SPAIN: Costa Brava
Come and see the wilder side of Spain. No, we're not talking the partying kind – though there are plenty of nightlife hotspots along the coastline here if you're looking for after-dark entertainment. We are of course, talking about the dramatic, rugged scenery kind. Translated the Costa Brava means 'Wild Coast', and you'll soon see why. Snake your way down the shimmering shores here, and on to the mesmerising Costa de Barcelona, and you'll come across some real eye-candy. Windswept bays. Secluded coves. And long stretches of sand that are to-die-for. Take a turn inland and the wow-factor stuff just keeps coming with traditional Catalan towns and medieval hilltop villages at every turn. No wonder this gorgeous region has become one of Europe's top holiday destinations. In fact, ever since Ava Gardner and Frank Sinatra first visited Tossa De Mar in the glam-filled '50s, the small fishing villages here have developed into bustling, cosmopolitan resorts. So you could say this is where Britain's love affair with Spain began. Where will you head? We mentioned Tossa De Mar, and this is arguably one of the most eye-catching resorts, where cobbled streets, mountain vistas and an ancient castle add oodles of charm. Estartit enjoys a similar setting, where traditional Spanish life effortlessly sits alongside the modern marina. Llfranc too has kept its old-fashioned loveliness with it winding, whitewashed streets and pine-laced promenade. Don't overlook the popular holiday hangouts though, which have bags of top-notch attractions on offer, like fashionable Platja D'aro and lively Lloret De Mar. Wherever you unpack your luggage, try and tear yourself away from the beach and explore the captivating countryside. And if you have time, the beautiful city of Barcelona is within easy reach. With eye-popping architecture, galleries galore and some serious shopping on offer, it's simply breathtaking. So come and take a walk on Spain's wild side. It has everything you could wish for, and then some.
Beaches
For many people, the beach is the all-important deciding factor when it comes to booking a holiday. So if you tend to fall into this category, you've got a tough decision ahead of you in this corner of Spain. Talk about being spoilt for choice. The Costa Brava and Costa de Barcelona's sands have long been bringing those in the know here. So which one is going to get you packing those beach towels faster than you can say 'sun cream'? Tossa de Mar's gold-dust sands are more than tempting. Boasting two blue flag beaches laced with beach bars and cafes, the gentle surf makes this a popular pick with families. Likewise, Lloret de Mar has plenty going on with its tree-lined promenade and oodles of watersports. It has got an impressive wide sweep of creamy-coloured sand too, so even in the height of summer you won't feel crammed in. Estartit's sugar-soft shores are also hard to resist, as this just happens to be one of the Costa Brava's best beaches. Then there's the crystal-clear waters Platja d'Aro to consider. With a honey-coloured expanse stretching the length of the resort and the dramatic beauty of the monolith rock 'Cavall Bernat' keeping watch over things, it's a sure-fire winner, too. Decisions, decisions.
Eating out
If you're a foodie, get set for some wow-factor cuisine along the Costa Brava and Costa de Barcelona. Of course, you'll find plenty of eateries with home fare on the menu. Just head for Platja d'Aro and Lloret de Mar are you'll be spoilt for choice. But it'd be a shame not to tuck into the Catalan delights on offer here. Being right by the sea, fresh fish and seafood feature heavily on the menu and are cooked simply, yet to perfection. For a real taste of the region, order a classic like seafood 'paella' made with aromatic saffron rice or tasty 'sarsuela' a spicy fish stew. If you visit a few seaside resorts, you'll notice many have their own specialities such as rice served with squid's ink. Go a little inland and there's a whole new myriad of dishes to tempt your taste buds. Try the excellent meats such as the local 'chorizo' sausage accompanied by just-picked mushrooms. Whatever you eat while you're here, don't leave without trying the legendary 'crema catalana'. Similar to creme caramel, this moreish desert is made from rich egg custard, topped with grilled brown sugar and served chilled. Heavenly.
- El Bulli – Girona. With more than a cabinet's worth of awards under its belt, including the 'World's Best Restaurant' in 2006, this world famous gourmet restaurant near Roses will rocket you up to food heaven.
- Es Moli – Tossa de Mar. Set in the old town in an elevated position, you can tuck in to Catalan specialities on the terrace in summer or by the fireplace in winter. Emporda – Figueres. A renowned restaurant mixing up modern Catalan and French flavours.
- El Trull – Lloret de Mar. Join the locals at his popular hillside hotspot serving up fresh-from-the-net seafood.
- Clancys Bar - Estartit. If you're missing your Sunday roasts and morning fry-ups, this English favourite will go down a treat.
Nightlife
However you like to holiday after dark, these two vibrant Costas have endless options. If you want to party all night long, Lloret de Mar is where the Wild Coast lives up to its name. Without question, this is the Costa Brava's most buzzing resort after sunset. Bursting with bars, British-style pubs and nightclubs, it has more than enough to see you through to sunrise. Just as vibrant, but without the 'party paradise' tag, Estartit has a good sprinkling of drinking and dancing venues. You'll find the remaining resorts sit on the calmer side of the nightlife coin, but there's still heaps of atmosphere to surround yourself in. Kick off your night with a slap up meal at a waterfront restaurant. Then head for an al fresco bar and enjoy a drink to the sound of a live Spanish guitar player or a sultry flamenco show. However you end your day, this is evening entertainment at its best. Cheers!
- Hula Hula Polynesia Bar - Lloret de Mar. Go wild in this truly tropical bar that shakes up exotic cocktails such as Mai Tai and Coco Pae Pae.
- Prive de Magic – Lloret de Mar. Guest DJ's and pumping tunes make sure this is the town's top trendy nightclub.
- Bar El Pirata - Tossa de Mar. Party al fresco at this popular drinking den that looks out over the bay.
- Dino's Cova - Tossa de Mar. Try this little less ordinary cellar bar where dance and drink 'til late.
- Razzmatazz - Barcelona. Thousands of clubbers head to this warehouse superclub - this is 'the' place to party in Barcelona.
Shopping
If you're pretty image conscious you'll be right at home here as Catalans like to stay ahead of the trends and look good. Great news for you, as you can find up-to-the-minute clothes, shoes and accessories at prices normally better than those at home. And there's only one place to head if you really want to shop 'til you drop – Barcelona. There are chic boutiques showing off the latest labels. Glossy department stores that ooze glamour. And backstreet vintage curious for those one-off pieces. Whatever your style, don't miss a walk along the famous tree-lined Las Ramblas with its flower stalls, pavement cafes and human statues. If you prefer to pick up some traditional gifts though, an atmospheric Catalan market is a must. The Costa Brava's biggest is in Torera and Figueres has a large market in the square every Thursday. Look out for jewellery, ceramics and leather goods. Don't worry if you don't want to head too far to bag yourself a bargain or some presents to take home though, the resorts along the coastline are sprinkled with plenty of stores to browse.
