Barcelona | Costa Brava Holidays and Vacations

For any lovers of Spanish art, architecture and musicthe Route of the Four Geniuses is a trip you should take . Close to your Costa Dorada vacation rental , this route paints a picture of the unique landscapes, birthplaces and villages which influenced four of the greatest creative talent Spain has ever known – Gaudi, Miro, Picasso and Pau Casals.  The route explores four towns close to the city of Tarragona which have all inspired each individual artist at some point in their lives. The first village El Vendrell is located 35 kilometres north of Tarragona, this was the birthplace of Pau (Pablo) Casals, a renowned Spanish composer and musician. Casals was a cellist, a conductor and composer and is known to be one of the greatest cellists of this age. El Vendrell is home to the Pau Casals Vila Museum which tells the story of his life and many compositions. Reus is the next city on your trail, itwas the birthplace of Antoni Gaudíwho brought us the magnificent Sagr...

When you mention the region of Tarragona, many people think of the city, majestic with its Roman ruins, beautiful golden beaches, excellent restaurants and a vibrant nightlife - but the region of Tarragona isn’t just about one city, it’s so much more. If you are planning to rent a villa on the Costa Dorada , don’t just stick to the main tourist areas, explore a little further and you will be surprised at the wonders you will find.   The region of Tarragona mainly comprises coastal areas, Tarragona itself being the star attraction. However, the inland territory has plenty of pretty villages and fertile pastures which grow grapes, olives, hemp, cereals and silk and marble and limestone quarries render the region both rich and heritage and natural resources. Tortosa is one of the lesser known cities worth exploring, it has a unique charm which captivates visitor’s imagination transporting them back to days gone by. It’s an easy place to reach, less than one hour’s drive...

Catalonia is steeped in history and if you are lucky enough to rent a villa in the Costa Brava you will have the opportunity to experience it all. Leading from the coast near Calella de Palafrugell are several endearing medieval villages which should be on your itinerary to visit. If you are hiring a car or are a keen cyclist this is the perfect time to get out and about around Catalonia. From Palafrugell take the C-31 road to Pals first of all. Pals is a pretty hilltop medieval village with charming squares, tapas bars, ceramic shops and stunning panoramic views from the cobbled streets and village walls. It’s a great place to begin your medieval village trail. From here your next port of call should take you to the pretty village of Peratallada, the name means “carved stone” and it’s easy to see why, this compact fortified medieval town is built from carved stone from the moat which encircles it. The Romanesque church of Saint Stephen dates back to the 13 th century...

When we think of choosing a destination for our CostaMaresme Vacation Rental we will usually think of Calella de la Costa or Malgrat de Mar. However, there are many other lesser known towns which make up this coastline just north of Barcelona which are often overlooked. Charming Spanish coastal towns with fewer tourists and a more relaxed ambiance may just be what you are looking for. Arenys de Mar Located a short train, car or bus ride from central Barcelona sits the pretty fishing town of Arenys de Mar. It’s been an important fishing port in this region for centuries, the town even hasits own fisherman’s quarter, the origins of which date back to the 14 th century. The town hosts many pieces of Modernist artwork for which the region is famous, and there are 10 defence towers to protect the town from invaders as the wealth from the fishing industry grew. The centre of the town is Rambla, it is here you will discover the beautiful baroque designed Santa Maria Church, if yo...

Calella is a popular seaside town which is a tourist destination for both foreign and Spanish visitors. Not to be confused with its quaint Costa Brava cousinCalella de Palafrugell, Calella de la Costa is a larger town located on the Costa Maresme and is well known for being a lively tourist resort close to your Barcelona holiday rental . In addition to the family friendly golden sandy beach which stretches 3 kilometres, the resort also hosts numerous amenities like souvenir shops, restaurants, bars and supermarkets- it also has an eclectic nightlife. The centre of the resort is not really the place for a relaxing break as there is so much to see and do, however the old town is perfect for walking the cobbled streets and discovering authentic restaurants and tapas bars. For a more chilled out vibe head to the neighbouring resorts of Arenys de Mar , San Feliu de Guixols and Pineda de Mar. Also feel like taking in some nature and wildlife, a short walk from the town centre you...