Day 258 - 27/05/2014 : Palamos Red shrimp

The Empordà coast presents amazing attractions and cater for visitors to this area for the first time and to those who live there daily. One attraction more accommodating to the palate, and that gives this coast, is the Red Shrimp.

These crustáceoses have traditionally fished in the coastal towns and sailors are among the Cape of Begur and the stream of Riudara but Foremost, the village of Palamos and Calonge . In fact, the Palamos red shrimp has a name and international recognition, which has even a hallmark of quality.

Enjoy your meal !

Day 257 - 26/05/2014 : Sea walk in Calella de Palafrugell

Once you've arrived to Calella you will feel an unstoppable desire to walk and admire its coastal line. From Hotel Sant Roc until Canadell beach the sea walk will bring you to the ecstasy, you won't forget this landscape wherever you go.

It will be difficult to give up the walk and take a bath but finally the clean and fresh Costa Brava water will be calling, probably you will be tired after few time under the sun, you will deserve a bath.

Enjoy it !

Day 256 - 25/05/2014 : La Platgeta

Probably it isn't the most comfortable beach in Calella de Palafrugell but it's our favorite spot, as we were staying in Hotel Sant Roc, top on the right, it was the nearest cove we could find, and it didn't deserves us.

Clean and fresh waters, not too much people and few great weather day provoked we fallen in love with that little piece of beauty.

As you can see, it's the last cove located in the center of town, then you should follow Cami de Ronda to find out other beautiful beaches.

Would you like to explore it?

Day 255 - 24/05/2014 : Sant Roc Hotel

Sometimes we are looking for the lower prices when finding accommodation which normally causes people stay in normal places without any charm.

The first time we stayed in Calella de Palafrugell we went to an expensive accommodation, Sant Roc Hotel, but we would repeat in case of coming again.

If you can afford it don't lose time looking for uncomfortable places, all the money you will spend here will be worth.


Look at this sunrise, what do you think?

Fantastic !!!

Day 254 - 23/05/2014 : Inside La Platgeta

Calella de Palafrugell has a number of beautiful small coves linked to Llafranc via a coastal walk. The first of the beaches at Calella de Palafrugell is 'Canadell' where you have the Tragamar restaurant on the beach which is open during the summer season.

Port Bo is a small sandy cove located just south of central Calella de Palafrugell. Les Voltes is a beach where you have a small promenade set back from the beach with several restaurants and beach shops. Platja Sota Can Calau is the next one along and after that Port Pelegri, Sant Roc and El Golfet which is approximately 1.5 km from central Calella de Palafrugell.

But today we talk about a hidden beach close to Sant Roc Hotel : La Platgeta. This little beach with only 20 meters long is visited mostly by local people who enjoy refresh in its warm waters (we might say cold waters...)

It was the first cove we tasted in Calella therefore it will be remind forever.

Enjoy your bath !

Day 253 - 22/05/2014 : Calella At Night

Calella de Palafrugell is wonderful even at night. We were able to stay in a Sant Roc Hotel seaside room , we enjoyed the sunrise and the spectacular views at the afternoon, but the night scene stopped our breath during a seconds.

The waves sounds whereas hitting the rocks within a quiet and peaceful environment. Further we can see the little fishermen town with Sant Pere Church governing.

Is there anything better for your eyes before going to sleep?

Day 252 - 21/05/2014 : Sant Pere Church

Sant Pere church is one of the historical sites you might visit in Calella de Palafrugell.

It’s not a particular rich church, but still gives away some beautiful ‘secrets’. Of course the beautiful stained glasses are worth a closer look. We noticed that the church has a single nave with some interesting vaults. The apse is semicircular on the outside while the inside remains of polygonal shape.

Outside the church we can read on a plaque that in the 10th century some of the stone blocks from the earlier built castle were used to build the church of of St. Pere de Calella. In its final structure you can make out the Romanesque base, the Gothic apse and nave and the Baroque portico and bell tower. Having a good look at the baroque façade allows some details of the 19th century remnants. Do walk around the church and enjoy the vibe at that particular spot. We can honestly say it is a must visit and that's why we suggest everybody to go to the Church of St. Pere de Calella and observe the village and the beauty of its landscape.

