Category: Tourism

Bike routes, ecotourism, family activities, restaurants, Tourism, Weekend escapes

Delta del Ebro

Summer is over but we still have more plans to recommend you! And it is that a few hours from Barcelona we find the wonderful Delta del Ebro Natural Park.

Located in Tarragona, it is one of the most curious places in the Catalan geography. Just 130km from Barcelona, it is one of the best plans you can do to say goodbye to summer and enjoy incredible views and exquisite cuisine. It was declared a National Park in 1983 and currently has more than 7,000 hectares that make up the Biosphere Reserve of the Ebro Lands.

With an area of 320 km2, the Delta del Ebro Natural Park is the largest wetland in Catalonia, constituting one of the most important aquatic habitats in the Mediterranean.

There are endless activities to do and get to know this wonderful site. In this post we will detail some of the most typical and must-see visits for a dream vacation or getaway.

HOW TO GET THERE?

BY CAR

The most agile and comfortable way to get to Delta del Ebro is by car from Barcelona directly on the AP-7 motorway, taking one of the following exits:

  • 39A (l’Ampolla), continue on the N-340 and take the TV-3401 to Deltebre.
  • 40 (l’Aldea / Tortosa), continue along the N-340 and take the TV-3400 to Deltebre.
  • 41 (Amposta / Sant Carles de la Ràpita) and continue on TV-3454 to Deltebre.

BY TRAIN

If you decide to visit it by train, you will need another means of transport to get there since the stations are not located in the same municipality. The closest are:

  • L’Aldea-Amposta-Tortosa: medium-distance trains and some long-distance trains stop.
  • L’Ampolla-El Perelló-Deltebre: medium-distance trains stop.
  • Camarles-Deltebre: medium-distance trains stop.

BY BUS

The bus company in the area is called Hife and it runs regular routes to multiple daily destinations including Barcelona and Tarragona. It also communicates the different populations of the Delta del Ebro with each other. On their website you can check the schedules that best suit you.

WHAT TO VISIT?

PUNTA DEL FANGAR

The Delta del Ebro Natural Park houses several protected areas with total or partial restricted access. One such area is Punta del Fangar, a 400-hectare peninsula in the north of the Delta where terns and seagulls habitually nest. The most striking thing about this landscape is its desert appearance, with its peculiar mobile dunes stretching for 6 km along the sea.

BUDDHA ISLAND

It is located at the eastern end of the Delta, has more than a thousand hectares of surface and about five kilometers in length. It is the largest island in Catalonia.

Because entry is restricted and authorization is required to enter, it is a very special place that preserves its wild and indigenous style.

However, there are several options to be able to see the Buddha Island without having to enter:

You will only be able to see the interior if you decide to visit it on June 29, which is when La Romería de San Pedro is celebrated and you can freely enter the interior; or if you stay in the farmhouse on the island of Buddha. It is a Valencian-style farmhouse built at the end of the 19th century, when the island was populated by settlers and local people to cultivate rice fields. Apart from the house, the farmhouse is made up of a small church and some agricultural warehouses.

EL TRABUCADOR BEACH

El Trabucador is a huge sand bar where you can find two different beaches: an outdoor beach, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, and an indoor beach, in the Bay of Alfaques. It is the area of the Delta where more water activities are carried out due to the shallow water depth, in such a way that it is ideal for all those people who are starting in this type of activities without much difficulty.

From the pier, you can see a magnificent sunset that connects with the mountains of the town of San Carlos de la Rápita or “Les Salines de la Trinidad”.

Access to the Trabucador beach is free throughout the year except in July and August.

RICE FIELDS

65% of the surface of the Ebro Delta is dedicated to rice cultivation. This crop requires flood conditions in fresh water throughout the growth period of the plant, which goes from April to September approximately.

During the months of October and November, when the rice is already harvested and the fields are flooded, they are colonized by thousands and thousands of aquatic birds that pass by in migration or begin their wintering.

Rice fields are undoubtedly the most typical landscape and the emblem of the delta, which gives it color and aroma throughout the year.

At the beginning of October the festival of the rice harvest is celebrated, which allows us to observe the artisan way of collecting the grains with the typical carts. Around the same dates, a gastronomic fair takes place in the Delta where you can enjoy all the culinary varieties of this product.

