Plan a trip to Catalonia

Catalonia (known as Cataluña in Spanish), is a region in northeastern Spain located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, bordering France. Known for its rich history, culture, and cuisine, as well as its diversity, Catalonia is one of the most affluent regions in Spain.

The spectacularly beautiful Pyrenees Mountains, which rise to a height of nearly 9843 feet, are located here, as are green, secluded valleys, charming villages that retain the character of the Middle Ages, and outstanding, iconic architecture. Popular adventures in Catalonia include hiking on the many trails that pass through the breathtaking landscape, rafting in rivers and waterfalls, skiing and other winter sports, and, in the summer, visiting the beautiful wild beaches of the Costa Brava north of Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, and the golden Costa Daurada beach south of it. The beautiful Aiguestortes National Park Reserve, situated in the Central Pyrenees, is close to paradise with its over 200 streams, rivers, and lakes and thriving flora and fauna. Surrounding the park are jagged peaks of granite and slate, pine and fir forests, and a rich cultural heritage, including charming Romanesque churches and monasteries hidden in isolated valleys.

Vall D'Aran, the northernmost fertile valley in Catalonia, is surrounded by the spectacular peaks of the Catalan Pyrenees, extraordinary landscapes, and glacial lakes. It is considered an ideal destination for skiing and other winter sports. Having been isolated over the centuries during the long winter months, this area has its own language, deep-rooted traditions and culture, and a unique cuisine that attractions visitors from all over.

Catalonia boasts several beautiful cities. Barcelona is the vibrant cosmopolitan capital that combines fascinating historical sites with innovative modern design, including the iconic works of its legendary architect, Antoni Gaudi. Tarragona is a modern coastal city rich in Roman remains, and the picturesque, medieval city of Girona is renowned for its ancient walls, cobbled streets, and colorful houses. The city’s many museums and galleries, boutiques, and restaurants make it an attractive tourist destination to soak up the local atmosphere. The city of Figueres, the birthplace of the famous surrealist artist, Salvador Dali, is home to the Dali Theater Museum and other notable cultural sites.

Catalonia, historically, has had independent traditions and a unique language, and its festivals continue to attract multitudes of visitors. Fire and fireworks play a central role in many of its festivals, including Correfoc, the fire-run, which is a traditional form of evening entertainment where people dress up as devils or dragons and run through the streets, dancing and jumping inside fireworks. Another feature of many Catalan festivals are parades in which you’ll see the traditional gigantes and cabezudos- costumed giants and big heads. A giant is between 10 and 13 feet tall with a huge head made of paper mache and plaster of Paris.

The Sardana, where circles of people join hands and move slowly round and round, is the traditional national dance of Catalonia, and an important part of the Catalan heritage.

Of course, a trip to Catalonia isn’t complete without indulging in some of the region’s world-famous cuisine. Catalan gastronomy is renowned for its bold flavors and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Must-try dishes include pa amb tomaquet (bread with tomato and olive oil), escalivada (roasted vegetables), and botifarra amb mongetes (sausage with white beans) - all accompanied by the region’s famous wines and cava, the glory of Catalonia.