Casavells can be explored from two different perspectives: its Romanesque and medieval architectural history, and routes that follow rivers, cross the volcanic Puig Rodó, and pass through orchards and fields. Sant Genís de Casavells gives the cultural focus a tangible architectural form; the routes offer several ways to experience the landscape. You can therefore tailor your stay according to whether architectural history or the choice of scenic routes better suits your interests.
Romanesque Church and Medieval Heritage
The single-nave Romanesque church of Sant Genís de Casavells has a semicircular apse and dates to the 12th or 13th century. “Single-nave” describes a church interior with one main nave; together with the semicircular apse, this gives a clear idea of the building’s design. The dating adds a timeframe to these architectural features. Sant Genís de Casavells is also listed as an inventoried cultural asset by the Ministry of Culture of the Generalitat de Catalunya. The fortified wall of Casavells is classified as a medieval BCIN. The church and wall thus offer two distinct points of interest if you are interested in the Romanesque and medieval heritage of Casavells.
Archaeological Traces and Festival Tradition
Archaeological work in November 2023 and 2024 made it possible to document five historic cemeteries in Casavells. Forty-four graves were identified in the necropolis of Casavells. A late medieval double grave is attributed to the “Lovers of Casavells.” The findings thus range from several historic cemeteries to a single grave with a special attribution.
The Festa Major of Casavells and Matajudaica includes, among other events, a shared dinner and a concert in Casavells on Friday. In addition to architectural history and archaeological traces, the festival is another cultural point of interest. If you would like the Festa Major to shape your travel dates, check the exact festival date in advance.
Routes and Landscape
Local routes follow rivers, cross the volcanic Puig Rodó, and pass through orchards and fields. Different landscape features come to the fore depending on the route. You can choose based on these specific settings, from river courses to agricultural areas.
A 72 km cycling route runs from Casavells via Santa Pellaia, Sant Andreu de Salou, and els Àngels, then back to Casavells; an elevation gain of 1,050 m is indicated for this route. Another local route is the 34 km, flat “Casavells- Arrossars i cap a casa.” These two routes offer a concrete comparison: the cycling route is longer and has an indicated elevation gain, while the second route is shorter and described as flat. You can take the distance and the stated elevation details into account when choosing.
Getting to Casavells
To get to Casavells, take the C-252 regional road from La Bisbal d’Empordà towards Figueres and Portbou. Casavells is 1.8 km from the start of this road, which is on the regional road from Girona to Palamós. These road connections offer clear directions for your journey.
For the broader travel overview: Corçà.
