Discover art and wine in Spain’s Catalonia region

Guest blogger Elena reviews her experience of the food and culture of Catalonia, Spain with responsible travel specialists Go Barefoot…

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I arrived at a romantic, luxury family farmhouse located in the heart of the Catalonian countryside, surrounded by green hills with a view of the outstanding Montserrat mountain range. I felt I was in an undiscovered fairytale far away from big city life, giving me the energy and inspiration that I was looking for.

I love the idea of family businesses and the beautiful farmhouse proved this to me once again – happiness is when you love what you do and when you are surrounded by such love. I really felt like part of the family when I arrived – welcomed by loving, happy, relaxed and charming people.

Accommodation

Go Barefoot partners with responsible tourism providers, and this trip includes accommodation (in my case the farmhouse) with double/twin occupancy. It feels like you have finally found a retreat on earth, offering high standards of service with the perfect touch of small details surrounded by tasteful decoration, candles, organic linen, wild flowers, and hand woven baskets, all which inspire you and put you in a relaxing and creative frame of mind.

Things to do

The ‘Grapes of Art’ trip is all about discovering Catalonia’s rich cultural heritage, including the work of Dali and Gaudi. I got busy writing and painting whilst tasting local wines and olive oil, exploring Costa Brava’s unspoilt beach coves, and visiting the quirky Dali museum.

Gastronomy is an incredibly important part of this region so this trip takes every opportunity to indulge in some of the best local cuisine. Several of the days include excursions to Catalonia’s vineyards and wine cellars with tours and tastings part of the experience. Sample some lovely cava (white Catalan sparking wine) or txacoli (Basque wine) with your tapas.

If you are a fan of the creative talents of Gaudi, you will love the time spent in Barcelona. Fans of the area can add a two day extension on to the overall trip and continue to enjoy the Barcelona region, its mountain ranges, beaches and vineyards.

You will spend much of the time exploring Catalonia’s medieval villages such as Peratallada, Besalu and Cadaques – full of cobbled streets, quaint houses and picturesque vistas. The trip also takes in the stunning city of Girona and monuments such as Pubol Castle, home of Dali’s wife and muse Gala.

This Catalonian experience offers pure rest and stimulation for your body and soul – you can absorb the silence of nature, taste organic local food produce, walk or go horse riding, enjoy art and creative writing, or indulge in a spa treatment and massage.

Like me, you will love it!

‘Grapes of Art’ trip duration/prices: 6 days (+ 2 extension). Year round departures. £895 per person (check latest prices online)

For a full itinerary, latest prices and booking, visit www.gobarefoot.travel

Recommended for… Lovers of art, wine and good food

Be aware that… The rural-based accommodation is geared towards peace and tranquility, so not for those looking for a party hot-spot!

‘Good’ credentials:

  • Go Barefoot partners with small-scale producers that preserve rural traditions and culinary techniques
  • They also partner with responsible tourism accommodation providers in the region
  • Go Barefoot supports the conservation of the Iberian Lynx in Andulucia