A Journey Through Catalonia
Even on a fairly short journey, such as that from Barcelona to Lloret de Mar, you may get at least some taste for Catalonia and its numerous attractions.
Understanding the region
It's probably fair to say that the majority of people travelling from Barcelona to Lloret de Mar are doing so in order to get from the airport or railway station to the bustling resort with its hotels and beaches.
You probably also couldn't argue with the assertion that, as you head north from Barcelona to Lloret de Mar along the coast, one isn't really seeing Catalonia in all its glories but rather one particular aspect of it - namely the beaches and resorts.
There is nothing at all wrong with these and, in fact, millions of people travel to this lengthy coastline every year in order to partake of the fantastic sunshine, great beaches and beautiful blue seas. Yet if that is all you get to see when visiting this semi-autonomous region of Spain, you may be missing so much more.
Cuisine
Just to begin with, you need to try and find some authentic Catalan tapas. Contrary to what you may believe, traditionally these are not served as a starter and they are perhaps more authentically found in bars than in restaurants. Why? In Spain, the evening meal tends to be later in the day, when the sun has set and the temperature has cooled significantly. So, at the height of summer, Catalan families may sit down for their main evening meal at around 10-11.00 pm.
What that means is that by early evening, people are usually peckish and may stop at a tapas bar to have a drink and some light snacks before their evening meal - although they can of course be eaten at any time of the day.
Try to do likewise and sample some in a bar in the early evening. Look for a bar that's authentic and aimed at locals rather than visitors - it might be a very different tapas experience to that you are used to!
History and culture
If you travel along the Mediterranean Coast of Catalonia, inevitably many of what were once fishing villages have now been developed into resorts. However, that isn't always the case and, if you have a car, it is well worth driving to some of those smaller coastal dots listed on maps. You may be surprised at just how many of them have retained their original small size and charm.
Yet Catalonia is also rich in heritage and culture, even if that isn't necessarily always directly on the beach. For example, from Lloret de Mar, the fascinating and ancient city of Girona (Gerona) is within relatively easy reach. It has a wealth of ancient buildings and tiny streets to explore, and some quite staggering architecture along the riverbank.
There are many such villages and towns set just a few kilometres away from the coastal strip. It is in these locations that you may well find the true Catalonia, with its ancient history, wines, stunning scenery and amazing architecture.
So when travelling from Barcelona to Lloret de Mar, try to remember you are surrounded by one of the most fascinating areas of Europe. Pulling yourself away from the sand and sea to explore it might just prove to be a truly memorable experience.
Understanding the region
It's probably fair to say that the majority of people travelling from Barcelona to Lloret de Mar are doing so in order to get from the airport or railway station to the bustling resort with its hotels and beaches.
You probably also couldn't argue with the assertion that, as you head north from Barcelona to Lloret de Mar along the coast, one isn't really seeing Catalonia in all its glories but rather one particular aspect of it - namely the beaches and resorts.
There is nothing at all wrong with these and, in fact, millions of people travel to this lengthy coastline every year in order to partake of the fantastic sunshine, great beaches and beautiful blue seas. Yet if that is all you get to see when visiting this semi-autonomous region of Spain, you may be missing so much more.
Cuisine
Just to begin with, you need to try and find some authentic Catalan tapas. Contrary to what you may believe, traditionally these are not served as a starter and they are perhaps more authentically found in bars than in restaurants. Why? In Spain, the evening meal tends to be later in the day, when the sun has set and the temperature has cooled significantly. So, at the height of summer, Catalan families may sit down for their main evening meal at around 10-11.00 pm.
What that means is that by early evening, people are usually peckish and may stop at a tapas bar to have a drink and some light snacks before their evening meal - although they can of course be eaten at any time of the day.
Try to do likewise and sample some in a bar in the early evening. Look for a bar that's authentic and aimed at locals rather than visitors - it might be a very different tapas experience to that you are used to!
History and culture
If you travel along the Mediterranean Coast of Catalonia, inevitably many of what were once fishing villages have now been developed into resorts. However, that isn't always the case and, if you have a car, it is well worth driving to some of those smaller coastal dots listed on maps. You may be surprised at just how many of them have retained their original small size and charm.
Yet Catalonia is also rich in heritage and culture, even if that isn't necessarily always directly on the beach. For example, from Lloret de Mar, the fascinating and ancient city of Girona (Gerona) is within relatively easy reach. It has a wealth of ancient buildings and tiny streets to explore, and some quite staggering architecture along the riverbank.
There are many such villages and towns set just a few kilometres away from the coastal strip. It is in these locations that you may well find the true Catalonia, with its ancient history, wines, stunning scenery and amazing architecture.
So when travelling from Barcelona to Lloret de Mar, try to remember you are surrounded by one of the most fascinating areas of Europe. Pulling yourself away from the sand and sea to explore it might just prove to be a truly memorable experience.