ACTIVITIES

Among the most outstanding activities we find:

  • Kayak: you can rent a kayak and go on various routes both in the delta and in Amposta or Sant Jaume d’Enveja.
  • Fishing: you can rent one of the boats in the fishing centers of the municipality or go on one of their fishing trips. It is also highly recommended to walk through the fishing port of San Carles de la Ràpita since it is one of the most important fishing ports in the Mediterranean, as it still houses a fleet of about a hundred units between small boats of minor gear and large boats of drag.
  • Sailing: the two bays, dels Alfacs and el Fangar, allow you to navigate safely using the full force of the wind, which is why athletes from other regions and regions come very often to practice sailing.
  • Hiking: there are many routes to enjoy nature and the environment of the delta, here you will find some suggested ones.
  • Cycle tourism: the Park has several itineraries of varying lengths and thanks to its completely flat orography, the practice of cycle tourism is facilitated.
  • Birdwatching: it is one of the most famous and recommended activities to do. At the end of September the Delta Birding Festival is held, which welcomes fans from all over the world. In the Món Natura site, various recreational and educational activities are offered to learn about salt, traditional fishing and bird watching and learn about the species.
  • Kitesurfing: the calm and shallow waters of Badia dels Alfacs, closed by this arm of land that forms the Delta de l’Ebre and also the Riumar beach area in Deltebre, have the ideal wind to practice this sport.
  • Diving: L’Ametlla de Mar is home to the most extensive Posidonia meadow in Catalonia and, for the most expert, there is the possibility of discovering up to twelve sunken boats in the waters of Golf de Sant Jordi, on the coast of Terres de l ‘ Ebre.
  • Wine tourism: the family wineries have opened their doors to the visitor to publicize the wine-making process, as well as their work philosophy. In Terra Alta, you will find the majority of wineries, some of them with a centuries-old tradition.
  • Cruise through the delta: you can take different routes with various companies to travel and enjoy the Delta by boat, among them the most famous are: visiting the mouth of the Ebro river, a trip along the Migjorn river and a trip from Sant Carles de la Ràpita.

GASTRONOMY

In the Delta del Ebro you can find both top-level restaurants and good quality restaurants at very affordable prices.

Some recommendations are:

This restaurant is a must-see in the Ebro Delta. Its chef, Vicent Guimerà, integrates the best of Delta, local and local products with haute cuisine with incredible results.

Another of the top restaurants in the area, with always top quality products, both rice and the other dishes on the menu, which are adapted according to the market and season or depending on the gastronomic days in the area.

Restaurant with more than half a century of experience in the world of hotels and restaurants. A combination of service, history, product, facilities, location and above all the added value of offering the best quality fish and seafood products. The restaurant has a conservatory overlooking the sea in a cozy atmosphere.

One of the best cuisines in the Delta, it combines traditional cuisine with typical dishes and the best selection of wines by Joan Faiges.

The chef, Xavi Montanyés, the youngest son of the family, has managed to collect the best of the products of the Ebro Delta and elevate them to haute cuisine. Together with his father, he cooks the best lobster soup in the region. A lot of quality at a good price.

Family restaurant where you can savor and discover all the typical cuisine of the Ebro Delta such as rice dishes (paella, arrossejat, rice with duck, rice with lobster, black rice, blue crab and galley) although the star dish is the stew with rice stock. The most striking thing about this restaurant is its location with wonderful views of the rice fields.

Bike routes, family activities, Tourism

Ibiza in summer

Little by little, tourism is reactivated in Spain and Ibiza could not be missing in your bucket list of destinations to visit from Barcelona. A city declared a World Heritage Site, idyllic coves, charming towns, places with a lot of history and unique natural spaces are some of the things to see in Ibiza. In this new post we leave you the best beaches and coves on the island, where to eat and what to do or visit if you decide to enjoy this Balearic wonder on vacation or at any other time of the year.

CALAS

BENIRRÀS

Cala Benirràs is one of the must-sees in Ibiza, whether with family, friends or as a couple. Surrounded by mountains full of green pine trees, on Sundays it becomes a meeting point for hundreds of people who participate or simply contemplate its famous drum festival. At dusk, just before sunset, the left end of the beach becomes an improvised stage where the show is assured. While some play the timpani, others dance, take photographs or drink while they contemplate the sarao, which lasts until the sun goes down. There are many who assure that this exhibition is one of the few that maintains the hippie essence that surrounded Ibiza in the 70s.

CALA D´HORT

Cala d’Hort is a small and charming beach at the same time, from which you can enjoy the views over the mysterious islet of Es Vedrà, which rises only a few hundred meters from the shore. The beach has fine sand at one end and is rockier at the other, and is very popular in summer. Protected by a cliff, it is located at the end of a steep slope where the main access road ends.

