My month in Catalonia was filled with splendid moments and beauty. Traveling does not come without its challenges, but the winds here blew favorably.
Posting these images however was a challenge, thus the order is a bit “creative.” Let us say it’s Dalí inspired. Cadaques: Yes it has its share of tourists, but it’s still a WOW. The castle above Monestir de Sant Pere de Rodes
View of Roses from the castle above Monestir de Sant Pere de RodesMonestir de Sant Pere de Rodes:
Founded in the 9th c. monks here produced and sold wine from vineyards once vast and abundant.Calella de Palafrugell: Tourists are abundant, but the town has managed to keep its integrity and charm.Calella de Palafrugell: fishermen set off at dusk.Port de Llançá: A Maritime Mural “Banc de Peix” by Carles BrosCadaquésCap de Creus: the eastern most point of SpainOne can hike or drive up to this eatery, next to the Cap de Creus lighthouse, with spectacular views. The food tastes even better after the hike though.Roof view of Salvador Dali’s home in Port LligatDali and Gala’s home in Port LLigat converted from small fishermen’s homes on the left. Perhaps you can see the eggs.Cadaques
Charcuterie is taken very seriously in Ribes de Freser and almost everywhere else. Parc Natural dels Aiguamolls de L’Emporda: The dry weather deterred the birds but the strong winds attracted many a windsurfer Parc Natural dels Aiguamolls de L’Emporda Girona: Fine architecture, museums, and an ancient quarter where Jews lived until they were expelled from Spain in the 15th c. I walked upon these narrow streets and felt reverberations of that history. Banners encouraging Catalonians to vote (according to the Spanish government,illegally)”Yes” for independence were everywhere. The issue remains contentious and unresolved. Barcelona’s Palau de la Musica Catalana where I saw Spanish guitarists and flamenco dancers perform. But just to marvel at the theatre is reason enough to go.
I got a chuckle seeing who was using the pools from the 1992 Barcelona Summer Olympics.
View from the trail of an arduous but spectacular hike (all up) from Queralbs to Vall de Nuria.On the hiking trail to Vall de Nuria. A train is the only other means of transportation.
Camprodon: One of many stunning towns in my travels. This bridge is credited to be built in the 13th c.Another arduous, but gorgeous hike up through fields and forests brought me to this refuge Pla de l’Erola for lunch. Charcuterie, steak, bread, salad, cheese, and sausage were offered all in ample portions. The cook’s dogs politely waited for the inevitable leftovers.Mushroom picking season was at its height. I dared not tempt fate by picking any on my own.A grocery in the hamlet of PlanolesI asked these men at the town cattle fair where I might get a stick like theirs. The seated gentleman graciously gave me his. It came in very handy during my hikes.
Gala: Salvador Dalí and Gala’s boat at Port LLigat Gala’s image in Gala’s castle in Pubol. Dalí bought this castle for her and she lived there under the condition that he only visit with her permission. Dali and Gala’s home in Port LLigatDali’s interior design. Even if you don’t care for his taste, one has to give him credit for his imagination.
Silos in Parc Natural dels Aiguamolls de l’EmpordThe remanant of a once thriving paper mill in Ribes de Freser. Although the town now sees its share of tourists, it remains unspoiled.
MACBA: One of Barcelona’s modern art museums and a popular skateboard spot.
MACBA Vall de Nuria-I slept in the hostel up here. That night it snowed. Heading down the next day brought me to summer temperatures.
Besalú-One of many stunning towns still thriving from the Middle AgesBeget:a medieval village lost in time
Salvador Dali’s Teatro Museo-A wonderland for his zany creativity and over-the-top excentricity. It was built from the ruins of a 19th c. theatre, destroyed during the Spanish Civil War.Teatro -Museo Dalí
Teatro-Museo Dalí in Figueres, his place of birth and childhood.It had been a while since I’d thought of Dalí. I was reminded of his prodigious talent and imagination during this visit.Empúries: A thriving trading post in both Greek and Roman times. Note the ruts of cart wheels are still evident.Castle up from the Monestir de Sant Pere de Rodes offering a splendid 360 degree viewMore hiking in the PyreneesWalking with my walking stick. The journey continues…
Dali and Gala’s home in Port LLigat
