The Pickett's Barcelona experience - Daring Montserrat

Originally the visit to Montserrat mountain was scheduled for Monday, as Sunday promised to be a packed day as it also marked the day of the annual march from Barcelona to Montserrat, where 3000 hikers arrived at the monastery early in the morning having walked the 60km from Barcelona all during the previous evening and night. However, the weather forecast called for rain on Monday, so we were able to make the change for Montserrat and hope that the overcast conditions would not result in a wet visit. And it did not. In fact, the sun even poked out to provide some of the privileged views that Montserrat mountain offers (even Tibidabo in the distance.)


Given the extremely high level of traffic between the hikers and their families and the usual Sunday traffic, we decided to visit the monastery before heading down to the Sagrada Cova. It proved an excellent decision as we visited the gardens of liberty and learned about the more than 1200 years of history as the cultural and spiritual center of Catalonia. After listening to L'escolania boys choir and stopping for a quick sandwich, it was off on the mile long round trip walk down to the holy cave, passing along the statues representing the mysteries of the Rosary.

After returning to Barcelona we said goodbye at the hotel and until tomorrow for a visit to the Barcelona Moderniste!

For more information about our private guided tours in Spain, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

In front of the house where Joan Miro was born in Barcelona

BlackBerry de movistar, allí donde estés está tu oficin@

The Pickett's Barcelona Experience - Barcelona City

The Pickett's adventure in Spain arrived an hour after arrival when we met in the lobby of Terminal 1 in Barcelona. Walt and Jackie had a bit of a surprise when their airplane stopped in the middle of the tarmac and unloaded from both ends, which is unfortunate if you happen to be sitting in the middle of the plane. But once on the ground it was time to get started! Our first stop was their hotel in the fashionable new district of the Forum to drop off the luggage. Then back to the city and a half day walking visit to the city.

First stop in our visit was the Cathedral. As it was still early in the day we had the cathedral more open than it would have been later in the day, and they were able to take in the details of the church, from the fascinating woodwork of the choir loft to the Tombs of Ramon Berenguer and his wife to the 15th century Baptismal font. Upon leaving the Cathedral we headed down away from the gathering crowds of tourists that were forming along Carrer del Bisbe and took in the Plaza Sant Felip Neri, the Jewish Call and a walk along the Carrer Ferran. A quick stop for a late breakfast and we were back on the street, exploring the old streets of Europe's best kept Gothic Quarter, discovering what happens when 2000 years of history accumulates in a condensed space. After a couple of hours walking through the streets we called it a day, stopping for a quick tapas before dropping them off at the hotel to relax and get ready for their week of exploring.

For more information on planning your own private guided tours in Barcelona and Spain, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

On a perfect fall day in Cadaques

BlackBerry de movistar, allí donde estés está tu oficin@

Day Trips from Madrid

If you've visited our website recently you've seen that we're undergoing some major modifications. We hope to have it completed soon, and in the meantime here you have some ideas for things The Spanish Touch can arrange for you to do around Madrid on your next visit to Spain!


A visit to Segovia to see the Roman Aqueduct
A visit to Toledo, walled city of legends
A visit to El Escorial, monastery and resting place of the kings
A visit to Aranjuez to see the Royal Castle
A visit to Avila to see the walls of Avila
A visit to the House where Cervantes was Born
A visit to the local wineries of the Wines of Madrid



There's a huge list of possibilities for people who have already "done" the city, and if you're looking for a great way to get in touch with Spanish culture, an escape from the city might be exactly what you are looking for!!

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

Advanced Notice: Truffle Tour 2012

School´s back in session, summer is winding down and people are alraedy beginning to look towards their next chance to get away. For many, that chance will have to wait until the winter. Luckily, The Spanish Touch has the answer to your wintertime blues - Truffle Tours are coming back! From December 15 through March the truffle season in northern Spain is in full swing, and The Spanish Touch wants to help you be a part of it.

This year we are expanding our offer to make it easier for you to get the chance to participate. Tours into truffle country, truffle hunting with a local farmer, visits to the truffle market and lessons in cooking with truffles are just some of the things we are offering this year. Tours will be run during the season from 3 days (leaving Barcelona on Friday morning and returning Sunday evening) for those who have a limited amount of free time to a full week experience for those people who want the full Spanish truffle experience!