CALA SALADA

Surrounded by hills of pine forest, the small sandy cove of Cala Salada is a preferred destination for island people and private boat owners. The water is beautiful and clear, shallow and perfect for swimming. The seabed is mostly soft sand. On the rock ledge to the right of the cove there is a very picturesque stone tower with paths that take you to the top of the neighboring sandy beach of Cala Saladeta. The first has a more family atmosphere, while the second is somewhat younger. The latter is due to its complicated access and the fact that it does not have any service.

CALA COMTE

It has spectacular views of islets such as s’Illa d’es Bosc, s’Espartar or ses Bledes, but the most impressive is undoubtedly sa Conillera. This, together with the reflection that the sun brings to the water of this cove full of areas of white sand and rocks will make you get one of the most special photographs of your vacation. There is no one who does not remain speechless when contemplating an image of the beach, hence its name in Ibiza is ‘Platges de Comte’ (fairytale beaches). The two main beaches are separated by the most bohemian temples of Ibiza’s sunsets. Sunset Ashram Restaurant enjoys fabulous panoramic views from its commanding position, and features a creatively designed structure that blends in with the rock it sits on.

SES SALINES

Ses Salines is the quintessential beach of Ibiza, not only because it is located in the Natural Park (declared as such in 2001) protected by a crown of dunes, but because in this area the purity and transparency of the waters, thanks to the Posidonia Oceánica, included in the declaration of World Heritage Site.

The territory of the reserve covers almost 3,000 land and 13,000 marine hectares, and extends through the south of Ibiza and the north of Formentera, also occupying the arm of the sea that separates them. From here comes the famous “Sal de Ibiza”.

Nearby is Es Cavallet, noted for being the island’s first nudist beach with an extensive sandy area topped by a defensive earthen tower.

CALCALA XARRACA

Attractive cove at the foot of a small cliff of red earth, with small islets in front. It has a group of houses on the right bank, among which a chalet with a stone tower stands out. The landscape is very attractive and the surrounding coastline offers many secluded nooks and crannies.

SA CALETA

Sa Caleta is a quiet and different beach, away from the large expanses of white sands where hammocks and umbrellas crowd. The beach is protected by reddish earth cliffs, creating a feeling of complete isolation due to its horseshoe shape. It is of fine sand, with clean and shallow waters, ideal for families with children, and it is also great for snorkeling.

BEACHES

ES CANAR

The tourist area of Es Canar is one of the most important in the municipality of Santa Eulària and concentrates numerous hotels and multiple services. It stretches from Cala Nova beach to Punta Arabí, where a popular hippy market is held every Wednesday. Es Canar beach occupies its central area. It is of fine sand, with a small port for boats and llaüts on the right side, next to the more urbanized area.

CALA BOIX

The dark sand beaches are atypical in Ibiza and Cala Boix is characterized by being the only one on the entire island. It is located on the edge of a cliff, on which several restaurants are located and access is through steep steps. Downstairs there is also a small beach bar, as well as deck chairs and umbrellas.

CALA LLONGA

This is the beach of the small and popular resort of Cala Llonga, accessible by zigzagging roads with spectacular views. Wide and sandy ground, it borders the picturesque bay with hills of lush pine forests on either side

ES VEDRÀ

At almost 400 meters high, this rocky, uninhabited limestone island is located 2 km off the west coast of Ibiza, right in front of the Cala d’Hort beach. It is a mandatory visit and luckily it has many viewpoints to enjoy its wonderful majesty. It is said to be the third most magnetic point on earth (after the North Pole and the Bermuda Triangle). The best location to see a magical sunset in the Es Vedrá area is from Cala d’Hort or one of the bars right on the beach. Another perfect option, and not so crowded, is from the Torre des Savinar, also known as the Torre del Pirata.

GASTRONOMY

Like most places in Spain, Ibiza has an exquisite gastronomy. When you visit it, you should not return without trying its most typical dishes: guisat de peix, bullit de peix, arroz de matanzas, peix en salmorra, borrida de ratjada, sofrit pagès and fried octopus. Also, if you prefer sweet, you should try these tasty desserts: flaó, greixonera and orelletes.

DALT VILA

The old walled citadel of Dalt Vila (literally, “upper town“) rests on a small hill next to the sea and overlooking the city. Founded and baptized by the Phoenicians as Ibosim, it was one of the most important coastal cities in the Mediterranean, which is why it has had several settlers throughout history. The wall that surrounds the citadel dates from the Renaissance, and was built by Kings Carlos I and Felipe II to defend the city from French and Ottoman invasions.

