The region of Catalonia (also called Catalunya or Cataluña) is a place unlike any in the world. Flanked by the Pyrenees Mountains on the north and bathed by the Mediterranean Sea on the east, Catalonia stubbornly maintains a strong and independent identity with a unique culture and language all its own.

With six million inhabitants, it is the second most populated region in Spain, after Andalucia. At various times a possession of the Romans, Goths, Moors, Spanish and French, the Catalan province was granted limited autonomy by the Spanish government after the death of Francisco Franco.

Catalonian citizens are now permitted to elect the members of the Generalitat, Catalonia's historical legislative and executive governing body. Perhaps because of the schizophrenic influences and the long fight for autonomy, Catalonians are known for their independent spirit and cultural pride.

Despite Catalonia's small size (only 32,000 km), visitors will find amazing diversity, from miles of sea coast to the Pyrenean summits, from the historical castles dotting the ancient medieval border to the modern pleasures of the big cities.

The most exciting Catalonian city is no doubt Barcelona, the capital city and one of the most vibrant and colorful European cities. Tourists flock to the city to stroll Las Ramblas or the Gothic Quarter, or to see the work of incomparable modernist architect Antonio Gaudi, whose buildings have been designated as sites in the World Heritage List.

Other than Barcelona, the Montserrat monastery is Catalonia's main draw, perched on one of the most unusual rock formations in Spain. Legend has it that this is the spot where Parsifal discovered the Holy Grail, and that a carving of the Virgin by St. Luke turned up here and could not be moved.

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There are hundreds of great Hotels all over Catalonia to choose from, some of our favorites include the The Convent A restored 17th-century convent , in the beautiful coastal town of Begur. The hotel once belonged to the Minimos religious order, and each room is unique. They have been carefully restored, keeping their original features. Hotel Convent has beautiful panoramic views of the sea and the Baix Empordà.

Another stunning hotel is the Marvel Vielha . This modern, mountain lodge-style hotel is set in the heart of the Arán Valley – a unique landscape of wooded hills set in the Spanish Pyrenees, right on the French border. After a day enjoying the many outdoor activities available in the local area, you can return to the Marvel Vielha for a relaxing session in the spa or heated outdoor swimming pool. Then, in the evenings, you can head to the restaurant to try the local cuisine on offer. In addition, ski facilities are available during the winter season.

The popular Hotel Costabella is located on the edge of Girona city centre, near the Devesa Park. It offers an outdoor swimming pool, free Wi-Fi access and free public parking. The hotel is near the A7 motorway. It has good access to Girona Airport, 12km away. The historic city centre is a short walk away


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