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