Stay tuned for more information regarding 2012 truffle tours or contact The Spanish Touch directly at 888-480-0013 to plan your private guided visit to Spain.  

Al-Andalus: Luxury Train Experience in Southern Spain

Spain's famous trains are coming back in a big way! We have already spoken about several of them, such as the Tren de la Fresa day trips from Madrid or the super luxury Transcantabrico running along the north coast. Starting in 2012 another legendary train from the past will be returning to provide guests with a privileged vantage point from which to discover one of Spain's most storied regions: Andalusia.

The Al-Andalus Train was built in the late twenties and this "Palace on rails"  has been expertly restored to its most luxurious prime. The train offers a six-day five-night tour of southern Spain for those looking for the best of everything! Routes will begin in May 2012.

For more information about planning a private guided trip in Spain, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

Cadiz - One of Europe's oldest cities

It's not the first name that rolls of the tongue when you think of Spain. It's not even the first when you limit your search to Andalusia. But well before the Romans, Visigoths, Moors and Catholic monarchs entered into the picture, Cadiz was there. It was an important port for the Phoenicians more than 3000 years ago.

Despite being a small city, Cadiz guards a plethora of possibilities for those looking to discover more about Spain, it's history and its people. As one of the prime bases for the New World's shipping routes, the city's heritage is unique. It's sun-drenched streets, plazas and panoramas offer visitors a chance to get in touch with the Spanish culture and roots.

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

Some photos from the Festa de la Fil.loxera

Last night in Sant Sadurni D'anoia was the big celebration in the week long Town Fair: The Festa de la Fil.loxera, which we mentioned last month here. Below are some pictures of the celebration, which was in full swing. After a lovely dinner of tapas (with homemade gazpacho and the ubiquitous pa amb tomaquet), we were off into the midst of a sea of yellow - the color of choice for the participants and onlookers alike. Our group was smack in the middle of the action, walking down the streets next to the giant bug parade, and front row center in the plaza. Here a few pictures to give you an idea of the celebration, which culminated in the Church Square packed with people and including a band playing traditional music, the drummers and, naturally, the phylloxera themselves! 

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

The "Other" side of the Costa del Sol - Axarquia

One of the many advantages of having lived close to Malaga was the chance to visit some of the smaller towns and villages that are off the beaten path. When anyone mentions Costa Del Sol, most people immediately think of the western side, with Marbella, Torremolinos, etc. However, I think of the east, the Axarquia, the region I lived for several years. Towns like Colomar, Frigiliana, Alcuacin and Torrox. It represents the area between the capital city of Malaga and Granada.

The name of the region comes from the Arab for "The East", and it represents a much less "touristy" and developed side of Spain, but no less intriguing. From the white village of Frigiliana to the Caves of Nerja and Treasure Caves in Rincon de la Victoria, Phoenicean settlements and Moorish castles dot the landscape filled with olive groves and rolling hills.

For more information about this fascinating region, or to plan a visit on your net trip to Spain, contact us at The Spanish Touch.

Happy Labor Day from The Spanish Touch

Here at The Spanish Touch we want to take this opportunity to wish you all a safe and happy Labor Day! The traditional end-of-summer holiday brings us closer to autumn, and a whole new set of possibilities for visiting Spain. This year we are offering a number of off-the-beaten path tours that combine the best of the region with local festivals and harvest to offer our guests the best of Spain!

For more information check our website at The Spanish Touch or give us a call at 888-480-0013.

A day at the beach

In the summertime sometimes the best thing is a great day at the beach. Sitting on the edge of the water taking in the sun, playing volleyball or with friends, sitting at the chiringuito enjoying a cold beverage, swimming or taking a boat ride. All along the Mediterranean coast, Spain's got beaches for everyone, from wide sandy stretches to hidden coves. But the best part is that for those people who will be visiting from September to November, more often than not the beach is still a great option for anyone looking to join the Spanish beach rhythm.

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

New Blog Section: My favorite recipes

I'm not a chef, but I am very pleased to introduce a new section of our blog for you: my favorite recipes! What do you think? Some of the recipes that we'll be sharing are family recipes that have been passed down through generations, others form a part of the food culture of Spain, and specifically the Catalan culture. I hope you get the chance to try some of the recipes at home and be sure to let us know what you think!