Nothing more to say, come and visit it !!!

Day 251 - 20/05/2014 : Port de la Mala Espina

Today we are going to start a tour from the probably best town in Costa Brava, we are talking about Calella de Palafrugell.

We will spend some days looking pictures and explaining the main sights. First of all, Port de la Mala Espina, the most picturesque beach.

Calella de Palafrugell is one of three coastal towns belonging to the municipality of Palafrugell, the other two being Llafranc and Tamariu. It belongs to Baix Emporda shire and it has been known to be a small holiday resort and fishing village near Palafrugell and a short distance along the coast from Llafranc. It should not be confused with the larger, more commercialised resort of  Calella de la Costa, which is further south towards Barcelona, in Maresme shire's.

Calella de Palafrugell, a must in your trip to Catalonia !

Day 250 - 19/05/2014 : Lleida panorama

The Seu Vella old cathedral, also known as “Lleida Castle”, is definitely the city’s most emblematic monument. 

It is the highest accessible point of the city and is accessible by car or on foot from Carrer Sant Martí, entering into the walled precinct by the Porta del Lleó, or from Plaça Sant Joan, by lift, through the entrance hall of Sant Andreu.

This unique cathedral sits on top of the hill overlooking the city and affords magnificent views of Lleida and the surrounding countryside of Segrià county.

The visit will be worth ! 

Day 249 - 18/05/2014 : Lleida's Seu Vella

The extremely beauty of Lleida's Seu is given us when we are reaching it. Governing all the city and the Segre river's walk.

The Cathedral of St. Mary of La Seu Vella (Catalan: Catedral de Santa Maria de la Seu Vella) is the former cathedral church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Lleida, located on top of Lleida hill.

In 1707, the Gothic cathedral was turned into a military citadel. The new cathedral, known as the Seu Nova and located downhill at Carrer Major, was consecrated in 1781


Nevertheless, the Seu Vella is the defining monument of Lleida, the symbol of the city, being visible from its hilltop site anywhere in the city.

You can't miss it !!!

Day 248 - 17/05/2014 : The red car on top of Orniu Bridge

Here we go ! Finally we decided to try cross Orniu Bridge by Civic and we succeeded !!!

It seemed the car began to float when reached the middle point of the bridge, but nothing happened and we were able to continue our route.

Then, now it's your time to visit this historical sight and discover if you are enough brave to cross it, don't you?

Day 246 - 15/05/2014 : Antifascist ever

Catalonia is full of antifascist messages, either on roads, cities and ads. We are suffered Spanish fascist during the dictatorship and people have ever been very aware of this.

Even although the end of dictatorship is far, we continue suffering fascist attacks as the awful event occurred in Castellar del Riu where some idiot damaged 'Pi de les Tres Branques'. We will continue fighting against fascists, they have to know they will receive answer from us if our culture, symbols or ourselves are injured.

Antifascist ever !!!

Day 247 - 16/05/2014 : Orniu Bridge

We have ever found news sights when going back to Berguedà. One of the most and beautiful surprises we recently discovered was Orniu bridge.

This stone-bridge was built after the Successió war (probably at the middle of XVIII century), when the old one was destroyed and it has been a important cross point for Llobregat river in Cal Rosal, above all in the time when the town was a relevant industrial place with the colony working.

The fact when you reach the bridge is thinking about your car is able to cross it, would you like to be in the situation?

Look up the bridge in your guide and follow the route !

Day 245 - 14/05/2014 : Rasos de Peguera road

Starting at Berga there are some panoramic roads you can take to admire the mountains surrounding Berguedà main city, it's advisable because besides to admire the great nature you will find fantastic restaurants to taste the best Catalan dishes.

One of these roads is BV4242 which drives to the ski station Rasos de Peguera, 25 kilometers from Berga. First of all you will see breathtaking views from Berga and the shire, even you will be able to see Montseny and Montserrat ranges further.

After a few meters you will find the sign to Rasos de Peguera, turn to right and start the climb to one of the best suitable ski areas for children inside Catalonia.

Enjoy the journey !

Day 243 - 12/05/2014 : St. Vicenç d'Obiols

One of the Three Visigoth Church from Avià is located in a little hill on the right side of Llobregat river, we are talking about Sant Vicenç d'Obiols.