In Dalt Vila you will find countless magical corners where you can take spectacular photos. There are three routes that go up and the Tourist Office offers free guides so you can get lost in this labyrinth of alleys. You will find several information plates that will guide you on the way up, so that you can learn all the details and curiosities about the citadel at your own pace.

There is a wide range of restaurants in Dalt Vila. The terrace of the La Plaza restaurant, in the Plaza de Vila is a perfect option for a romantic dinner. If you keep going up to the Plaza del Sol, you will find the small bar-restaurant S’Escalinata, with fabulous panoramic views, where you can relax on its poufs distributed along the cobbled steps.

MARKETS

LAS DALIAS

With more than 30 years of history, Las Dalias is one of the island’s classics. It is located in Sant Carles, in the north of the island.

In the afternoon and evening the atmosphere is lively with live music, concerts and DJ sessions. The night version is held in summer: they are on Mondays and Tuesdays from June to September, and on Sundays in July and August. At Easter and at Christmas special markets are also organized.

PUNTA ARABÍ

Created in 1973, the Punta Arabí market is the largest on the island. Among the more than 500 stalls that are set up on Wednesdays, you can find original articles from different parts of the world, as well as crafts, fashion, natural cosmetics, musical instruments, costume jewelery, etc.

It has a children’s area, the “Hippie Kids” beach bar, where children can participate in recycling workshops, learn to design their own t-shirt or make a flower crown. In the multicultural tent there is music and live performances from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

SANT JORDI

This second-hand market takes place on Saturday mornings at the old racecourse in the town of Sant Jordi, in the south of the island, and is preferred by the island’s residents.To get local crafts, there are two particularly recommended markets: San Rafael (in the interior) and Sant Joan de Labritja (to the north). They also sell agricultural products from the area and organic food. Another place where it is possible to buy local and naturally produced products is the Forada market (Buscastell, Sant Antoni de Portmany, in the west).

ESCAPE TO FORMENTERA

If you have enough time during your stay in Ibiza, we recommend spending a day visiting Formentera. Despite being one of the smallest islands in the Balearic Islands, there you can enjoy a large number of attractions that will make the visit worthwhile. These are some of the places you should not miss: Saona cove, Ses Illetes, the Barbaria lighthouse, Els Arenals, the Mola lighthouse and the Ses Salines Natural Park. To get to Formentera you can take one of the ferries that leave from the port of Ibiza. To explore this virgin island you have multiple options, among them we recommend renting a car, motorcycle or bicycle, since the island has a bike lane and trails that are fully suitable for traveling on two wheels.

Around Us, Family, family activities, News, Tourism, Weekend escapes

What to visit in easter in Catalunya

With the arrival of Easter, we want to recommend you some of the most beautiful towns in Catalonia, which, to this day, are still frozen in medieval times, still preserving their cobbled streets, their arches, the stone balconies or towers . All of them are towns full of charming corners that take us back several centuries

MONTBLANC

Montblanc is a town located in the province of Tarragona, whose origins date back to the year 1080 and which, today, preserves the largest walled enclosure in Catalonia and a walk through its streets will take you back to the Middle Ages.

You can visit its stately towers, gates, sharp walls and a Romanesque bridge that make Montblanc an epic town with a 100% medieval atmosphere, as well as visit the monasteries of Poblet, Vallbona de les Monges and Santes Creus.

The Tourist Office conducts guided tours to discover the medieval history of this town. We highlight the Montblanc Medieval Week (coinciding with Sant Jordi, at the end of April). There is a cavalry school, exhibitions of medieval trades and a fabulous representation of the legend of Sant Jordi, among other activities. In addition, there are curious museums, such as the Nativity Scene Museum, the Wine Museum or the Rock Art Interpretation Center.

BESALÚ

If you want to discover the architectural heritage of Girona (just 30km from Girona), we recommend visiting the famous town of Besalú. The monumental importance of this is fundamentally given by its great value as a whole, by its unity, which determines it as one of the most important and unique samples of the medieval ensembles of Catalonia.

The historical origin of Besalú is a fortress that already existed in the 10th century, and today you will find corners that will remind you of the typical medieval town in which, in addition, there was a Jewish quarter.