"Festa de la Verema" in Alella, the annual wine festival

The Harvest Festival of Alella (La Festa de la Verema d'Alella) is a wonderful example of how local festivals are tied to a wine tradition that is deeply rooted. Alella is one of the smallest DOs in Spain, but that doesn't mean that the harvest celebration will be any less exciting. In fact, it's quite the opposite. The festival is one of the most anticipated by the people who live in Alella and the surrounding towns.  Even better, because it is so close to Barcelona a lot of pepole will take the thirty minute drive out to enjoy the wine, good food, the fiesta atmosphere and the great weather that can be expected this time of the year.

This is the 37th Harvest Festival and it will take place from September 9-11. Three intense days! And during  the month of November there is the follow up celebration of gastronomy based on the wines of Alella, but more on that later.

Here's a brief summary of some of the activities that you can do during the Harvest Festival:

Friday September 9 :
18:00 - 23:00: Craft fair
19:00: Official opening of the festival
20:00 - 23:00: Gastronomy fair. Tastings of the wines and cavas of the region and local food specialities
23:00: Correfoc with the diables del Vi d'Alella
24:00 till ... : Open ball with orchestra

Saturday September 10:
09:00 - 23:00: Craft fair
09:15: Visit to Parxet winery
09:30: Visit to Joaquim Batlle winery
10:30: Visit to Bouquet d'Alella winery
12:30 - 14:00: Tapas and Wine.
18:00: Presentation of the Wines of Alella
20:00 - 23:00: Gastronomy fair. Tastings of the wines and cavas of the region and local food specialities
23:30 till ... : Open ball with orchestra

Diumenge 11 de setembre:
09:00 - 23:00: Craft fair
09:00: II Harvest Run
09:00: Botifarrada popular
09:00: Walking Tour "Ruta Paisatgística per les vinyes de la Vall de Rials"
09:00: Visit to Altrabanda and Can Roda wineries
09:15: Visit to Alta Alella or Parxet winery
10:00: Visit to Alella Vinícola winery
10:00: Parade of gegants
10:15: Visit to Roura winery
12:00: Cercavila (town parade) of gegants, capgrossos, grallers and timbalers d'Alella
12:30 - 14:00: Tapas and wine.
17:30: Sardanes (traditional dance)
20:00 - 23:00: Gastronomy fair. Tastings of the wines and cavas of the region and local food specialities
22:00 till ... : Havaneres (Traditional fishermen's songs)

If one of the visits to the wineries catches your eye, act quickly as there is limited availability. Contact The Spanish Touch to make a reservation or ask for more information.  If you are not in the area during the festival, The Spanish Touch can arrange visits to the wineries and walking routes throughout the year so that you can see a more intimate side of Spanish wines.

Ronda's Pedro Romero Festival - Tradition on display

Ronda is a uniquely Spanish town, famous for its inspiring landscape, cultural heritage and its bullring, the very first in Spain. And for the first week of September, Ronda hosts the only Feria De Ronda, the Town Fair dedicated to a bullfighter, the 18th-century legend  Pedro Romero. As you would expect in a town with such a deeply-rooted tradition, the bullring is one of the main stages for the festival, and the highlight of the festival is the Corrida Goyesca, a tradition which began in 1954 to celebrate the bicentennial of Pedro Romero's birth. The end of the summer holidays doesn't necessarily mean the end of the party, so come to Ronda and see why people like Hemmingway and Orson Welles were charmed by the city and its inhabitants.

For information on designing your own private guided tour in Spain, contact The Spanish Touch at 88-480-0013.

Jewish Culture Week in Toledo

The walled city of Toledo has inspired many with its majestic Cathedral, winding streets and picturesque location. But it is also known as the city of three cultures: Christian, Muslim and Jewish people lived together for centuries in this city, and any visit to Toledo is incomplete with a visit to the Synagogues (Santa Maria La Blanca and El Transito), Mosque (del Cristo de la Luz). This week the XII annual European Jewish Cultural festival is taking place, and what better place to celebrate than Toledo, with the Semana Sefardi de Toledo (Sephardic Week of Toledo).

From August 29 Through September 5, Toledo's Sephardic history and culture will be the center of attention, with seminars, guided visits, craftshows, and concerts! Take this opportunity to visit and learn more about the fascinating heritage and legacy that the Jewish population left in Toledo!