This little church came from Pre-Romanesque period, specifically was built on the 10th Century. 

The landscape around it is wonderful governing Berguedà ranges giving a really fantastic panoramic view from the church's esplanade. Besides the building we should find Obiols house, a rectory and a old barn.

The church is opened by volunteers people and can be visited by paying a little fee, it's worth it !

Day 244 - 13/05/2014 : Pi de les 3 branques

It's curious just the day one of our symbols suffered a fascist attack is the day to appear in the block. What's up, chance or fate?

The fact is during the night of Tuesday the 13th something clever had the idea to cut down one of its branches provoking the claim for justice from Catalan people. Here in Catalonia we've a saying telling 'Cap Agressió sense resposta' (translated it should be all aggression must be answered), we will do what we say.

Things are getting pretty hot here and this kind of action don't help to calm down the situation, in the contrary it's only contribute to increase the hate. We hope the fascist who did this action was caught and get into prison until the end of his days.

Cap agressió sense resposta !

Day 242 - 11/05/2014 : Cal Rosal

Cal Rosal is a little town located in Berguedà shire between 3 and 4 kilometers south from Berga. Llobregat river cross the village and for ages it was the main village resource and key for its development and growth.

In the past it became a great textile colony but nowadays The best of the town are the stunning trails starting from it, giving us great view to Berguedà and Picancell range on the far.

Definitely it's an alternative way to consider to know and enjoy Berguedà, take it into account !

Day 241 - 10/05/2014 : Avià

Now we are jumping to the mountains again. Yesterday we were on the beach and just a day after we come back to Berguedà shire, definitely our paradigm of mountain excursions in Catalonia.

Avià is one of the towns with more awareness about the right of Catalan people to decide his future. They've started a own poll system to allow his inhabitant to express their feelings about Catalonian future's before the November's poll came.

We were very happy when walking quietly in the town a cold February morning we discovered only Catalan flags were waving in the city hall.

Visca Catalunya lliure !!!

Day 240 - 09/05/2014 : Summer artits

Whereas we were lying comfortably in our hammocks, a summer artist was creating his daily figure. As soon as we realized this face was governing Sant Marti beach shore's and people couldn't stop to admire.

It's incredible the talent existing in the world and unfortunately wasted.

Who can be? A mythological Greek God?

Day 239 - 08/05/2014 : Sant Martí d'Empuries beach

When we are staying at L'Escala we haven't like very much the beaches of the town, therefore we had to find other nearest beaches to enjoy a sunbath lying on hammocks.

We started to find out our L'Escala beach and fortunately we didn't need to spend much time, a town we visited the previous year was our placement to enjoy the beach during some days.

The Sant Martí d'Empuries beach is advised to be one of the best beaches of Alt Empordà shire, you won't find a lot of crowd at any time therefore it's a quite place and you will spend all the day lying of his fantastic hammocks with the church watching you.

You shouldn't forgot to visit at any time !

Day 238 - 07/05/2014 : Sant Pere church in Ullastret

We've ever known Ullastret by the Iberian settlement we saw few days ago. But there are other sights inside this stunning village, for example Sant Pere church.

This Romanesque church is dated from 889 and the basilica temple between X and XI Centuries. We discovered the church walking quietly in the town in a cloudy evening after visiting the settlement, we loved the colorful contrast between brown walls from the church's apsis and the grey sky.

The storm started soon, it was middle August you know ! 

Day 237 - 06/05/2014 : Verges from the air

The last picture from our first experience with ballooning come into the first village we were able to admire from the air : Verges.

This little town from Baix Empordà shire is known due to his Easter events, where a procession is held and the Dance of Death is represented around the street's town giving a special atmosphere to the event.

The Verge's Dance of Death is a relic which is held from Medieval age and it's a sight to consider if you like this kind of events.

Will you be impressed someday by the masks ?

Day 236 - 05/05/2014 : Taking off

Every minute you spend inside the balloon is afforded, even when you're taking off.

At first moment you might think it's dangerous when the balloon reach the ground again, but once you're inside you realize it's more safety you though, the take off is really soft with very low speed.