Without any doubt, you should visit the medieval bridge of Besalú, as it is the most emblematic monument of the site with almost 150 meters in length. It was built in the 12th century. In addition, we recommend visiting the Jewish baths, the church of the monastery of San Pedro de Besalú and San Julián, a former pilgrim hospital, the Cornellá house, the church of San Vicente and the Gothic room of the Royal Curia Palace.

The beauty of its streets have turned Besalú into a film set. It hosted the filming of the third season of the HBO series Westworld, in addition to being chosen as a location for Game of Thrones or the movie Perfume.

PERATALLADA

Peratallada is one of the towns on the Girona coast that has a special charm, since all its corners are beautiful and authentic. It was declared a Historic-Artistic Site for being one of the most important and best-preserved medieval architecture center in Catalonia.

Among the most important elements, the fortress castle stands out, formed by the fortified nucleus and the keep, as well as the palace and the walls. The castle dates from the 11th and 12th centuries, although it has undergone subsequent reforms. The walls are from the 12th and 13th centuries. The great moat that surrounds the town, dug into the living rock, is surprising, since Peratallada sits on stoneware rock.

The two main squares of the town are Les Voltes, a beautiful arcaded square, and Castell, in front of the castle and the palace. Both are surrounded by narrow streets and stone houses that are very well preserved and decorated with flowers.

Outside the walled enclosure, we recommend a visit to the Romanesque-style parish church of San Esteban, which contains a Gothic tomb from 1348 inside.

As an interesting fact, there is a curious ice cream shop, Gelat Artesà de Peratallada, where they make totally artisan ice cream and it is famous for its quality and for the originality of its flavors, such as Roquefort or L’Escala anchovies.

CAMPODRON

Camprodon is located in Girona and the Pyrenean landscape of this town has great appeal for hikers and is ideal for skiing in winter. The town still preserves old castles and fortifications as part of its heritage.

It has its origin in the monastery of San Pere and in an old market granted in 1118 by Ramón Berenguer III known as the Great, and who was a nobleman of the time.

One of the greatest charms in Camprodon is its old town and its streets, many of them still with traces of the old stones, present both in the houses and on the ground. Even so, it is also interesting to visit El Puente Nuevo de Camprodon, which is undoubtedly the best-known architectural element in the entire town. Built in the 12th century, it is 66 meters long. Another very interesting place to visit is the Monastery of San Pedro (10th century) and the Church of Santa María.

The town of Camprodon stands out for its specialties in pork sausages, such as bull, sausage, ham, etc. Likewise, their cookies and marzipans are known. The biscuits manufactured by the Birba company are the best known outside the municipality.

TALAMANCA

Talamanca is a charming and very beautiful town to visit from Barcelona (60km away).

Although remains of Iberian deposits have been found, the first news of their existence dates from the year 960 when Salla, the founder of the monastery of San Benito de Bages, made a donation of land at the end of the Castle of Talamanca. Between 878 and 897, peasants from the north settled near castles and churches and repopulated the area. At that time the Castle of Talamanca and the Church of Santa María de Talamanca were founded, which gave rise to the current town of Talamanca.

This town is characterized above all by being a destination for tourism on weekends and holidays. It is a small town, but you can visit the ruins of the castle and the church of Santa María, as well as the vineyards and the natural park of Sant Llorenç del Munt i l’Obac.

TAVERTET

Tavertet is a small town of just over 150 inhabitants but with a notable prehistoric activity, since vestiges of the Neolithic era, the megalithic tomb, the field of funeral urns and the Iberian wall were found. The Tavertet cliff offers a breathtaking panorama, which can be seen from the town’s viewpoint and represents one of the most emblematic and beautiful images of the territory.

The main architectural attraction to see in Tavertet is the Church of Sant Cristófol de Tavertet, which is part of the Romanesque routes of Osona. The original building dates from the 11th century and the current bell tower was built during the first renovations in the 12th and 13th centuries.

Another great attraction of this town are its 50 houses and the stone walkways built between the 17th and 19th centuries, which have made the urban nucleus declared an Asset of Cultural Interest by the Generalitat of Catalonia.

Tavaret has El Mirador del Pla del Castell, which is a mandatory stop, since it offers us spectacular views of Las Guilleries, Montseny and the Sau reservoir.

Tourism, Weekend escapes

Summer escapes: Costa Brava

Costa Brava is the name assigned to the Spanish coastal zone that begins in Blanes and ends at the French border in Portbou. Located in the province of Girona, it has an area of 214km and is comprised of the Catalan regions of Alt Empordá, Baix Empordá and La Selva.

