- List
Book a holiday home in Sant Esteve d'en Bas
-
Majordoms Famada is a restored 1850 Catalan casa rural sleeping 11 guests in 4 bedrooms, set in the quiet countryside...
- Barbecue
- Garden
- Pet-friendly
- Open-air parking
Everything you need to know about a holiday in Sant Esteve d'en Bas
What is Sant Esteve d'en Bas?
Sant Esteve d'en Bas is the main village and administrative centre of La Vall d'en Bas, a municipality in La Garrotxa comarca, in Girona Province, Catalonia. Set in a wide, fertile valley widely described as the most extensive and productive in all of Catalonia, Sant Esteve d'en Bas is a quiet rural village with a Romanesque church, traditional stone architecture, and an unhurried pace of life that feels a world away from the coast — yet is just under two hours from Barcelona.
The village sits at the heart of La Vall d'en Bas, surrounded by the other hamlets of the municipality — Hostalets d'en Bas, Sant Privat d'en Bas, Joanetes and Mallol — and backed by the volcanic mountains of La Garrotxa Natural Park. It is the ideal base for exploring the natural wonders of La Garrotxa, from the Puigsacalm summit to the beech forests and volcanic cones of the wider region. For visitors who want genuine rural Catalonia, Sant Esteve d'en Bas and La Vall d'en Bas deliver exactly that.
What to do in La Vall d'en Bas
The valley offers an excellent mix of outdoor activities, cultural heritage, and slow-travel experiences throughout the year.
Hiking Puigsacalm (1,515 m): The ascent of Puigsacalm is considered one of the great classic hikes of inland Catalonia. The summit rises above the valley and offers panoramic views across La Garrotxa, the Pyrenees, and on clear days as far as the coast. Multiple routes depart from the valley floor, making it accessible for walkers of varying ability.
Mountain biking: La Vall d'en Bas is increasingly popular with mountain bikers. The network of tracks, forest paths, and rural lanes crossing the valley and the surrounding ridges offers routes for all levels, from gentle family rides on flat terrain to demanding technical trails on the higher slopes.
Can Trona — Centre de Cultura i Natura: A museum and cultural centre dedicated to the natural and human history of the valley. Well worth a visit for anyone wanting to understand the landscape, the geology, and the rural traditions that have shaped La Vall d'en Bas over centuries.
Santuari del Far: A hilltop sanctuary above Sant Esteve d'en Bas, reached by a scenic road or on foot. The site offers outstanding views across the valley and beyond, and is a popular spot for an early morning or sunset visit.
Salt de la Coromina: A waterfall set in a forested ravine, accessible by a short walk from the valley. A peaceful spot and a good destination for families with children.
Mina dels Bandolers: A historic mine with an interesting local history connected to the bandit culture of 18th-century Catalonia. The surrounding lakeside and forest setting make for an enjoyable short walk.
Medieval villages: The small hamlets of the valley — particularly Joanetes, Sant Privat d'en Bas, and Hostalets d'en Bas — are ideal for a quiet afternoon stroll. Stone houses, Romanesque churches, and farmsteads that have changed little over generations.
What to do in the surrounding area
La Vall d'en Bas is exceptionally well positioned for day trips across a wide arc of inland Catalonia.
La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park (15 min): The most complete volcanic landscape in the Iberian Peninsula, centred on Olot. Over 40 volcanic cones and lava flows are protected within the park, and a network of well-maintained trails makes the geology accessible on foot. The Santa Margarida volcano and the Croscat scoria slopes are among the most impressive sites.
La Fageda d'en Jordà (15–20 min): A famous beech forest growing on an ancient lava field near the town of Olot. The flat, magical woodland — immortalised in Catalan poetry — is one of the most visited natural sites in Catalonia and is particularly spectacular in autumn.
Olot (15 min): The main city of La Garrotxa, with a lively market, excellent local food, the Garrotxa Museum, and a well-preserved historic centre. Olot is the culinary and commercial hub of the region and a good base for exploring the volcanic park.
Rupit (25 min): One of the best-preserved medieval villages in Catalonia, perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop above a gorge. The stone-built streets, hanging bridges, and surrounding beech forests make Rupit one of the most atmospheric places in inland Catalonia.
Besalú (25 min): A perfectly preserved medieval town with a famous multi-arched Romanesque bridge, a Jewish heritage site (the mikveh), and a compact historic centre that has changed little since the 12th century.
Vic (30 min): A historic market town with a fine Romanesque cathedral, an important Episcopal Museum, and one of the great Saturday markets in Catalonia. The town is also a gateway to the Collsacabra plateau.
Girona (50 min): A beautifully preserved medieval city with a walled old town, a Gothic cathedral, and the famous Barri Vell. Girona's food scene has grown internationally acclaimed in recent years, and the city is an easy half-day excursion from the valley.
Holiday rentals in Sant Esteve d'en Bas and La Vall d'en Bas with Els Majordoms
Els Majordoms manages a carefully selected portfolio of holiday rentals in Sant Esteve d'en Bas and throughout La Vall d'en Bas and La Garrotxa. Properties are chosen for their quality, authenticity, and ability to connect guests with the landscape and character of the valley. Whether you are a family looking for space and nature, a group of hikers planning a base for the Garrotxa trails, or travellers seeking an authentic rural Catalan experience, the valley offers something you will not find at the coast.
Every stay includes:
Cleaning and linen: Your property is prepared to a professional standard before arrival. Beds are made, towels are provided, and the accommodation is inspected before every stay.
Flexible self check-in: Via a secure key safe, so you can arrive at any time without waiting for a handover.
Reception support: Our team is available by phone, email, or WhatsApp before and during your stay, reachable until 23:00 on arrival day.
Local knowledge: We can recommend hiking routes, restaurants, local producers, seasonal events, and activities suited to your group's interests and fitness level.
Best price when booking direct: Reserving through our website at reserva.elsmajordoms.com gives you the best available rate and the most flexible conditions.
Book your stay in Sant Esteve d'en Bas
Browse available dates and book directly at reserva.elsmajordoms.com. Booking direct gives you the best price, the most flexible conditions, and direct access to our reception team from the moment you confirm. We look forward to welcoming you to Sant Esteve d'en Bas and La Vall d'en Bas.