Spain's proudly distinct north east
In Spain’s north eastern corner sits the fiercely independent comunidad autónoma of Catalonia, an enthralling region of historic towns, mountains and a dramatic coastline that runs up to the French border.
At its heart is Barcelona, a destination in its own right, but outside the charismatic city there is much to explore. To the north of Barca, the city of Girona is host to one of the world’s finest restaurants – El Celler de Can Roca – and a rich encapsulation of Spanish history with its Gothic cathedral, old Jewish quarter and Arab baths.
Continue north an you’ll reach Figueres, home to the surreal Dalí Theatre and Museum, and if you keep going you will be met by the snow-capped peaks of the Pyrenees and some sublime hiking.
Along Catalonia’s rugged coast, the Costa Brava, secluded beaches are punctuated by fishing towns such as the beautiful Cadaques, a long-term muse to Dali, and innumerable opportunities to get off the beaten track to find your own corner of north eastern Spain.
Through it all, Catalonia’s proud traditions and distinct identity runs deep, be it in the language, cuisine or palpable confidence of the people.
Highlights
Head to Penedès and savour velvety wines and effervescent cava.
With a seasoned chef, enjoy a three-course delicious meal featuring canelones , butifarras al cava and crema Catalana.
Venture into Barcelona to learn about local beer production and savour delectable tapas.
Hike across the Empordà’s countryside to an idyllic finca, where you’ll sample their home-grown olive oil.
Catalonia astounds with its tantalising cuisine, the traditions of which trace back centuries.Here the rich, varied landscapes yield many delights: silky olive oil, sun-ripened fruit and honeyed wines that linger on the tongue. I recommend a culinary lesson with an expert chef, who'll guide you through the traditions that have remained for centuries.

Meg Simpson
Travel Designer
Luxury accommodation in Catalonia and the Costa Brava
Why book with Jacada?

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We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

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Trip Inspiration
Where to go

Andalusia
Andalusia possesses the most-varied terrain in all of Spain and boasts both a Mediterranean and an Atlantic coastline.
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Barcelona
Barcelona caters to every type of traveller, from honeymooners and beach lovers to art aficionados, foodies and culture hunters.
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Bilbao
Sophisticated, cosmopolitan, and vibrant, Bilbao is the modern face of the Basques.
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Duero Valley Wine Region
With more than 300 wineries, there’s no chance of going thirsty. Each and every winemaker is immensely proud of their product and have their own secrets.
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Granada
Granada is as famous for its beautiful gardens and charming narrow streets as for its tavern-style nightlife and Flamenco-skilled gypsy artists.
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La Rioja Wine Region
Tucked away between the Basque Country, Navarre and Castilla y Leon, northern La Rioja may be small, but it’s full of spirit.
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Madrid
The Spanish capital is bursting with life and passion and through its well planned streets course Madrilenos, the city’s inhabitants.
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Malaga and the Costa del Sol
Malaga is best known for the Costa del Sol, a stretch of sandy coastline punctuated by Marbella and Puerto Banus Marina, as well as sleepier fishing villages.
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Mallorca
Beloved by Chopin, George Sand, Joan Miro, and other such luminaries, the largest of the Balearic Islands is nothing short of inspiring.
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San Sebastian
The sophisticated and shimmering city of San Sebastian in the north has quickly become the Spanish city of choice for those in the know.
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Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela is one of the country’s most culturally and historically significant cities.
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Seville
Seville has resurrected itself as the capital and largest city of Andalusia, full of Spanish grandeur.
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When to visit
The summers can get very hot in southern Spain so visiting in spring, early summer and autumn is preferable. The north is still hot during the summer but is cooler than the south, which is great for hiking. With plenty of museums and galleries in the cities, they make great year-round destinations.

Go hiking
June and September

Wine tasting
June

Calcot season
November - April
Spain Travel Guides
Plan your trip to Catalonia and the Costa Brava
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If you book to travel with us but your plans are impacted by circumstances you can’t control, we’ll change your reservation or cancel your booking for a full credit towards future travel.