Here you will find our selection of the most beautiful places that are a must to visit and enjoy every summer.

TOSSA DE MAR

Tossa is an old fishing village that has now become a popular tourist destination. The walled area of Vila Vella is the emblem of the municipality and was declared a national historical-artistic monument in 1931. At the highest point of the site there had been a castle, which consisted of a watchtower and a rectangular room. . Currently it does not exist, since the current lighthouse of Tossa de Mar was built in its place.

Tossa de Mar gives off sun, beach and lots of relaxation, its best-known beach is Playa Gran, right in the center of the town and among the most famous coves are: Cala Pola, Cala Giverola and Cala Llevadó.

SANT FELIU DE GUÍXOLS

Sant Feliu de Guíxols has a multitude of coves and beaches with exceptional characteristics, among which the Bay of Sant Feliu and the Playa de Sant Pol stand out, with their characteristic bathhouses.

They are beaches where apart from enjoying the bath and the sun, you can practice many nautical activities to discover the seabed or enjoy the charm of the small coves, doing scuba diving, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, paddle surfing, snorkeling.

The architectural ensemble of the Benedictine monastery is the greatest heritage exponent of the population. It preserves elements as important as its oldest part, the Romanesque Porta Ferrada (10th century), which has also become a symbol for the music festival that is held every year “International Festival of Porta Ferrada” that combines music, theater and dance.

It is located very close to S’Agaró where it can be reached by crossing the famous coastal path: a historical path that was created with the basic functionalities of communicating the different towns, beaches and coves of the coast, at the same time guaranteeing fishermen and Cabotage sailors return to the ports of origin in the event that their boat was shipwrecked against the coastal rocks, but above all it was used to control smuggling and the black market or maritime market by the state authorities.

PALAMÓS

Palamós responds to all imaginable ways of considering vacations or the weekend. Those who think of a peaceful vacation here will find them: beaches of fine white sand and idyllic secluded coves with crystal clear waters await them. Those looking for adventure have the opportunity to discover part of the municipal heritage by walking the coastal path or exploring the Bell-lloc valley.

For lovers of the sea, Palamós allows you to get to know the marine world in depth by walking through its port, visiting its facilities and participating in activities organized by the Fishing Museum and the Espai del Peix.

All the beaches in the municipality are easily accessible on foot or by car and you can choose between different varieties: sandy beaches such as the Grande de Palamós beach, La Fosca or the Castell beach, or rocky beaches, such as Cala Margarida or S’Alguer cove. There are even mixed beaches, with sand and rock, such as Cala Estreta.

The round path that runs along the coast of Palamós connects all these beaches and coves, and allows you to enjoy a unique landscape, among pine trees, at the foot of the sea.

Gastronomically, Palamós stands out for the famous prawn, a product par excellence in the area and which has become the star dish due to its quality, flavor and freshness.

CALELLA DE PALAFRUGELL Y LLAFRANC

Calella de Palafrugell is an ancient fishing village, made up of several coves, which still retains its charm, it is one of the few towns on the Costa Brava where that atmosphere that was breathed in the towns of the area still remains, with narrow streets , houses with a sloping tile roof and some traditional two-story fishermen’s houses.
It is located on a rocky coast, formed by small coves, to the north of the natural area of ​​Castell – Cap Roig, ideal for walks or bicycle excursions, and to the south of the coastal and tourist center of Llafranc.
In summer, the Cap Roig Music Festival is held in the Botanical Garden of Cap Roig.

The bay of Llafranc, its promenade, the port and the Cape of Sant Sebastià make this small town one of the most prestigious on the coast. Llafranc travels between tradition and modernity. Popular and prestigious destination for more than 50 years. The bay of fine sand, bordered by a pleasant promenade that reaches the nautical port, is framed by the church of Santa Rosa de Lima, with a Roman wine press next to it, and the Cape of Sant Sebastià to the north.

The beaches of: La Platgeta, Golfet, Port Bo, Sant Roc stand out and following the coastal path you can reach Tamariu where we find the coves of Aigua Xelida, Pedrosa and Aiguadolça, natural charms that offer the best landscapes on the Costa Brava.

Above the San Sebastiá lighthouse we recommend visiting the Nomo restaurant with incredible views and quality Japanese cuisine in a unique setting.

