When we talk about Catalonia, most of us will immediately think of Barcelona. Whilst Barcelona is undoubtedly beautiful, there is so much more to see of this historic region. Picturesque little hamlets, old stone buildings, sensational local cuisine and unmatched Catalan hospitality, and of course, if you’re visiting in winter, maybe even the chance to ski!
Photo: by Ilya Bogin/CC BY 2.0
Rupit
Undoubtedly one of the prettiest villages in Catalonia, if not the world, Rupit is a picture perfect example of 16th century charm. Nestled into the hillside, you could be fooled into thinking that you’d actually stepped back in time. For adults it’s really all about taking in the scenery, which you are free to do safe in the knowledge that Rupit is entirely traffic free, owing to the narrow limestone streets. Absolutely no dangerous road crossing so the kids can properly explore and you’ll know they’re safe!
Photo: by raul2010 / CC BY-SA 2.0
Like many of the villages in this area, Rupit boasts a stunning 12th century castle that could definitely provide a couple of hours entertainment. Also, close to the village centre are numerous little shops selling local delicacies; the cheeses here are particularly good. Just outside of Rupit you’ll find stunning and largely undisturbed wildlife, rivers, wildflowers and even eagles swooping overhead. The Salt de Sallent waterfall is a very manageable walk away, even for little ones and the views are to die for.
Puig-Reig
Puig-Reig, home to recent PSPC champion Ramon Colillas, is a small town sat atop a hill overlooking a river. It’s situation is truly picturesque, but the real draw here is the stunning 10th century castle, a real slice of history and a great place to let the kids imaginations run wild. The castle has been restored beautifully over the years and includes lots of easily digestible information, so it can be a learning experience too.
Puig-Reig is a very small town, but it has a great selection of choices for food. The one that stands out above all others is El Cellar de Cala Quica. This would be beautiful if you’re spending the evening as a couple, as the menu is particularly special, but they will also gladly cater for children off the menu. The dining arrangements here are cozy: you can choose to sit in private dining rooms with circular tables or on the terrace, which has sandy floors and atmospheric lighting.
The menu here is in Catalan, but the staff are more than happy to help with translations. There is a real focus on local produce, so much so that it is hard to choose a stand out dish. The scallops with Iberico ham are just divine, but also the confit cod is cooked so simply and slowly that it quite literally melts in the mouth. As it would be expected in Catalonia, the wine menu is excellent, if you’re unsure of what to order then put your faith in the sommelier (and don’t forget to try the selection of cheeses after dessert!)
Aigüestortes & Sant Maurici
This is the only national park in the Spanish part of Catalonia, so it’s well worth a visit. Mountain views are everywhere you look, with the highest peaks reaching more than 3000 metres. You can cover most of the park by car, but there are plenty of places to stop and take a walk.
Photo by Manuel Alende Maceira / CC BY 2.0
Don’t forget to visit the Sant Maurici Lake, take a photo of the family here in front of the Els Encantats mountains and it’ll be the only one you need on the mantlepiece. The view is the most photographed in the whole park and there’s a good reason why.
Peratallada
This little hamlet is truly like something out of a fairytale. A genuine medieval village, Peratallada boasts pretty houses carved from stone, numerous picturesque squares and the remains of the town walls and castle. Don’t forget to visit the Plaça de les Voltes, a 13th century church, or take in some of the modern independent art galleries that line the cobbled streets.
If you do nothing else on this list then please treat yourself to dinner at Candelaria. Eating here is one that might be best just for the parents, as the setting is so romantic that it would be a shame for mum and dad to have to share it! In the warmer months there is a large garden where you can dine al fresco surrounded by huge trees, lit only by candles and fairylights – you could not imagine a more idyllic dining space. In the cooler months the inside is decorated in a charming and slightly old-fashioned way, candles and orange filament bulbs light up the rooms. Antiques, historic paintings and even old postcards line the walls. Of course the most important part of any restaurant is the food and Candelaria does not disappoint. Try the smoked squid and octopus with hummus for a real explosion of flavour. Another dish that packs a punch is the Iberian pork, cooked long and low, served with a peppery pea puree.
*This is a collaborative post.