Finally we were pushed to the ground after one hour and a half surfing the Empordà sky, it was such an incredible experience which we promised to repeat.

Enjoy and conquer the sky !

Day 235 - 04/05/2014 : Montgrí range governing

Green and brown fields, blue sky, white clouds and Montgrí range governing the horizon. We were close to taking off when we took this beautiful picture when Montgrí and Medes islands appeared in the horizon such a majestic vision.

There isn't point to doubt to have a baptism in ballooning, you will discover a special way to watch over the country.

Definitely book and fly !!!

Day 234 - 03/05/2014 : Ullastret Iberian settlement

Empordà is such a rich land in historical sites you should visit when coming there. One of this is really relevant : Ullastret Iberian settlement.

It's the biggest Iberian old city discovered in Catalonia and it has been declared as National Heritage from the Generalitat.

The city was built on Sant Andreu hill to allow watch over Empordà shire and it's dated from VI Century BC.

From the air we obtained a spectacular view but it's needed to visit on the ground to look into the Catalan history.

Check the timetable and learn a little about our history !

Day 233 - 02/05/2014 : Ter river from the air

Suddenly the wind changed and we were pushed to the North, it was the moment to admire Ter river from the air.

Our shadow was reflected in the river because the sun was enough high to project it, we were lucky !!!

We were close to the sea therefore the river was doing his lasts curves before entering to the final gorge, from here it's easy to understand the magnificent fields on the countryside.

Don't close your eyes, we'll come on with new aerial pictures !

Day 232 - 01/05/2014 : Balloon race

We weren't the only flying that day. A yellow balloon pursued us but the wind wasn't enough strong to catch us and we observed it far whenever our balloon was drove.

Anyway, the flight didn't let us down every minute we spent within the basket, finally we won the race but before that we took a lot of picture giving us the sensation to be discovered a new and amazing way to explore our country.

Ballooning isn't cheap at all but each euro spend is afforded when you're watching your country from the heights.

Enjoy your flight !

Day 231 - 30/04/2014 : Empordà and Roses bay from the balloon

Our balloon flight started and the wind drove us to the north east therefore we were able soon to see Roses Bay and the green Empordà fields.

The morning was quiet, warm and the wind was enough calm to enjoy a great time in the balloon. We stayed for about 1 hour and a half  and we reached 1000 feet height following the guidelines from the pilot.

We didn't realize how beautiful is Empordà countryside until we admired it from the air : the different shades of green fields were merging with the sea's dark blue, the mountains, clouds and blue sky creating a fantastic postcard.

The best way to start a journey !

Day 230 - 29/04/2014 : Globus Empordà, ballooning

One of the most exciting events we've taken part in Catalonia is ballooning. We've done in Empordà and Cerdanyà but our first experience was in Empordà a warm August morning and we had to say that it was really amazing.

We were sleeping in L'Escala and we had to drive at first hour in the morning, in fact it was dark when we left from our hotel, to a little town in the countryside called Ultramort.

When we arrived the balloon was starting to move up by filling it with a big fun, in a few minutes we were flying above the Empordà.

You can't get out, the next days you will see some fantastic pictures from the air !

Day 229 - 28/04/2014 : Llafranc from Sant Sebastian lighthouse

Leaving Tamariu from GIV-5442 road you will reach a cross where turning to the left will give you to a fantastic view point of Palafrugell beaches : San Sebastià lighthouse.

The view is lovely and breathtaking, you will see in a first look Llafranc and its beautiful beach. The lighthouse itself is stunning looking at the Mediterranean and watching over the horizon.

Further than Llafranc you will find the white houses from Calella de Palafrugell giving a colorful scenario to your pictures.

There is a fantastic hotel in the lighthouse however if you plan to stay there we recommend to book months in advance, it's a very requested place !!!

Day 228 - 27/04/2014 : Tamariu panorama

We were able to take this fantastic panorama of Tamariu bay from 'Cami de Ronda', it was such an amazing walk on this path observing how the bay presented to our eyes.

A few little boats are anchored in the bay, most of them owned by old fishermen but in summer time is usual to see people jumping to the sea or preparing a sailing excursion.

The beauty of Costa Brava is shown in this picture when clean waters are merged with green slopes and blue sky, something really special and relaxing to be aware we live in a paradise.

