Celebrate Catalan National Day in the Calella de Palafrugell
For the last 20 years Catalonia has celebrated its day of national pride on September 11. This historical date refers back to September 11 in 1714, when Barcelona, following a 13-month siege, surrendered to the Castilian and French soldiers.
There are many regions of Spain, all of which are distinct in landscape, history and culture, but no more so than Catalonia, proudly retaining an identity which borrows little from the rest of Spain. The Catalan National day is yet more evidence of Catalonia’s yearning for independence from the rest of Spain.
Catalonia is of course home of the Costa Brava. Although this was one of the first stretches of Spanish coast to be developed by mass tourism, the Costa Brava boasts many traditional fishing villages, encompassed by impenetrable forests of Mediterranean pine trees, sporadic clusters of wild flowers arbitrarily sprouting colour amongst the evergreen and rugged cliffs cascading down to rocky coves and coarse sandy beaches.
One of the most exquisite fishing villages on this stunning stretch of coastline is Calella de Palafrugell. Blessed with blue skies and the first shades of yellow beginning to emerge of the evergreen trees, autumn is perhaps the most perfect time to experience the serenity and magnetism of this traditionally Catalonian town, particularly in early September when the Catalans are celebrating their national day.
Without any true coastal road, the winding coastal path is made from natural local resources, in keeping with the surroundings. The path steeply ascends pretty stone steps and descends around a string of coves with well-maintained mallorquinas (traditional fishing boats) orderly moored on the beaches. The whitewashed archways line the beachfront, bowing over the many elegant boutiques, bars and restaurants. In contrast to the simple white pueblo, the hillsides behind, stand rich and elaborate villas of rose, yellow and stone with impressive turrets and vibrant gardens, fringed by tropical cacti.
With the summer beginning to conclude and the beauty of autumn beckoning, and when the friendly locals are excitedly celebrating their day of pride with fun and fireworks filling the air, September 11 is perhaps the best date to experience the true beauty this magical area has to offer.
Click here for travel information about Calella de Palafrugell.