BEGUR

Located in the heart of Empordà, the town of Begur and its beaches make up one of the most wonderful places on the Costa Brava. Its municipal term is formed by a set of hills called Macizo de Begur, and an extensive coastline, bathed by the Mediterranean Sea. Begur has eight coves and beaches, arranged in the north, east and south of the town, with completely varied characteristics and beauty:

  • Aiguablava: The sand that forms it gives rise to a turquoise color to the water that makes it unmistakable and at the same time very pleasant, in addition to its scenic environment that makes it unique.
  • Sa Tuna: Small cove that preserves its old fishermen’s houses, it has a small cove on the right side which can be accessed by the round path called S’Eixugador, which is a wild place and a beautiful stillness.
    Fornells: include the marina and the house that Bonaventura Sabater, known as Xiquet, had built on the port of Ses Orats; called El Paraíso and which, according to tradition, was the place from where this coastline was baptized with the well-known name of Costa Brava.
  • Aiguafreda: Small cove sheltered by the Puig Rodó that has a small dock for boats.
  • Platja Fonda: You have to go down a long staircase before discovering this hidden and wild place. This natural hiding place has allowed the cove to remain virgin with thick, dark sand, thanks to the difficult access. This is one of the calmest coves on the entire coastline.
  • Sa Riera: It is the largest cove in the municipality of Begur, its name comes from a stream that divides it into two halves, currently preserving the old fishermen’s houses. This cove also has two neighboring coves that are Port des Pi on your right and Cala del Rey on your left.
  • Illa Roja: It is characterized by being chaired by a reddish rocky islet from which its name comes.
  • Platja del Racó: It is located next to the municipality of Pals and is connected by the coastal path with the coves of Isla Roja and Sa Riera.

We highlight Pals, which is one of the best known and most visited municipalities in the region, for the beauty of its landscape and the richness of its historical and heritage legacy. Located on top of a hill, it was built inside a fortress and has maintained its medieval essence so well that a visit to Pals is like traveling back in time and its old town was declared a Site of Historic Interest in 1973.

CADAQUÉS Y CAP DE CREUS

The history of Cadaqués dates back centuries and has been influenced by various peoples such as Greece and Rome. Maritime contacts and commercial exchanges with these and other cultures favored the economic development of the municipality, based essentially on fishing and agriculture. Undoubtedly, the geographical situation of Cadaqués, facing the sea and isolated from the rest of Alto Ampurdán by the Pení mountain, contributed to forging the character and spirit of this fishing town that for centuries had to face pirate attacks and corsairs.

In this cosmopolitan corner of the Costa Brava, some of the most important avant-garde artistic movements of the 20th century coexisted, such as Surrealism. Some of the most famous artists who have been to Cadaqués are: Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Ángel Planells, Paul Eluard, Federico García Lorca, Luís Buñuel, Marcel Duchamp, Max Ernst, Magritte, André Dérain, Richard Hamilton, Antonio Pitxot, Josep Pla and Eugeni d’Ors, among others.

The geological beauty of Cap de Creus fascinates by the singularity of forms that we can observe both in the rocks and in the plants. Therefore, it is not surprising that the whimsical and curious rocks of this place have been baptized by the inhabitants of the town with names as disparate as the rock of the Camel, the Eagle or the Turtle.

Along the bay of Cadaqués and the Cabo de Creus natural park there are a series of coves and beaches that maintain their authenticity and wild character, some of them being practically virgin, a fact that is observed in the purity and quality of their waters .

Around Us, News, Tourism, Weekend escapes

Winter escapes near Barcelona

If you are planning a visit nearby Barcelona this winter, you will love our selection of two of the most beautiful places to spend a weekend: Andorra and Val d’Aran, located 3-4 hours by car from our luxury residences.

On this post we will recommend you what to do and what to see during the snowing season mostly, on these amazing destinations.

ANDORRA

Andorra (officially, the Principality of Andorra) is a small state nestled in the Pyrenees mountains. With less than 500 square kilometers, Andorra is one of the smallest countries in the world, but it does not lack tourist attractions. Its charming villas are scattered throughout the Andorran valleys, which during winter are covered with snow and skiers. Its capital, Andorra la Vieja is also a popular shopping destination due to the country’s low tax level, and there are several spas to enjoy and relax.

Below, we propose different places where you can enjoy Andorra.

CHURCHES

Andorra is the country with the highest concentration of Romanesque churches per square meter. Fifty of these are in excellent condition and some of them with remnants of original paintings. Sant Joan de Caselles has one of his most precious jewels of the 11th-12th centuries.

