Calella - Catalunya
From the moment you descend from the colorful Pyrenees, which stand guard at the border with France, you are waiting to come face-to-face with the blue of the Mediterranean. Only the sea is left waiting, hidden in the dense fog that rises from the last hills. First time in Spain, and already after so much waiting and preparation, I’m eager to quickly get to know the places browsed in advance on Internet maps.
I arrived early around seven in the morning after driving all night. The city was rising fast and maintenance was in full swing for a new day of adventures. A multitude of people from distributors, hoteliers, florists and boutique patrons were busy getting everything ready when the city wakes up!
Obviously, first of all I had to see the sea, the sunrise, the sand and print the first landmarks of the places. My first impressions were taking shape and I was dying to see more already.
Photographically speaking, it was the beginning of the summer session. The color of the sea contrasts with the bars on the beach and the shadows of the palm trees are quickly sought by the heated crowd.
The Costa Brava is famous for its spectacular beaches which, in high season, are full of people enjoying the sun, taking walks on the seashore, practicing water sports or relaxing at the beach bars. Platja Gran and Platja de les Roques, the most famous beaches, become the playground for those passionate about sun, sand and crystal clear water. A symphony of colorful umbrellas, deckchairs and water activities find their place in this charming setting.
The city of Calella is also known for its nightlife with crazy vibes. There may also be cultural events or local festivals worth documenting, such as music festivals or art exhibitions. Documenting the local architecture and history of the city can be captivating. It has several historical points, old churches or monuments that deserve attention and can give an insight into its rich past. Moreover, the lighthouse at the end of the city, silently combines lights and sublime colors. Amid this effervescence, interactions with locals and tourists yield fascinating stories. Every smile hides a story, and every encounter can reveal a different perspective on summer life in this corner of heaven.
Short Description
Located in the province of Catalonia, it enjoys an architecture full of Mediterranean charm. A significant part of the urban landscape is represented by modernist and Art Nouveau style buildings, which reflect a period of development and prosperity in the past.
The narrow streets are flanked by buildings with facades decorated in bright colors and important details. The architectural style of Lluís Domènech i Montaner, a Catalan architect famous for his modernist works, is visible in some of the buildings. Decorative elements, artistic ironwork and elaborately carved balconies are characteristic of this architectural style.
In addition, Calella is also home to impressive examples of religious architecture, such as the Parish Church of Santa Maria and the Great Chapel of the Holy Cross. These structures showcase Gothic and Baroque details in a spectacular way.
While the older areas of the city are dominated by historic buildings, recent development has also brought modern architecture to the urban landscape. Beachfront hotels, restaurants and amenities often blend into the architectural landscape with contemporary and functional designs, accentuating the area’s natural beauty.
The Hotels
Calella is home to a variety of hotels that complete the tourist experience in this destination on the Costa Brava. From luxury hotels to more affordable options, the diversity of the offer meets everyone’s needs and preferences.
Beach hotels offer a splendid panorama of the Mediterranean Sea and are preferred by those looking for relaxation and comfort. They offer amenities such as infinity pools, direct beach access and premium services.
In addition, there are boutique hotels in the city center with a special charm and an emphasis on details and design. These locations offer an intimate atmosphere and personalized service to satisfy the tastes of those looking for a more authentic experience.
For travelers on a tighter budget, there are plenty of more affordable hotel options that offer quality service and decent amenities, such as comfortable rooms, breakfast included, or pool access.
Gastronomy of the coast
Local gastronomy is an essential chapter. With a diverse range of restaurants and taverns, the gastronomy of Calella reflects the passion for fresh ingredients and authentic dishes. Fresh seafood is a special attraction in the local cuisine. Paella, an iconic dish, delights the taste buds with its fragrant rice cooked with seafood, aromatic spices and olive oil. Grilled seafood or squid dishes are also a staple on Calella’s tables, often served with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs.
There are also traditional Catalan dishes, such as butifarra (a variety of sausages) or escalivada (a dish with cooked vegetables), which demonstrate the ability to transform simple ingredients into true delicacies.
In search of sweets, tourists can enjoy Catalan creme, a dessert similar to creme brûlée, but with a distinct lemon or orange zest flavor.
The relaxed atmosphere of Calella is complemented by the picturesque terraces of the cafes, where you can enjoy Spanish coffee or try various types of tapas, delicious snacks that allow you to discover a variety of flavors in one serving.
Gastronomy in Calella is not only a culinary experience, but also a foray into local culture and traditions, where exquisite cuisine and welcoming atmosphere combine to offer an unforgettable experience to tourists from around the world.
Transport means
In Calella, transport options are varied and offer travelers multiple ways to get around the city and its surroundings.
From trains to taxis and public transport, there are solutions for all preferences and needs.
Trains are a popular and efficient way to travel in and out of the city. Calella station is part of the regional train network, allowing travelers quick and convenient access to destinations such as Barcelona, Girona or other cities and resorts on the Mediterranean coast.
The trains are well maintained and offer comfort during the journey, making it a preferred option for those who want to explore the surrounding region.
A train journey from Calella to Barcelona is a pleasant and comfortable experience, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the scenery and relax as you travel along the Mediterranean coast.
Departing from Calella station, trains offer a frequent and efficient service to Barcelona. The route goes through breathtaking landscapes, following the seashore and passing sunny beaches and picturesque bays. Expect to admire the view alongside local passengers and tourists who appreciate the scenic ride.
The trains that ply this route are quite comfortable. The journey time varies depending on the type of train and intermediate stations, but generally takes about an hour.
As you approach Barcelona, you will feel the atmosphere on the train change, as the city is always full of energy. But I will tell you about Barcelona in another episode…
Taxis are also available in Calella and are easy to find in central areas and at the train station. These are useful for faster journeys or to reach places further away from the city or nearby at quite advantageous prices. It is important to remember that taxi drivers should use the meters to calculate the price of the journey and it is always advisable to ask for a fare estimate before starting the journey. Everything is negotiable!
Public transport is an affordable and convenient option for getting around Calella and its surroundings. Local buses serve the city and the surrounding area, providing links to various areas, including beaches and residential areas. This is a suitable way to reach places less accessible by other means of transport and to explore the varied landscapes of the region.
When it comes to travel planning, it’s a good idea to check the timetables and availability of transport in advance to ensure you have the information you need for your trip. Also, depending on the season and demand, it can be useful to consider reservations or pay attention to the crowds at certain times.
Overall, the diversity of transportation options in Calella gives travelers the opportunity to tailor their trip to their specific preferences, budget and needs.
Calella Lighthouse
I left behind one of the most impressive vestiges of the region, namely: the Lighthouse of Calella, located in a strategic place along the coast. Built in a classical architectural style, this iconic lighthouse has been a hallmark of the city over the years.
Standing proudly on top of a hill, the lighthouse not only provides a reference point for ships sailing along the Mediterranean coast, but also a stunning panoramic view of the city and the blue waters stretching to the horizon.
The Calella lighthouse combines its architectural beauty with its vital functionality. The interior serves as a museum today. During quiet summer evenings, the lighthouse becomes a focal point of fascination, its light blending with the warm colors of the sunset.
In the sunlight: Calella, a jewel of the Mediterranean coast
If one day you think that your roads are headed south or if you even plan to reach Catalonia, you can trust the local people, they are simple, welcoming, warm and sociable. There is a strong sense of pride in local history and culture, and many local events and festivals are a way of celebrating their identity and heritage. They make this area such an attractive and interesting destination for visitors.
