Heel Catalonia Of course, you don't discover things from one day to the next. But with the Grand Tour of about 1500 km you will pass all the hidden gems that this region has to offer. Car, camper, caravan? Catalonia is the place to be. Start your adventure in Barcelona and from there it's just peaks. Literally peaks because you go into the picturesque mountains of Montserrat and descends with a glass of cava at the vineyards of PenedesThe beautiful beaches of Sitges and the Costa Daurada lead you to Cambrils, where history buffs can indulge in Roman heritage. It all depends on what you like! Prefer beautiful green views? On the way to deltebre you pass rice fields, swamps and wild animals. And towards the Montblanc. find yourself in the vineyards of Priorat – and in this case that is completely positive.

Let's go a little further on tour! The medieval Montblanc. let's leave it behind and exchange it for the aperitif: ratafia in La Pobla de Insurance. Here you can not only enjoy a tasty snack, but also hike through the beautiful landscape of Valley of BoiFor some extra excitement you can go on the river Noguera Pallaresa go rafting. Plenty to do, see and experience, so hop hop, step on the gas and tear through Catalonia!

In a nutshell this is the Grand Tour through Catalonia, which you can of course arrange as you wish. We have the highlights already listed for you.

What exactly does the Grand Tour look like? You will find it here.

Barcelona may be the headliner of Catalonia, but don't dismiss the rest of Catalonia! In fact, the Emporda region, on about an hour by car from Barcelona, ​​is our personal favorite. Emporda may not ring a bell, but it is the area where you can see the colorful city Begur finds, the small (and oh so idyllic) coastal town Sa Tuna and the pleasant Palafrugell. Driving from Barcelona is a great option, but if you want to get here straight away, it's best to Girona flying (also a recommended city; bet you'll recognize the architecture from Game of Thrones?). Where you can be? Read here: The best of the Spanish region of Emporda (Begur / Palafrugell and surroundings).

(and okay, here too a shortcut: Xiringuito Ultramar, Toc al Mar, Tragamar, Hostal Sa Rascassa, La Blava, Margarita, Xiringuito Olívia)

You say wine, we ask what time we need to be where. Certainly in the case of Terra Dominicata, a winery with picnics in the vineyards and barrel-shaped spa huts, si si! The former monastery that houses Terra Dominicata is a two-hour drive from Barcelona, ​​and feels like a world away. The hotel’s low-lying 12th-century pink buildings are nestled among the rocky mountains of the Priorat. Arid as it may seem, it produces some of the world’s most prized red wines. Adults only, and the ultimate relaxing spot for those who appreciate a glass.

The cheerfully packed tables on the terrace of Narita overlook the central square of Cadaqués, and you might expect a tourist trap but nothing could be further from the truth: the Japanese-inspired menu is probably the most unique you will find in Cadaqués, while the interior combines the atmosphere of an Izakaya (an informal Japanese tavern) with the spirited Mediterranean cuisine. The chefs cook in an open space and bottles of natural wine with cool labels are lined up for you to choose from.

A DIKE of a recommendation heart Cadaqués? Hotel Casa Nereta! Mark our words. Eand more than a charming boutique hotel in the picturesque coastal town it is, in the heart of the city and thanks to the traditional Catalan architecture in the mix with all modern amenities it fits perfectly with the Mediterranean Sea and the whitewashed buildings in the area. The rooms simple but beautiful and elegant, and common areas, and the service, are what you book for. That, plus the location of course: the house-museum of Salvador Dalí is around the corner, a must to visit. Hotel Casa Nereta

It means something when a walking route (okay, okay: a hike) has its own Instagram account. Pictures sometimes say more than words, so if you want to put your foot in it, when in Catalunya, then be sure to check this out @camidaronda.

Camí de Ronda is spectacular: a coastal path along rocky cliffs, secret bays and to small beach villages. Anyway, if you want to walk, Camí de Ronda is not to be missed. If you start in Cadaqués and walk from that town, even the short walking routes are good for at least 100 ooohs and aaaahs.

Did you know you can also ski in the winter months Catalan Pyrenees? It is. It may seem crazy, but the area Boí Taüll has blue skies (mostly) and peaks as far as the ski goggles can see. The highest peak in the Pyrenees is Puig Falcó at 2751 meters can be found here.

O how we love Barcelona! You can read all our tips in the Burgundian city on the beach here: Bart's Booklet Barcelona

Do you only have one weekend and you have to choose? Then restaurant Cañete definitely a favorite: great tapas and preferably sitting at the bar. Reservations are a must. Same goes for Berbera! And further: Bar de Pla, try to get the spot in the window, and don't miss the patatas bravas under any circumstances. Bar Alegria is a perfect spot just outside the hustle and bustle. Bar Verdena for natural wine and bar hanging. The Balabusta is especially a great place for lunch. Fracas: a perfect mix between a trendy and classic wine bar. Ptge. de Marcader: here you will find Baldomero (lunch, with a hidden roof terrace), but also a few very nice terraces, very old school, very charming. The One of the Vi is a super nice (natural) wine bar in the El Born district, run by the nicest/most cheerful couple in Spain (I think). La Silver: you can't get more authentic than this and the fried sardines are in great demand here. The Xampanyet: with legs out here, and rightly so!

If you've finished this list, but you want to do some more, then be sure to follow along @costabravaguide on instagram. Full of top tips.