Are we ever going home?
Day, like, 99: Okay, it was only day 13, but after a relaxing Start in Sitges, and a side adventure of Sun and Surrealist Shenanigans in Costa Brava, we were fully immersed in the Mediterranean culture of sun and relaxation. Time had no meaning.
Pancho booked us another adventure, a guided Kayaking excursion from Platja Terramar to Playa Villanova, an exhilarating way to explore the coastline. Paddling along the turquoise Mediterranean water, admiring the rugged cliffs and secluded beaches, the tour delivered stunning views of the Garraf Coast. Platja Terramar and Playa Villanova, nestled along the vibrant south coast of Barcelona, are more than just sun-soaked stretches of sand—they are living postcards of history and natural beauty.
Platja Terramar is where the charm of old-world Catalonia meets the lively spirit of the Mediterranean. As the main beach in Sitges, it commands attention with its grand promenade lined with elegant early-modernist mansions, boutique hotels, gourmet restaurants, cafés, and ice cream shops. The beach itself is wide and welcoming, with golden sands gently sloping into the sea—a perfect spot for both relaxation and water sports.
Playa Villanova, on the other hand, offers a more secluded and tranquil escape. This beach is a favorite among locals who appreciate its laid-back vibe and unspoiled beauty. But beyond its serene facade lies a history that dates back centuries. Villanova’s strategic coastal position made it a key lookout point during the Middle Ages, when the threat of pirate attacks was a real concern for coastal communities. Today, you won’t find any pirates, but you will find crystal-clear waters, soft sands, and a peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for a low-key beach day. Whether you’re kayaking along its shores or simply soaking up the sun, Playa Villanova offers a slice of Catalonia’s coastal heritage, wrapped in the natural splendor of the Mediterranean.
After a long afternoon beach nap, some poolside drinks, and another nap, Pancho and Gabriel surprised us with a different kind of dip—into the sonic wonderland that was Barcelona’s Cruïlla music festival, a throbbing maze of beats and riffs with over 50 acts spread across several days. Saturday night’s scene was a wild mix of rock icons from my college years and indie upstarts that now dominate my Spotify playlists, all colliding in a beautiful symphony of sound.
Cruïlla’s known for its nocturnal nature; headliners don’t even think about taking the stage until midnight, cranking out tunes until the break of dawn. We rolled in late, just in time to get our minds blown by the synth-pop legends Pet Shop Boys who were on stage for nearly 2 hours. We then basked in the grunge-soaked nostalgia of the Smashing Pumpkins, and the raw, post-punk energy of Johnny Marr as he ripped through The Smiths’ classics. It was a night where the music never slept, and neither did we.
Day 14: After the musical mayhem of Cruïlla, we found ourselves in need of another day of recovery so decided to blissfully lounge at Playa de los Muertos with friends Waldo and Martin, who, by some stroke of luck, happened to be in Sitges and Barcelona at the same time. This little reunion turned into a full-on fiesta of sun, sea, and splendor.
Playa de los Muertos, for those not in the know, is one of those unapologetic nude beaches that make Spain, which can be conservative in parts, such an enigma. Beyond that, it’s nearly 100% gay, which adds a whole new layer to the scene. Why is it a gay beach, you ask? Apparently, in the ’70s, as Spain was emerging from Franco’s shadow, Sitges became a safe haven for the LGBTQ+ community. The beach quickly turned into a symbol of freedom and expression—a place where you could let it all hang out (literally) without fear of judgment.
After soaking up the sun and people-watching (which, let’s be honest, is half the fun), we treated ourselves to lunch at a clifftop café overlooking the beach. With panoramic views of the Mediterranean and a splash of sangria, it was the perfect way to toast to friendship and freedom.
Day 15: No trip to Spain’s Mediterranean coast would be complete without at least one day in Barcelona, the vibrant city is a tapestry (or tapas?) of culture, history, food, and architecture. Our day started by putting the fun in Funicular via an ascent up Montjuïc. The arial transport contraption whisks visitors up the hillside, sparing you the strain of climbing but not the awesome views. Atop the summit, Montjuïc Castle stands as a historical sentinel, offering sweeping views and a glimpse into the city’s multifaceted past. Originally a lighthouse, the castle evolved through the ages to become a military fortress, and now, a museum, giving visitors a taste of Barcelona’s strategic importance in military history.
Descending from Montjuïc, we made our way to the Monument al Colom, a tribute to Christopher Columbus, which marks the beginning of the famous boulevard, La Rambla. This bustling avenue showcases the vibrant culture of Barcelona, stretching from Colom to Plaça Catalunya and peppered with street performers, local artists, and vendors offering everything from fresh flowers to aromatic lattes. Just a short walk away, we enjoyed a coffee under the regal palm trees of Plaça Reial, with its Gaudí-designed lampposts casting a royal glow. Known for its lively ambiance, this square is the perfect spot to recharge and immerse in the city’s dynamic street life and stunning architecture.
Hearing that Gaudí’s Sagrada Família is still under construction (surprise, surprise), we redirected our architectural adventure to the Barcelona Cathedral. This lesser known Gothic masterpiece, which began its rise in the 13th century, displays a rich tapestry of architectural styles and fine art that chronicle the city’s religious and artistic evolution. Stepping inside, we were captivated by its majestic interior, a true feast for the senses. Don’t miss the rooftop tour; it offers sweeping panoramic views over the Gothic Quarter, all framed by the cathedral’s intricate spires and watchful gargoyles.
The day was perfectly rounded off with a late lunch with friends Waldo and Martin, embracing the local tradition of long, leisurely meals, our stomachs finally in sync with Spain’s unusual dining hours. We toasted to our reunion and the joys of Spanish dining, where meals are savored slowly and every bite tells a story.
Final Days: The remainder of our trip was blissfully spent lounging on the serene beaches of Sitges. Our Spanish sojourn unfolded as a whirlwind of friends, fun, and feasting, leaving us with sun-kissed skin and a trove of unforgettable memories. From the tranquil shores of Sitges to the rugged cliffs and ancient allure of Costa Brava, and the globally celebrated architecture of Barcelona, each locale offered its own unique blend of adventure and relaxation. We explored majestic castles, plunged into the crystal-clear waters of secluded coves, and lost ourselves in the vibrant rhythms of local music festivals. Each city provided a distinct taste and the kind of profound cultural immersion that only Spain can deliver.
So, until next time, Spain, keep the sangria flowing and the tapas warm. We’ll be back for more adventures under the beautiful sunlit skies. Hasta luego!
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