Barcelona Marathon

This coming Sunday, March 7, a record number of people will set out through the streets of Barcelona to complete the 26-mile Barcelona Marathon. More than 12,000 runners have registered for the event, which will start and end at the Plaza Espanya at the foot of Montjuic mountain. The practical effect of this annual event is that many of the primary and secondary roads along the route will be shut off to traffic as the participants make their way through various parts of the city, passing sites such as Sagrada Familia, La Pedrera, The Cathedral, and even heading down Las Ramblas.

However, aside from the traffic problems, it will be a great day to be in the city. Event organizers have set up a number of "Animation points" along the way with events celebtrations for spectators and visitors to the city alike. Concerts and interactive events range from a Brazilian percussion bands to Columbian folk dancing to gastronomic samplings (of everything from escargot to local chocolate makers). In all there are 39 events throughout the city in celebration of the multicultural spirit of the city and the race.

For more information about events and custom tours in Barcelona, please contact The Spanish Touch.

Barcelona Restaurant Week

Following in the footsteps of cities like San Fransisco, New York, London and Madrid, Barcelona has introduced its first ever Restaurant Week 2010. From Saturday February 20 through this Sunday February 28, more than 30 of Barcelona's finest restaurants have opened their doors and their hearts, offering a set menu for 25 euros (including a 1 euro donation to the Fundacion del Corazon (Heart Foundation). The success of this week has been overwhelming, with many people taking the opportunity to visit some of the city's best restaurants such as Llucanes, Gresca, Hoffman and Els Pescadors. Restaurants offering everything from classic fish dishes to Catalan fusion cuisine with Adria disciples to Japanese to an Argentinean Steak house, the selection of establishments is a good cross-section of Barcelona's offerings.

Unfortunately, heading into the final weekend if you don't have a reservation already, better luck next time. However, given the success of its first edition, we at The Spanish Touch are certain that this will become an annual event. In the meantime, when in Spain, do not miss the opportunity to sample the wonderful cuisine, rich and so intimately a part of the country and its people.

If you have any questions or would like help in choosing restaurants during your visit, drop us a line and we'll be glad to help.