10 proposals for Holy Week in Girona

Easter is synonymous with tradition: processions, the manaies, representations of the "Passion of Christ" and family gatherings. It's also a good time to do outdoor activities taking advantage of the longer days and more pleasant temperatures. For all these reasons, we suggest 10 plans to get to know the most deep-rooted traditions of Easter and some outdoor activities ideal for this time of year.

1. The Processions and the Manaies

The processions are some of the most traditional events of this period. The starting signal for Easter in Girona area is with the Procession of Sorrows which takes place on the Friday before Good Friday in towns such as Mieres and Banyoles in the Pla de l'Estany region, in Besalú in La Garrotxa and in Amer in the Selva region.


The most popular and significant processions are the Processions of the Holy Burial. These are held on Good Friday in cities such as Girona. During the processions you can also see the Manaies or armed parade. Some of the best known and most numerous Manaies processions are those of Girona, Banyoles, Sant Hilari Sacalm, Verges and Amer.

2. Camins de Ronda

Camins de Ronda are hiking itineraries that follow the coastfrom Blanes to Portbou. A good opportunity to enjoy the fabulous views of the Costa Brava coastline and discover some of the most hidden coves. In our post on the camí de ronda we suggest 7 sections of the walking path of low / moderate intensity.

3. Dance of the Death in Verges (Baix Empordà)

The procession in Verges takes place on Holy Thursday. The medieval town of Verges is the setting for this theatrical representation of the last days of Jesus' life. The procession is made up of different groups, including the manaies. Although what makes it more special and unique in Europe is the Dance of Death, since it is the only municipality in Europe that preserves this dance with origins in the medieval period.

4. Visit to Cap de Creus Natural Park (Alt Empordà)

Cap de Creus Natural Park is the largest protected area in Catalonia. There are plenty of things to do in the park: enjoy the views from the Cap de Creus Lighthouse, go hiking on the Camí Ronda or the GR-11 inland route, visit some of the most emblematic coves or walk around Cap Norfeu. Nearby there are charming towns not to be missed, such as El Port de la Selva, Llançà or Cadaqués.

5. Living stations of the Cross in Sant Hilari Sacalm (La Selva)

For over 300 years, the Living Stations of the Cross have been held in Sant Hilari Sacalm on Good Friday. A tradition passed down from parents to children and that is performed in the streets of the town. The most representative and moving scene takes place on the outskirts of the village: the crucifixion of Jesus on the cross (calvary). A whole show of music and lighting that will captivate you.

6. Excursion to the Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park (Alt Empordà)

The Aiguamolls de l'Empordà (wetlands of the Empordà), located between the mouths of the rivers Muga and Fluvià, is an ideal place for a family day out and where you can also go bird watching, as it is one of the natural spaces in Catalonia where you can see the greatest variety of animal species.

7. The Horn Dance of Cornellà de Terri (Pla de l'Estany)

Cornellà de Terri celebrates its major festivity during Easter. Traditionally, the events of the town festival of Cornellà de Terri revolves around the planting of the May tree. The most popular event of the festivities is the dance called the Horn Dance which takes place on Easter Monday. The origin of this peculiar dance is not very clear, but in 1999 it was declared a Traditional Festival of National Interest by the Government of Catalonia.

8. A trip around the lake of Banyoles (Pla de l'Estany)

The best way to discover and get to know Banyoles Lake is to walk around its entire perimeter, entering natural corners that offer you a very different view of the Lake at every step. The full route around the lake is 8 km so it's important to wear good shoes!

9. Bunyols de l'Empordà

Bunyols de l'Empordà (fritters) are the typical desserts from Girona area and Costa Brava between Lent and Easter. You can buy them at any bakery or pastry shop in the area, but if you like to cook, you can look up the recipe on the internet and spend an afternoon preparing and cooking your fritters.

10. Visit medieval towns

Visit some of the best-preserved medieval towns that will transport you back in time and where you can get lost among their stones and history. Some of them have been the setting for films or television series.


Make the most of the good weather to do outdoor activities, enjoy nature and the surroundings of our houses. During rainy days, be creative and look for alternatives for group fun such as board game afternoons.