique sensation this town can offer. I can’t stop wondering how it looks from the bottom in the early winter morning surrounded by a mist from Fluvià and Toronell… I wish I had more time to see it.