SNOW

Andorra is known for its mountainous landscape and its great ski offer, which lasts from the beginning of December until the month of April. Its excellent location in the middle of the Pyrenees and its excellent weather conditions place the Andorran stations among the most valued by winter sports lovers. Grandvalira and Vallnord are the busiest ski resorts. They also have a wide range of possibilities for all those who do not wish to ski; such as mushing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling routes, etc.

NATURE

The magnificent glacial circus of Pessons is the largest in Andorra located in the Pyrenees. A mixture of magnificent landscapes and spectacular lakes of crystal clear water in the high mountains. During the summer hiking trails in this area are common.

SPA & RELAX

At 1.100 meters of altitude, is the famous Caldea spa, which is a mandatory stop. It is an authentic oasis of relaxation, with an extensive menu of massages and hydrothermal treatments. It has hot tubs, lagoons and baths that make it the largest thermal center in southern Europe.

It is also common for many 4 and 5 star hotels in Andorra to have their own hot spring space.

NATURLANDIA PARK

Naturlandia Park is located in the Rabassa forest, in Sant Julià de Lòria, and is the first animal park in Andorra. It welcomes native species of the Pyrenees and also an interactive children’s space with farm animals, where the little ones can participate. In addition, there is a large area dedicated to observing animals in their natural habitat.

SHOPPING

We cannot forget that Andorra is the shopping paradise and in Andorra la Vella you will find all kinds of small and large shops for all tastes. Andorra is considered a good place where prices are much more affordable than in other countries. What is most recommended to buy is technology.

The shopping centers are grouped in the two main streets of Andorra la Vella, Avenida Meritxell and Avenida Carlemany. Illa Carlemany and the Pyrenees of Andorra are the two best-known and most visited luxury shopping centers in Andorra.

VALL D’ARAN

This region of the Central Pyrenees is the last of the Pyrenees of Catalonia before entering the Aragonese Pyrenees. Located in the northwest corner of Catalonia, along the border with Aragon and France. The Val d’Aran belongs to the province of Lleida in Catalonia and its capital is Vielha e Mitjaran, also known as Viella or Vielha. They have a very differentiated language, Aranés, which is a variant of Occitan, the Romance language of Europe, which has been spoken since the 11th century.

Next, our selection of towns and attractions to see.

BOSSOST

This town retains all the beauty of its old town and its incredible Romanesque Church of the Assumption of Mary of the 12th century.

BAUSEN

Small fairytale town, Magical Pyrenees recommends visiting along with the Carlac Forest.

LES

Last town before entering France. Famous for its hot springs and its Caviar Nacarii fish farm.

SALARDÚ

Because Salardú was the entrance to the valley through the Port de la Bonaigua, the city was fortified in medieval times to protect itself. The old castle was located in the place where the church is currently, but you can still see some remains of the fortification.
Salardú offers a lot of services, has a library, shops, sports center, outdoor and heated pool, a golf course and is very close to the ski slopes of Baqueira Beret.

PARQUE NACIONAL DE AIGÜESTORTES I ESTANY DE SANT MAURICI

It is one of the 15 National Parks of Spain. It is located in the central area of ​​the Pyrenees of Catalonia, in the province of Lleida, and covers four regions: Alta Ribagorza, Pallars Sobirà, Pallars Jussà and Val d’Aran.
Its landscape is an excellent representation of the Catalan high mountain ecosystem. The best known lake of all is that of Sant Maurici, which gives its name to the park. It is more than 1,000 meters long and one of its main attractions are the two peaks that stand out on its banks called Els Encantats.

SORT

It is the capital of Pallars Sobirà (Lleida), the region of Catalonia with the most protected territory, distributed between the National Park d’Aigüestortes, and the Natural Park of l’Alt Pirineu, the largest in Catalonia.
The range of nature and adventure activities is very wide. You can enjoy adventures for all ages, from rafting to excursions, also multi-adventure circuits, mountain biking trails, horseback riding, bungee jumping, quad biking, hydrospeed, canyoning, kayaking, rock climbing, hiking, bungee jumping, mountaineering, etc.

BAQUEIRA

The winter season of Baqueira, declared a National Tourist Interest Center, is possibly the best in all of Spain. It has more than 150 km of skiable mountains that exceed 2,500 m at some point. But in Baqueira it is not all skiing, in winter apart from practicing this sport you can go hiking and snowshoeing, since from the Pla de Beret, the second important nucleus of the station, it is possible to make several routes. From the station you can admire mountain peaks that exceed 3,000 meters high, such as Maladeta and Aneto.

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