Published 1st Dec. 2022
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Barcelona is a sprawling Gaudí and Art Nouveau masterpiece, painting its way across the coastline and basking in the Mediterranean sun. This metropolitan mecca has been wining, dining and inspiring tourists for generations, with its soul-stirring manmade wonders and tapas aplenty. Of course, with its urban beauty being so instantly recognisable, it’s easy to assume you’ve seen the best that this city has to offer, but under the surface there’s still so much to discover. Escape the tourist hordes of the (still under construction) Sagrada Familia and seek a different perspective from the panoramic views at the Parc Güell. Go in search of the roads less trodden, from the mountainous Montserrat, carving its way through the craggy landscape, to the tranquillity of the Grec Gardens and Amphitheatre, there are countless hidden gems in Barcelona ready to be explored and we can help you to uncover them...
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We’re taking some creative liberties with this first contender for hidden gems in Barcelona, given that it lies some two hours’ train ride away from the thrumming city, but humour us, as it’s well worth the day trip. For those longing to escape the snap-happy tourists, you’ll soon find that Montserrat (the Catalonia region’s very own rocky mountain range) is a welcome secluded spot. The only dilemma here will be whether to rack railway or cable car your way to the top. Once there, the knife-edge mountains slice skyward along the horizon before revealing glimpses of the Santa Maria de Montserrat monastery, that juts from the cliff face. This is a pilgrimage that draws worshippers from far and wide and promises unspoilt sweeping views of Catalunya and the chance for keen adventurers to continue the journey upwards, with sunrise-chasing hikes.
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This might not be the most hidden of gems in Barcelona, as the famous grounds of Spotify Camp Nou have acted as a beating heart of the city for decades. But football fanatics and lovers of the beautiful game can still discover something Nou with the help of a knowledgeable sports journalist turned expert tour guide. Delve into everything from the shirt's colours to the team's motto ‘Mes Que Un Club’, as you explore the famous second temple of the city. Head pitch side and stand within touching distance of the turf that’s been home to some of the best athletes in the world. Immerse yourself in the club's rich culture, that goes well beyond the realm of just football, as it forms a foundation that’s deeply rooted in the city. No matter your level of football enthusiasm, the saying goes that you’ll enter intrigued and likely leave a fan. This is something our team of experts can help build into your personalised Barcelona itinerary, so reach out today to start planning your holiday and Spotify Camp Nou discovery.
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This next entry on the list of hidden gems in Barcelona is another one for the day trippers, and for those searching for something to wet their whistle. Just a short hour south of the city you’ll find the thriving wine growing Penedès region. Renowned for its bottles of sparkling wine (also known as Cava), this spot continually suns it up to produce some of the best growing grapes around. Oenophiles (or just lovers of fizz) can sip their way across this famous wine route, sampling predominantly white grapes (although there are equally flavoursome reds on offer) from wineries like the Cava Mestres family (who’ve been in the wine business since 1312) or the Cava Colomer that prides itself on being a family run business. Our experts can ensure you witness the warmth of the Mediterranean sun setting behind the peak-studded horizon, as you toast to a day well spent.
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Experience an off-grid Barcelona adventure with this pocket of serenity that’s carved into the side of Montjuïc Hill. You’d be forgiven for thinking that the Grecian inspired Grec Gardens and Amphitheatre have been standing tall for centuries but it’s relatively young, having only been constructed in the 1920s. However, it’s youth certainly hasn’t detracted from its age-old feel, something visitors can note year-round as the gardens and theatre remain open to the public. It’s the perfect picnicking location, hidden among the leafy surroundings, with sprawling parks and beautifully planted gardens. This outdoor theatre also regularly plays host to productions throughout the month of July. In celebration of the Grec Festival and all things theatre, dance music, circus performance and more - a must for those seeking to understand the Barcelonan culture.
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The swathes of natural beauty in Montjuïc continue in its park, where a botanical garden home to Mediterranean plants from different parts of the world grow bountifully. They benefit from the similar climate and offer a peaceful experience for all who walk its grounds. Vivid blooming flowers intertwine their way across the 14 hectares and unspoilt views of the Llobregat Delta surroundings. The aim of the park, which opened in 1999, has primarily been to conserve rare fauna and flora, with over a thousand species growing successfully. This back-to-nature experience is perfect for strolls and contemplation and isn’t to be missed.
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There’s no better way to round off a day's exploring than with lashings of tea and sweet treats to quell stomach rumblings and thirsts, especially when it’s hidden in the depths of the Gothic Quarter. Caelum Café offers all this and more, in the form of a delectable array of cakes, cookies and tarts. All have been lovingly baked by the nuns from convents and monasteries around Spain. There’s freshly baked cider cake hailing from Santa Inés of Seville, trayfuls of tea biscuits from the Convento Madre de Dios in Cáceres and rich truffles from the sisters of Valladolid. All washed down with warming cups of tea and coffee in the café's ancient stone-walled interior. It’s even home to the occasional live classical music concert, perfect for serenading your sweet tooth fix.
Want to experience Spain like a local? We can help you get under the country’s skin, from Green Spain’s mountains to the Balearic Islands’ sun-soaked coasts. Fear not about missing out on the country’s popular spots, as we can help source tickets to sites like the Alhambra (even when it’s sold out) and advise on the best times to avoid the crowds. Our in-country Concierges can provide tried and tested tips, from secret eateries in Seville to pointing you towards Catalonia’s oldest lighthouse. When it’s time to hit the hay, we’re constantly on the lookout for properties with the best locations, restaurants and ways to relax.
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