Fornells de la Selva

CityCatalonia, Spain

Fornells de la Selva is a CITY in Catalonia, Spain.

Nestled in the heart of Catalonia's Gironès region, Fornells de la Selva is a charming inland village that offers a peaceful escape from the coastal crowds. Surrounded by rolling hills and cork oak forests, it's a haven for hikers and nature lovers. The village itself boasts a rich history, with a 12th-century Romanesque church, Sant Cugat, and a medieval castle now converted into a luxury hotel. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets, enjoy traditional Catalan cuisine at local restaurants, and soak in the authentic rural atmosphere. Despite its tranquility, Fornells is just a 15-minute drive from the vibrant city of Girona and about 30 minutes from the Costa Brava beaches, making it an ideal base for exploring both inland and coastal Catalonia.

Best time to visit Fornells de la Selva

The best time to visit is from April to June and September to October. Spring offers mild temperatures (15-25°C) and blooming wildflowers, ideal for hiking. Autumn is similarly pleasant with harvest festivals. July and August can be hot (30°C+) and crowded with tourists heading to the coast. Winter (November-February) is cooler (5-15°C) and quieter, perfect for a peaceful retreat.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Mild 12-22°C

Travel notes

Crowds
Low
Prices
Low

Autumn colours, pleasant

Know before you go

Getting there

GRO

Girona-Costa Brava Airport

International

12 km away

BCN

Barcelona-El Prat Airport

International

100 km away

PGF

Perpignan-Rivesaltes Airport

International

110 km away

Getting around

"The village is compact and walkable. For exploring the region, renting a car is most convenient. Buses connect Fornells to Girona city centre (line 152) with a journey time of about 30 minutes. Taxis are available but can be expensive. Cycling is popular on local roads. Girona's train station offers connections to Barcelona and the French border."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in hotels and cafes; free in some public areas

Local SIM

Local SIM available at Girona airport from €5

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe; petty crime is rare.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe; petty crime is rare.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Fornells de la Selva is a very safe village with low crime rates. Petty theft can occur in touristy areas, so keep valuables secure. At night, the village is quiet and well-lit. Be cautious on rural roads, especially when hiking, as some trails can be uneven. Wild boar are present in the surrounding forests; avoid approaching them. Overall, it's a safe destination for solo travellers, families, and seniors."

Entry and health

Health information

"Healthcare in Spain is excellent. EU citizens should bring a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for state-provided care. Non-EU visitors need comprehensive travel insurance. The nearest hospital is Hospital Universitari de Girona Dr. Josep Trueta, about 15 km away. Pharmacies (farmàcies) are well-stocked and marked with a green cross. Tap water is safe to drink, but many locals prefer bottled water. No specific vaccinations are required, but routine vaccines should be up to date."

Culture

Local customs

"Catalans greet with a handshake or two kisses on the cheek (right then left) among acquaintances. Dress is casual but neat; avoid beachwear in town. Lunch (dinner) is typically from 1:30-3:30 PM, and dinner from 9-11 PM. Tipping is not obligatory but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated. Respect quiet hours (siesta) from 2-5 PM in residential areas."
Spanish (official)CatalanGalicianBasqueAraneseSpanish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$12 | a cheap local meal costs ~$12

Hotels

$60-100 | budget hotels range $60-100/night

Local transport

$2 | local bus ride ~$2

Cost notes

Prices are lower than Barcelona or coastal resorts.

Timezone

Europe/Madrid
Local time 18:05

More facts

Population

1,823

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Fornells

Major HubHistoricHikingFamily-FriendlyRuralCultural