American tourism up in Barcelona

The global crisis continues to dominate our plans, but the latest statistics from Barcelona Tourism show that Americans are among the most likely to travel to the Ciutat comtal (City of the Counts). American visitors to Barcelona are now the fourth most populous group, behind the neighboring neighboring European countries.  So come along and see what the city has to offer. But there is so much to offer in Barcelona that many visitors only ever scratch the surface!

Contact The Spanish Touch to design your custom private tour of Barcelona and we'll make sure you have an unforgettable time and treat you to a truly authentic Barcelona experience.

The Hospital of Sant Pau reopens its doors

The Hospital of Sant Pau, the largest Modernista complex in the world, today is reopening the complex. After months of restoration, the central buildings of Domenech i Montaner's stunning architectural design have been unveiled again. The most impressive feature is the newly renovated Clock Tower (Torre del Rellotge), which was designed to be a central feature of the complex. The Hospital complex is a series of beautiful, Modernista buildings which are connected via underground hallways and passages, offering the sensation of being in a quiet village rather than a functioning hospital. Originally built in the beginning of the 15th century, the hospital's makeover was completed in the early part of the twentieth century, and has been under renovation since February of 2011.

For more information or to plan your private guided tour of Spain, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

Off Road Adventures in Barcelona

Many people relate Barcelona with it's beaches, which is understandable given its location on the Mediterranean coast. But as we've mentioned before, this city is surrounded on the other side by coastal foothills which provide ample opportunity for anyone looking for a getaway from the city without having to change hotels. Ideas such as hiking in Collserola or horseback riding in Montseny are just a couple of possibilities.

Today I want to give you another choice: take a quad ride through the Montnegre National Park. In addition to the fun of the ride, you will have access to some spectacular mountain trails and at the top, a breathtaking view over the Mediterranean. Given the temperate climate of the region, this is an activity that can be done all year long, so don't let the approaching winter hold you back!

For more information, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

Visiting wineries with The Spanish Touch

One of the reasons visiting a winery with The Spanish Touch is such a unique experience is our relationship with the wineries themselves. We bring people to the wineries where they can talk to the winemaker or sommelier, someone directly involved in the process who can answer your questions. Last week Paula and David Klein experienced this service firsthand.

Between sampling new wines and learning about the newest trends in Penedes, we stopped for lunch and asked some interesting questions of the winemakers and discovered the fascinating evolution of the wine world in Catalunya.

For more information or to plan a private wine tour in Barcelona, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

A Day Making Wine with The Spanish Touch

At The Spanish Touch we are always looking for ways to make your experience more personal, unique and especially more unforgettable. This year's January and February Truffle Tours feature an optional day of learning to blend your own wines at a local winery! We've decided to add this exciting new option this year in addition to the chance to go on the hunt for truffles and enjoy some of the finest in local Spanish culture and cuisine. 

For  more information or for help planning your private Spanish tour, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.  

Truffle Tour - Wine and Truffles in Spain with The Spanish Touch

The Spanish Touch is offering the chance to get your hands dirty, as we head into the hills with a local truffle farmer, and also get the chance to make your own wine at one of the region's wineries! Enjoy this comprehensive tour complete with local guides, folklore and heritage, as well as a chance to reap the benefits of the season with the fruits of the harvest and the fabulous Spanish cuisine.

For more information or to sign up for this unique opportunity, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.