Attractions and Places To See around Vilanova De Sau - Top 20

Vilanova De Sau is rich in history, most notably featuring the iconic Church of Sant Romà de Sau (Submerged Bell Tower). This ancient Lombard church, dating back to the 11th century, is often seen with its bell tower protruding from the Sau Reservoir, a unique testament to the village it once stood in. Additionally, the nearby medieval Rupit Village offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved alleys and historic charm. You can also visit the beautiful Santuario de Puig-agut, a hermitage with unique architecture and a rich history.

The region is nestled within the Guilleries-Savassona Natural Park, offering diverse landscapes. The central natural feature is the Sau Reservoir itself, which provides stunning views and is surrounded by impressive cliffs and extensive forests. You can also find the Matagalls (1697 m) summit, an iconic hiking mountain in Catalonia known for its panoramic views without technical difficulty. The Ter Valley, where Vilanova de Sau is located, is characterized by its river and the reservoir, creating a beautiful natural environment.

Absolutely! Vilanova De Sau is a hub for active tourism. You can find numerous routes for hiking, cycling, and gravel biking. For cycling enthusiasts, explore options like the 'Coll del Buc (728 m) – Coll de Romegats loop' or the 'View of Sau Reservoir – Sant Joan de Fàbregues Church loop' by checking out the Cycling around Vilanova De Sau guide. If you prefer gravel biking, routes such as the 'Romegats Pass – Salto de la Miñona viewpoint loop' are available in the Gravel biking around Vilanova De Sau guide. There are also dedicated Running Trails around Vilanova De Sau, including a 'Running loop from Tavèrnoles'.

The best time to visit Vilanova De Sau for outdoor activities generally depends on the specific activity. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with lush landscapes and comfortable weather. Summer is ideal for water sports on the Sau Reservoir, though it can be warmer for strenuous hikes. The visibility of the submerged Church of Sant Romà de Sau's bell tower is highly dependent on the reservoir's water level, which fluctuates throughout the year, often becoming more visible during drier periods.

Yes, the region offers several family-friendly options. The charming Rupit Village, with its medieval atmosphere and natural surroundings, is a delightful place for families to explore. The Sau Reservoir itself provides opportunities for gentle walks along its shores and enjoying the scenic views. While specific family activity centers aren't highlighted, the natural parks and easy trails offer a great environment for families to enjoy the outdoors together.

For truly iconic views of the Sau Reservoir, especially featuring the submerged bell tower of the Church of Sant Romà de Sau, the Mirador del Pantano de Sau is highly recommended. This viewpoint offers essential and breathtaking perspectives of the reservoir and its unique landmark. Additionally, the Matagalls (1697 m) summit provides extensive panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including parts of the reservoir and the Guilleries-Savassona Natural Park.

The Church of Sant Romà de Sau (Submerged Bell Tower) is an incredibly significant landmark. It's an 11th-century Lombard church that was submerged when the Sau Reservoir was created in 1962. Its bell tower often emerges from the water, becoming fully visible during droughts. It holds the distinction of being recognized as the oldest church in the world preserved standing in water, serving as a poignant reminder of the village that once thrived there.

Yes, the Sau Reservoir is part of a system of three reservoirs along the Ter River. The Susqueda Reservoir is another significant one in the vicinity, offering beautiful views and opportunities for exploration. These reservoirs collectively manage the Ter River and are integral to the region's landscape and water resources.

Yes, the small medieval Rupit Village is a highly recommended visit. Dating back to the 15th century, it's known for its well-preserved alleys and unique naturally formed steps, offering a charming and authentic historical experience amidst beautiful natural surroundings.

The Guilleries-Savassona Natural Park, where Vilanova De Sau is situated, is renowned for its rich and varied landscapes. You can expect to see cork oak trees, numerous springs, impressive cliffs ('cingles'), and extensive forests. The park features beautiful and unique landscapes with tabular reliefs and cliffs of different colored rocks, interspersed with small agricultural areas, providing a diverse and picturesque setting for exploration.

Visitors particularly appreciate the unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The sight of the submerged Church of Sant Romà de Sau (Submerged Bell Tower) is often cited as a captivating and memorable experience. The panoramic views from summits like Matagalls (1697 m) and the charm of medieval villages like Rupit Village are also highly praised. The overall appeal lies in the region's ability to offer both serene natural escapes and fascinating cultural discoveries.