Catalonia

Catalonia occupies Spain’s north-east between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean, with its own language, cuisine and proud character. Barcelona combines Antoni Gaudí’s modernisme, the Gothic Quarter, markets and restaurants with the city beaches of Barceloneta and views from Montjuïc and Tibidabo. North towards the French border runs the Costa Brava — pine-topped cliffs, coves of turquoise water and fishing towns — with Figueres and the Salvador Dalí Theatre-Museum nearby. Montserrat and the vineyards of the Penedès, known for their sparkling wines, are close at hand.

The climate is Mediterranean: summers are warm and sunny, the beach season runs from June to September, and spring and autumn are ideal for the city and walks along the coast. Catalonia suits lovers of architecture and food, couples, families and anyone who wants to pair a great city with a quiet seaside stay.