The Magic of Barcelona’s Modernist Art

No trip to Barcelona can be complete without a visit to the wonderful architecture of Antoni Gaudí. This Catalan architect is well known for his unique modernist art, and many buildings and even a park contain his work. While there are many examples throughout the city, below are the definite “must-sees” during your trip.

Temple de la Sagrada Familia

Perhaps the most famous of his works is the Temple de la Sagrada Familia (Temple of the Sacred Family). This magnificent construction was first built using the vision of the architects Martorell and De Villar. Antoni Gaudí then took over the project, but unfortunately passed away before the work was complete. Construction still continues and should you visit. This will be the first time you have paid to visit a construction site! Your contribution will help towards the ongoing work to complete this fascinating building.

Casa Battló

Next on your tour of Barcelona is Casa Battló in the L'Eixample neighbourhood. Originally Gaudí was commissioned to demolish the building and rebuild it from scratch, but he convinced the owner to let him completely redesign the existing structure.

This was back in the days when the Paseo de Gracia was undergoing a "keep up with the Jones'" battle with everyone trying to outdo each other with their architecture. Gaudí did an incredible job using tiles and scales on the exterior of the building, unique and beautiful interior design, and with his famous chimneys on the roof top. The balconies of this building appear to be made from large bones, giving an eerie effect when viewing the house.

Casa Milà

Nearby in the L’Eixample neighbourhood is another astonishing piece of architecture, Casa Milà (also known as La Pedrera). Antoni Gaudí was commissioned by the industrialist, Pere Milà, to construct a building on the boundary of Barcelona and Gràcia, both as a family residence and also to be leased as separate dwellings or apartments.

Owing to the way its facade appears to be carved out of rock, the Casa Milà was nicknamed "La Pedrera", which means stone quarry. The house has amazing interior architecture, as well as the famous and fascinating chimneys on the rooftop.

As an interesting side note, the fascinating chimneys and roof features apparently inspired George Lucas when designing the costumes for the "Star Wars" movies.


Parque Güell (Güell Park)

Ideal for a restful stroll after your busy days in Barcelona, the park was originally planned to be a residential area. It is now a beautiful park with many wonderful Gaudí creations in tile work and stone. The views over Barcelona to the sea are simply beautiful.

Enjoy a rest on the “wavy benches,” or have lunch at the cafeteria, surrounded by wonders.

The park also contains the house of Antoni Gaudí, which is now a museum. Gaudí lived in the house from 1906 to 1925, one year before his death. The house was bought in 1963 by the "Association of Gaudí friends" and converted into "Casa Museu Gaudí," an interesting museum displaying unique furniture, drawings and decor designed by Gaudí himself in conjunction with Josep María Jujol.

So, pack the camera and plenty of batteries, and put on some comfortable walking shoes while you see the sights. For more information please visit All Barcelona Accommodation

Isola d’Elba – the jewel of Tuscany

The Isola d’Elba is the largest island off the region of Tuscany, Italy. Its stunning natural beauty has lead to it being a valued part of Italy’s third largest national park - Arcipelago Toscana National Park. Nowadays the island is perhaps best known for its scorching summer sunshine, pristine beaches and ‘o so peaceful’ secluded island life.



There is no doubt the island is any adventure seeker’s playground, the ragged coastline makes it any water sports enthusiasts’ haven, you’ll find many beaches offer water sports classes or tours such as windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing. (It’s also possible to hire all of this equipment privately).If you’re looking to sail the seven seas you can arrange to go on a boat tour or hire out your very own private speedboat. Often highlights include being taken to see the pirate shipwreck just off the island’s coast.

If you prefer to keep your feet firmly on solid ground, the Island you may be pleasantly surprised on the range of land activities available on such a small island. Apart from the obvious, such as shopping, discovering the local villages and eating out you may find a trying out one of the following activities will make for an unforgettable holiday.
For those who have a need for speed, the local go karting track provides the perfect opportunity in a family friendly environment. The café area beside the track is designed around an old yellow school bus, the table games (such as table football and air hockey) the high rise tables all give the place the feel of an American dinner - all in all it’s a guaranteed winner!



The islanders of Elba are very proud that the island was once a refuge for no other than Napoleon Bonaparte when he was exiled by….. As a result a popular attraction is Napoleon’s island estate which is open to the public. Beware – if you’re only visiting his humble abode to escape the rain, you won’t be alone. During the summer months, the number of visitors quadruples when bored beach goers are forced to find other ways to entertain themselves.
Finally if you’re a keen hiker or cyclist, Elba won’t disappoint. Popular routes include the beach trail and the steep climb up Monte Capanne. Don’t fancy braving the hike, but still want to witness the spectacular views across the island? Luckily there is also a cable car service which operates in high season so you won’t have to put in any of the leg work!

Day trips from Barcelona

We all love Barcelona, but if you’re here for a week or more, sometimes it can be nice and take a little break from the hectic hubbub of city life. Here are a few ideas of great day trips you can take from Barcelona.

Montserrat
Situated roughly an hour away from Barcelona, the mystical monastery of Montserrat feels worlds away. Getting there is simple enough, hop on the ferrocarril (train) from Sants train station and from there you will have two options of how to get up the mountain. You can either go up via cable car, or you can opt for the funicular. Once you’ve made it to the top you’ll immediately appreciate the spectacular views and fresh mountain air. You can pay a visit to the Montserrat monastery and if you’re lucky you may be just in time to hear the choir boys sing. A trip to Montserrat will always be an unforgettable adventure.


Montserrat – by lukasz dzierzanowski

Sitges
Sitges is a typical Spanish fishing village, and unlike many seaside resorts around the Costa Dorada, it hasn’t been spoilt by ugly hotels or flattened by golf courses. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the charming white-washed walls and narrow authentic streets. Sitges is also especially known for hosting the Sitges film festival and Sitges carnival. It’s also a popular gay destination (especially around the time of the carnival). During the summer Sitges is very popular amongst Barcelonans who go to take advantage of its beautiful beaches.


Sitges by Nicole Lerner

Port Aventura / Illa Fantasia
Ok, so perhaps these aren’t places you’d go for a relaxing escape from the city… but, having said that an adrenaline rush never hurt anyone! Port Aventura is a huge theme park where you’ll be able to travel from Mexico, through the wild Wild West all the way to China and back to the Mediterranean.
Illa Fantasia is a fantastic water park, a perfect escape for a hot summer’s day. As you could probably guess the park is only open during the summer months (April – September). With endless pools, slides, floats and more, get ready to get wet!


Port Aventura - by Gnislew