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

Festa Major = Major fun this week in Vilafranca del Penedes

Two weeks ago was the Festa Major de Gracia. Last week it was the Festa Major de Sants. This week we head out of the city of Barcelona to the capital of the Penedes region to find our Festa Major: Vilafranca del Penedes offers a great setting for a great time for all! Wander the medieval streets  that wind and find hidden treasures (the occasional Modernista  building sneaks up on the unwary), decked out in full celebratory gear. Enjoy the parades, the music and the general fetivies less than an hour from Barcelona! Now through Friday take the opportunity to get out and celebrate with the locals, and while you're there, don't forget to visit the wineries of the region!

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

Gardens of Granada September 2011

Gardens of Granada is a 3 day experience which will be taking place in September (6^th-8^th) in one of the most beautiful cities in all of Spain: Granada! This package, put together by Lucy at Go Granada!, offers a unique way to discover the city. Visit 7 very different gardens and discover the curious and  delightful stories behind the secret carmens (enclosed gardens), learn about the fascinating history of the Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens, hear interesting fables about life in bygone times and explore the historic center.  Optional extras include a tapas tour, a flamenco show, Arab baths with massage, a walking tour and an accompanied shopping trip.

For more information on your private guided tour in Spain, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

Changing our website and some other news!

We are currently updating our website and changing its appearance a little. In the next few days, you will find more detailed information about our wine and food tours, cultural tours, offers and some news we want to share with you. We will keep you informed!

Please, let us know if you like our new website, your opinion is very important to us!

La Festa de La fil.loxera - A cava celebration of triumph

Every year in the beginning of September the tiny town of Sant Sadurni D'Anoia lights up. In part this is due to the nonstop action of the ongoing harvest, bringing in the famous "trinity" of grapes to be used for this year's Cava reserves, Macabeo, Xarel.lo and Perellada. But from September 6 through the 8th, the town is in full celebration with the Festa de la Fil.loxera. The festival, which was begun in 1982, celebrates the region's triumph over the phylloxera plague that devastated most of Europe at the end of the 19th century.

The festival is a demonstration of, and tribute to the courage and spirit of the farmers and winemakers who refused to give up and whose determination made Sant Sadurni what it is today: The capital of Spain's sparkling wine.

Come join the celebration with live music, dancing, parades and, naturally, cava!! For more information or for help planning your private guided tour in Spain, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

Festes de Gràcia in Barcelona

Poster 2011

What was once a town close to the city of Barcelona today is one of the most emblematic and bohemian neighborhoods of the city. That's why the annual festes celebrated are becoming more and more renown throughout the world. This year the festes began on Monday the 15th and will continue in full swing through Sunday the 21st.

Streets elaborately decorated, concerts and live performances, bars and terraces in the open air, craft fairs where local products are bought and sold, competitions, raffles, ... both day and night there are activities for everyone from the smallest visitors on up. This is a party that you don't want to miss!

Summer nights at La Pedrera (Casa Milà), Barcelona

In one of Barcelona's most emblematic modernista buildings, commonly referred to as "La Pedrera", the hot August nights transform into a magical and charming respite where you can enjoy a night of local jazz music as well as visiting the "L'espai Gaudí", located on the buildings first floor. If your time in Barcelona is tight during the day, this is a great way to take advantage of the night to make the most of  your visit.

For more information about different activities both in the city itself and in the surrounding area during the dog days of summer, contact The Spanish Touch.

Modernista Routes along the Maresme, Barcelona

Can Garí, Argentona (Barcelona)

The region of the Maresme is just 30 minutes north of Barcelona. Towns like Mataró, Argentona, Alella, among others, offer a piece of the Modernista route that goes beyond what you see in the city of Barcelona.

Here's a pdf link for a more information about this route, or contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

A different view, a different history: the shelters of Barcelona during the Civil War

During the Spanish Civil War, underground bomb shelters were built throughout Spain. In Barcelona alone there were more than 1000 constructed. One of these shelters, named "Refugi 307", features an impressive track of more than 200 meters of tunnels. This was a place where 2000 citizens could go during the constant bombings, and it was considered one of the safest in the city. Even so, the bombs damaged the tunnel and collapsed a part of it. Currently it is being restored but for the curious visitor it offers a chance to see a different side of the city's history, including the areas where you could find the nurse station, the toolshed, bathrooms, etc.

