As October comes to an end, one of the most traditional and deeply rooted celebrations in Catalonia begins: la Castanyada. This festival, celebrated on All Saints’ Day, is a time for gathering with family and friends around a fire, sharing roasted chestnuts, sweet potatoes, and panellets, and remembering the roots of this very special tradition.
In centuries past, families would gather to remember the deceased by eating chestnuts, a fruit symbolizing strength and the earth’s abundance. The celebration was accompanied by religious rituals and communal gatherings where chestnuts, sweet potatoes, and panellets were always present, just as they are today.
Over the years, this tradition has evolved, but the spirit of remembrance and family reunion has remained unchanged. Today, La Castanyada is not only a way to keep Catalan culture alive but also the perfect excuse to enjoy nature and gastronomy. A great option is to take advantage of this festivity to plan a rural getaway to the Costa Brava or the Pyrenees of Girona.
The origin of La Castanyada has several explanations, but one of the most famous is linked to the legend of the bell-ringer. It is said that, in the past, on All Saints’ Day, the bell-ringers would toll the church bells throughout the night to guide the souls of the deceased to their resting place. This long and exhausting task required a lot of energy, so they would eat chestnuts, which are highly nutritious, accompanied by sweet wine and panellets. This way, the bell-ringers could endure the entire night.
It is also said that chestnut cones (the paper cones in which roasted chestnuts are served) became popular in family celebrations and town squares, where they were sold as hot and comforting food during the chilly autumn nights. Over time, this custom has been preserved, and today, roasted chestnuts remain the main feature of La Castanyada.
Additionally, the consumption of sweet wine and muscat perfectly accompanies the chestnuts, and together with the panellets, turns this celebration into a gastronomic feast deeply rooted in Catalan culture.
The main dish of the festival is chestnuts, traditionally roasted over the fire.
Cooked on the grill or in the oven, are a sweet and nutritious side dish that has always been part of this celebration.
Made with ground almonds, sugar, and potato, although the potato can also be substituted with egg whites or sweet potato, these small sweets are the perfect finishing touch.
If you want to experience a traditional Castanyada in a unique setting, our rural houses in Foixà and Molló are the ideal choice. At Rustic Find, we ensure you have everything you need to make your stay an unforgettable experience.
At El Roure, you’ll immerse yourself in a rustic and cozy atmosphere with stunning views of the mountains, which during autumn are painted in vibrant colors: reds, intense yellows, and browns, offering a natural spectacle for the eyes. To enjoy La Castanyada to its fullest, the outdoor barbecue is perfect for roasting chestnuts while you take in the surroundings. Inside, the fully equipped kitchen will captivate you, providing the perfect space to gather with family and make panellets with the little ones, all while enjoying the warmth of the fireplace. El Roure offers the perfect balance between tradition, comfort, and nature.
On the other hand, Mas Darovie offers a unique experience with its spacious and versatile areas, ideal for gatherings with friends or family during La Castanyada. With two large fireplaces inside, you can enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for creating unforgettable moments. The large kitchen is perfect for gathering the whole group to prepare panellets, while the spacious rooms are ideal for hosting celebrations such as Halloween, making Mas Darovie the perfect choice for fun and tradition-filled weekend getaways.
Imagine an autumn night, with the aroma of chestnuts roasting on the grill, while enjoying the peace and tranquility of rural tourism in the Baix Empordà or the Pyrenees of Girona. Additionally, if you’re in the mood to explore, you can enjoy hiking or cycling routes through the autumn landscapes, visiting forests where yellow and red leaves blanket the paths.
In addition to La Castanyada, All Saints’ Day has other customs that remain alive in Catalonia. In many regions, people visit cemeteries to remember their loved ones and decorate graves with flowers. It’s also common to attend local fairs or markets, where you can find seasonal products, from chestnuts to homemade panellets.
La Castanyada is a very popular festival in Catalonia, but similar celebrations can also be found in other regions of Spain and Europe. In northern Spain, especially in Galicia, they celebrate the Magosto, a festival where chestnuts are roasted and enjoyed with new wine. In Asturias, they have a tradition called Amagüestu, where chestnuts and cider take center stage.
Outside of Spain, in France and Italy, there are also traditions related to chestnuts, as this fruit has been a staple food in many rural areas for centuries. In Piedmont and Tuscany, for example, the chestnut harvest is a key moment for families to gather and celebrate the bounty of autumn.
Meanwhile, during the same period, the famous Halloween, a tradition that originated in Ireland and became popular in North America. While Halloween has a very different character, more focused on costumes, horror, and activities like “trick or treat”, it has gained popularity in recent years in Catalonia, especially among younger generations. Despite this, La Castanyada remains a deeply rooted and authentic tradition that continues to withstand the test of time and the influence of more global celebrations.
This year, take advantage of La Castanyada to reconnect with nature and enjoy a different experience with Rustic Find. Whether you’re staying at Mas Darovie or El Roure, we offer you a rural accommodation that will make you feel at home while you celebrate one of the most emblematic festivals of Catalan culture.
Don’t miss the chance to enjoy this tradition in a spectacular natural setting, with all the comforts of a well-equipped rural house. Book your rural getaway with Rustic Find and experience an unforgettable Castanyada!
