UN tourism honour for Rupit
Rupit, a medieval village of around 300 residents in the Osona region, has been designated one of the most beautiful villages in the world by the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), according to reporting by Regió 7 confirmed by local tourism and heritage data. Situated about an hour’s drive from Manresa and within the protected natural area of Collsacabra, Rupit combines historical architecture with dramatic landscapes, including forests, cliffs and waterfalls. The recognition highlights not only its visual appeal but also its commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism.
Historic charm and natural wonders
The village’s core dates from the 16th and 17th centuries, with stone-built houses featuring traditional red-tiled roofs and flower-decorated balconies. The Church of Sant Miquel, begun in 1729 and completed in 1734, stands in the heart of the old quarter, while the ruins of Castell de Rupit, classified as a cultural asset of national interest since 1949, reflect its medieval past. A key landmark is the Rupit Suspension Bridge, built in 1945 by local craftsmen including blacksmiths Francesc and Pere Rovira, stonemason Salvi Vila and foundry worker Joaquim Marsal. Spanning the Riera de Rupit in a deep gorge, the bridge connects parts of the village and has become a popular attraction for visitors.
Crossing the suspension bridge offers spectacular views of the river and surrounding forest, making it a highlight for families and hikers alike.
Hiking and local cuisine
Nature lovers can walk to Salt de Sallent, the tallest waterfall in Catalonia at over 100 metres. The 3-kilometre Itinerari del Salt del Sallent trail leads to a viewing point with panoramic views, especially impressive after rainfall. Other walking routes include the 5-kilometre Itinerari de les Fonts de Rupit and the 3-kilometre path to the Baroque-era Ermita de Santa Magdalena, restored in 1973. The Campanar de Rupit offers visitors a climb to nearly 30 metres for views across the village and surrounding cliffs. Local shops sell traditional coca d’anís, neules, cured meats and cheese. At Mas El Torrent, visitors can take part in guided farm visits with tastings of regional produce.
Practical visitor information
A large municipal car park at the village entrance includes four electric vehicle charging stations, supporting low-impact travel. Accommodation options in the area include rural apartments, guesthouses and holiday cottages, registered under Catalonia’s tourism housing framework. Businesses providing tourist lodging must register with the Mossos d’Esquadra via the Mossos Hotels portal. For those planning a visit, a self-guided walking tour called Descobreix Rupit is available via brochure from the local tourist office or online.
Primary sources: registreviatgers.mossos.gencat.cat. Reported by regio7.cat, recordrentacar.com, cottages-for-holidays.com, Regió 7.
