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the rugged Mediterranean coastline to harsh mountains in the north,
Catalonia is a diverse region with a cuisine that is as varied as
its geography. From ancient to modern times, armies and tourists
alike have invaded Catalonia, making it a melting pot of other cultures
and cuisines.
Catalan cuisine exemplifies the Mediterranean diet: olive oil, seafood, garlic, vegetables and red wine are key ingredients. Some of the most common dishes are variations on ones you'll find in nearby countries: pa am tomaquet (bread with tomato; like bruschetta), bullabesa (similar to bouillabaisse) and even canalones (cannelloni) are typical. Mar it muntanya (sea and mountain) is the Catalan phrase given to combinations of fish and meat which illustrate a unique talent for combining the diverse.
Join us for a six-night
culinary tour featuring the tastes and flavors of Catalonia. You
will discover a land of outstanding beauty, from its coastal fishing
villages to its gorgeous villas and castles. Traveling along the
route of the artist Dali, you’ll visit medieval towns , lovely
beaches and private wineries.
Group transfer from Barcelona
airport to a region called Empordá where you will check into
to our beautiful and charming 4* hotel, well known for its unique
design and beautiful surroundings, the ideal place to disconnect
while you enjoy a magical ambiance.
You will be offered a “cava “( Catalonia’s famous
sparkling wine) while your guide gives you a briefing of your fantastic
culinary tour. Enjoy some free time to stroll around the hotel and
relax.
Welcome dinner at a Catalan restaurant situated in well preserved
medieval town.
Your guide will pick you up to take to
our first introductory hands-on lesson at the cooking school of
Empordá with one of Catalonia's most famous chefs. We will
learn how to prepare some Spanish typical dishes. Taste the efforts
of your cooking with a friendly lunch accompanied by excellent wines.
In the afternoon visit the fishing village of Lafranc, where you
can enjoy a lovely seaside walk along a beautiful pine grove. We’ll
drive up to the top of the hill by the “Far” and contemplate
a breathtaking panoramic view of the Mediterranean sea.
Then it’s on to
a 200 year old cellar where its owner will guide us through a fascinating
commented tasting of different Spanish wines from the region.
Free time to explore the beautiful seaside resort of Calella, have
a coffee or drink at a terrace by the sea or do some shopping. Transfer
to the hotel.
Morning Full day excursion
to the stunning Castle of Peralada. The Cellar Master will give
us an intimate tour through the extensive vineyards, the winery,
the museum, followed by an informative wine tasting in the cellar,
where the prestigious “Cava Gran Claustro” is produced.
Lunch based in regional cuisine will follow in a traditional Masia
(Catalan house). In the afternoon relax in the luxurious Wine Spa
If you prefer take a lovely walk or hit the golf course (optional).
Late in the afternoon return to the hotel. Have a walk around its
beautiful gardens, sit back and relax at one of its dining rooms
or try the fabulous gourmet menu at its fancy restaurant.
Today we will visit local
traditional producer; depending on the season we could see the fresh
cheese making process, a bakery, a rice old mill or jam museum.
We will learn how these small villages prepare their products using
authentic production methods.
Second cooking class at the same prestigious cooking school. We
will continue learning how to prepare exquisite recipes based on
the healthiest Mediterranean ingredients. A lunch composed of your
efforts, complete with Empordá´s wine, will follow.
In the afternoon we will visit the fishing port of Palamós
.We will have the chance to welcome the boats coming back from the
sea with their catch of the day learn about how they are sold by
auction at “ La Lonja” or fish market.
Back to the hotel .You might want to go shopping in the nearby town
of la Bisbal, famous for its pretty pottery and basket making .
Suggestions for dinner will be given.
Full day excursion along
the Dali´s route. In the morning we will visit an old olive
oil mill and a winery to taste some of the great wines of this region
and its unique aromatic olive oil. Afterwards, travel to Cadaques,
a typical Mediterranean fishing village (haunt of Picasso’s)
and visit the house where Dali lived. We will have a tapas style
lunch. In the afternoon stop at Figueres, to visit the amazing Salvador
Dali Museum.
Back to the hotel. Free time to rest or have an inspiring wall around
the hotel’s beautiful gardens. Suggestions of superb restaurants
will be given.
Morning excursion to
nearby medieval villages such as Pals, Peratallada and Ullastret
. Your guide will take you within their cobblestone streets, amazing
medieval walls.,,,You will also have free time to shop, wander around,
or have lunch at any of their fantastic restaurants..
Afternoon final cooking class. We can learn how to cook some Catalan
or regional specialities or any dish you may wish to learn! Farewell
gastronomic feast will follow the lesson.
After breakfast, group transfer to the Barcelona airport.
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