This year, take advantage of La Castanyada to reconnect with nature and enjoy a different experience with Rustic Find. Whether you’re staying at Mas Darovie or El Roure<, we offer you a rural accommodation that will make you feel at home while you celebrate one of the most emblematic festivals of Catalan culture.
Don’t miss the chance to enjoy this tradition in a spectacular natural setting, with all the comforts of a well-equipped rural house. Book your rural getaway with Rustic Find and experience an unforgettable Castanyada!
In addition to La Castanyada, All Saints’ Day has other customs that remain alive in Catalonia. In many regions, people visit cemeteries to remember their loved ones and decorate graves with flowers. It’s also common to attend local fairs or markets, where you can find seasonal products, from chestnuts to homemade panellets.
La Castanyada is a very popular festival in Catalonia, but similar celebrations can also be found in other regions of Spain and Europe. In northern Spain, especially in Galicia, they celebrate the Magosto, a festival where chestnuts are roasted and enjoyed with new wine. In Asturias, they have a tradition called Amagüestu, where chestnuts and cider take center stage.
Outside of Spain, in France and Italy, there are also traditions related to chestnuts, as this fruit has been a staple food in many rural areas for centuries. In Piedmont and Tuscany, for example, the chestnut harvest is a key moment for families to gather and celebrate the bounty of autumn.
Meanwhile, during the same period, the famous Halloween celebration takes place around the world, a tradition that originated in Ireland and became popular in North America. While Halloween has a very different character, more focused on costumes, horror, and activities like “trick or treat”, it has gained popularity in recent years in Catalonia, especially among younger generations. Despite this, La Castanyada remains a deeply rooted and authentic tradition that continues to withstand the test of time and the influence of more global celebrations.
If you want to experience a traditional Castanyada in a unique setting, our rural houses in Foixà and Molló are the ideal choice. At Rustic Find, we ensure you have everything you need to make your stay an unforgettable experience.
At El Roure, you’ll immerse yourself in a rustic and cozy atmosphere with stunning views of the mountains, which during autumn are painted in vibrant colors: reds, intense yellows, and browns, offering a natural spectacle for the eyes. To enjoy La Castanyada to its fullest, the outdoor barbecue is perfect for roasting chestnuts while you take in the surroundings. Inside, the fully equipped kitchen will captivate you, providing the perfect space to gather with family and make panellets with the little ones, all while enjoying the warmth of the fireplace. El Roure offers the perfect balance between tradition, comfort, and nature.
On the other hand, Mas Darovie offers a unique experience with its spacious and versatile areas, ideal for gatherings with friends or family during La Castanyada. With two large fireplaces inside, you can enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for creating unforgettable moments. The large kitchen is perfect for gathering the whole group to prepare panellets, while the spacious rooms are ideal for hosting celebrations such as Halloween, making Mas Darovie the perfect choice for fun and tradition-filled weekend getaways.
Imagine an autumn night, with the aroma of chestnuts roasting on the grill, while enjoying the peace and tranquility of rural tourism in the Baix Empordà or the Pyrenees of Girona. Additionally, if you’re in the mood to explore, you can enjoy hiking or cycling routes through the autumn landscapes, visiting forests where yellow and red leaves blanket the paths.
The main dish of the festival is chestnuts, traditionally roasted over the fire.
Cooked on the grill or in the oven, are a sweet and nutritious side dish that has always been part of this celebration.
Made with ground almonds, sugar, and potato, although the potato can also be substituted with egg whites or sweet potato, these small sweets are the perfect finishing touch.
The origin of La Castanyada has several explanations, but one of the most famous is linked to the legend of the bell-ringer. It is said that, in the past, on All Saints’ Day, the bell-ringers would toll the church bells throughout the night to guide the souls of the deceased to their resting place. This long and exhausting task required a lot of energy, so they would eat chestnuts, which are highly nutritious, accompanied by sweet wine and panellets. This way, the bell-ringers could endure the entire night.
It is also said that chestnut cones (the paper cones in which roasted chestnuts are served) became popular in family celebrations and town squares, where they were sold as hot and comforting food during the chilly autumn nights. Over time, this custom has been preserved, and today, roasted chestnuts remain the main feature of La Castanyada.
Additionally, the consumption of sweet wine and muscat perfectly accompanies the chestnuts, and together with the panellets, turns this celebration into a gastronomic feast deeply rooted in Catalan culture.
In centuries past, families would gather to remember the deceased by eating chestnuts, a fruit symbolizing strength and the earth’s abundance. The celebration was accompanied by religious rituals and communal gatherings where chestnuts, sweet potatoes, and panellets were always present, just as they are today.
Over the years, this tradition has evolved, but the spirit of remembrance and family reunion has remained unchanged. Today, La Castanyada is not only a way to keep Catalan culture alive but also the perfect excuse to enjoy nature and gastronomy. A great option is to take advantage of this festivity to plan a rural getaway to the Costa Brava or the Pyrenees of Girona.
Rental of rural accommodations in connection with the most impressive natural environments in the province of Girona. Our mission is to offer our clients an authentic and enriching rural tourism experience, with a high quality service and the best price guaranteed.
© 2024 Copyright Rustic Find. All Rights Reserved.
© 2024 Copyright Rustic Find. All Rights Reserved.