Costa Brava, coast of sensations !

Day 227 - 26/04/2014 : Tamariu from Cami de Ronda

Summer is coming therefore it's time to come back to Costa Brava and beach pictures.

First of all let me introduce a reference town for your Costa Brava holidays : Palafrugell. This town isn't on the seaside but it's the point to reach 3 of the most beautiful towns in this area : Calella de Palafrugell, Llafranc and Tamariu.

The last one is the focus of today. Tamariu is a little town with only 300 inhabitants which historically was a fishermen town but now it's a recognized tourist place in summer due to a quiet environment and breathtaking views from 'Cami de Ronda'.

Take and look and meet soon !

Day 226 - 25/04/2014 : Espinaler, a Vilassar must

Vilassar is mostly known by a great bar offering preserved food and fresh vermouth. But nothing had gone to the top without the famous red sauce which the food is dressed.

We are talking about Espinaler, a special Mediterranean tavern which you will see crowded whenever you come !!! We have to say it isn't a cheaper place, probably you had saved up a few money before, but every euro you spend will be afford.

Enjoy your dish !
  

Day 225 - 24/04/2014 : a rabbit in the beach !!!

Our little and beautiful town sometimes surprises us with special events. What do you think if we tell you that we found a rabbit in the beach a hot summer day?

Are you kidding us? Absolutely not. The little rabbit appears above the rocks and it isn't seemed lost, he moved quickly looking for a way to continue his excursion.

Obviously, it's unusual seeing rabbits in a beach but this is Vilassar, the miracle's town !!!

Day 224 - 23/04/2014 : Catalonian Racetrack Boxes

Sebastian Vettel has been adored last years from Catalan people. Obviously he isn't a Catalan pilot but he has recently beat the nerdy Alonso.

We were able to take this picture from racetrack boxes when Sebastian was near to start his training session within a race which he won in 2012.

Sebastina has kept up a great level of driving last years winning the last 4 World Championship, the best to avoid the nerdy spectacle's.

Come on Vettel,  come on!!

Day 223 - 22/04/2014 : Catalonian Racetrack, La Caixa curve

Catalonia is one of the countries where the motor sports have a special relevance. Last years a few Catalans pilots have won World Championship and this fact in only understood from a great infrastructure to grow up more quickly the young people claimed to glory.

Undoubtedly one of the places which have put Catalonia on top of motorsport events is the 'Circuit de Montmeló', a racetrack located 20km on the North of Barcelona and considered one of the most modern tracks in the F1 and Motorbike Champioships.

Probably, the most spectacular track is known as 'Corva de la Caixa' when the vehicles have to reduce to minimum their speed after a big straight to take a 180ª curve.

Enjoy the races !

Day 221 - 20/04/2014 : Colorful japanese car in a Catalan road

I have to declare my reverence against my red car. He has brought us around Catalonia during the last 5 years climbing mountains, running free in the motorways, speeding in the slopes with its power !!!

The Civic has never let down us, dropping us off  on time whenever we need, above all in steeped roads when its 140 CV eat the road mercilessly.

Here he is looking at La Baells reservoir whereas the owner take a colorful picture when the red and green are merging.

I'm running free yeeeaaaahh, i'm running free !!!!

Day 222 - 21/04/2014 : Bergueda's cat

Definitely we love cats !!! We got crazy when we see a cat wherever we stay, we can't wait to touch them and start to take pictures.

There isn't autochthonous race in Catalonia, we should referred them as European standard cats or something like that but anyway, we are plenty of happiness when a feline come near us and try to obtain a pat, it's the least we can do for them.

This lovely cat belong to Berga Resort, the campsite located in Berga where we've spend a lot of weekends. He was waiting for his breakfast !!!

Day 220 - 19/04/2014 : Coal mine in Sant Corneli

The excursion into the coal mine in Sant Corneli is something special you should try when coming to Berguedà.

A little train enters into the mine whereas the guide explains the importance of the mine in the past and how was the life around it.

Within the mine you will learn about the hard work involved to classify and be useful the mineral to everyday life. After you got back to the museum you will be able to see an audiovisual with the land history.

Fear of the dark !