Despite being only 150km from Barcelona on the main road to Madrid and with high-speed train links to both cities. Lleida is one of those places which just tends to get overlooked. Certainly I’ve driven past on numerous occasions without ever giving it so much as a second glance. Earlier this month my partner and …
Read moreLleida – Cathedrals, Castles and a Medieval Dungeon
Montblanc was founded in 1163 by Alfonso I of Barcelona to defend the road between Tarragona and Lleida. The town prospered and by the 13th Century was one of the most important towns in Catalonia. Today the medieval old town, complete with fortified stone walls is said to be among the best preserved in Spain. The …
Each spring, during the 2nd week of May, the streets of Girona fill with colour as the city hosts it’s annual flower festival Girona Temps de Flors. The festival takes place in the historic city centre and medieval Jewish quarter El Call Jueu. The most impressive floral displays include the Cathedral steps, the Arab baths, …
With a population of approximately 2400 people, Besalú makes an interesting and relaxing day trip from Barcelona. As you wander the the narrow streets, it’s hard to believe that during the Middle Ages this now tranquil small town was once an important local capital. What to See in Besalú Besalu’s star attraction is without doubt …
The 275m Pont del Petroli was constructed in the 1960s by the CAMPSA oil company. Originally used for unloading oil tankers, the jetty was abandoned in the 1990s and soon became popular with local SCUBA divers. In 2003 Badalona City Council purchased and refurbished the jetty adding a weather station at the far end. In 2009 …
The 11th Century “Castell de Burriac” is a small medieval castle with fantastic views of the Maresme Coast, Montseny and Barcelona. The castle is located at the top of Burriac hill at an altitude of 401m. The only way to get there is on foot or by mountain bike. The walk starts in the outskirts …
Sitges is a Spanish beach resort located just 35km south of Barcelona. The town is famous for it’s nightlife, beaches, carnival and the Sitges Film Festival. Sitges in the wintertime is a popular day trip for Barcelona residents who typically visit on Sunday and take a stroll along the seafront followed by lunch in one …
As the North of Europe freezes under a blanket of snow Barcelona enjoys a bit of winter sunshine! I took this photo on the beach at Montgat on the way home from work today. Even though the temperature is only about 13 degrees Centigrade it’s nice to have a quick stroll along a deserted beach …