For more information of to plan your own private guided tour in Spain, contact The Spanish Touch.

Sant Pau Hospital, the largest Modernista complex in Europe

The Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau (more commonly referred to as Sant Pau) is a major part on the Modernista Route in Barcelona. The hospital is actually the most important and largest complex of modernista buildings in Europe. Currently visitors have limited access to the complex due to the rehabilitation of the buildings that is being carried out, but even so in July daily guided visits were established so that people can still see the buildings, not only from the outside, but also the tunnels of the historic ocmplex, that served to connect the various medical buildings without having to go outside). The buildings, most of which no longer function as an active part of the hospital itself, represent one of the crowing acheivements of the architect Lluis Domenech i Montaner, one of modernisme's most recognized figures.

We at The Spanish Touch can highly recommend that, if you haven't already done it, you sign up for a guided visit to discover the secrets of this jewel of modernisme in Barcelona. Here are a few photos to give you an idea of what's in store.

For more information, visit:
http://thespanishtouch.com/daytours_barcelona_modernista.htm

La Palma Walking Festival - a different kind of summer festival

festivaldesenderismo on livestream.com. Broadcast Live Free

Yesterday we talked about the Spanish summer fairs, and today we want to present a different way to experience the local culture, with the La Palma Walking Festival in the beautiful Canary Islands. August 19 through the 21st will see the island of La Palma host trekkers from around the globe who want to explore this incredible island for the third year in a row. The festival will provide nature lovers and hikers the chance to get to know the culture, landscape and scenery of one of Spain's most beautiful islands.

Fore more information on how to plan your private guided tour in Spain, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

August Town Fairs in Spain - a local experience

August is the hottest month of the year. And that presents problems for many people when it comes time to travel. But in Spain, it represents one of the best months to explore the Ferias (town fairs), from the big festivals such as the Malaga Summer Feria and the Aste Nagusia in Bilbao to small village fairs like the Jimera de Libar Fair, these fairs are a fantastic way to get to see and experience local culture.

For more information about the summer festivals or to plan your next private guided tour in Spain, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

Bordeaux Wine Experience Harvest Tour

The Spanish Touch is working with the Bordeaux Wine Experience to make your 2011 harvest wine tour an unforgettable experience!

Join the Bordeaux Wine Experience from September 26 - October 1, 2011 for a 6/day, 5 night wine tour. This all-inclusive tour features visits to wineries such as Haut Brion, Pichon Baron and even Chateau Yquem, meals in a Bordeaux Chateau and a two michelin star restaurant, and a small group size guaranteeing personalized attention at every turn. 


For more information about the itinerary and prices contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

It's almost time for Harvest tours again!

As we enter the sweltering heat of August and are confronted with an all-too-quickly-approaching end of summer, I cannot help but think of the upcoming harvest, and the innumerable festivals, local town fairs and exquisite winery visits that this time of year offers. So keep your eyes peeled as we will be starting a rundown of our personal favorites in this space in the coming days!

For more information regarding private tours in Spain, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

Atlantic Botanical Garden of Gijon - step away from the city and into a world of green

Gijón is one of those tucked away places that visitors to Spain can all too easily overlook. Located along the northern coastal province of Asturias, the city is known as the capital of the Costa Verde in Spain. And one of the must-see sights for anyone looking to escape from your normal city sightseeing routine is a visit to the Atlantic Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanico Atlantico) located less than 2 miles from the city center. The garden is home to over 30,000 plants and offers the city-weary visitors a chance to discover more about the natural life in northwest Spain. It is open from 10:00 to 9:00 during the summer and offers a range of activities to keep the whole family happy.

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

A day in the Alpujarra (Granada)

The Alpuharra (or Las Alpujarras) is a part of Andalusia that includes a part of the provinces of Granada and Almería, just on the southern face of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Our route begins in Lanjarón, entranceway to the region. Lanjarón is known for its spa and the medicinal properties of its waters. After a short visit to the town and the Parroquia de la Encarnación, we will visit Lanjarón Castle, an Arab building from the 12th and 13th centuries. From there you can admire the beauty and tranquility of the landscape.

From Lanjarón we continue on to El Paraje de Tello. From here there are various walking routes that you can enjoy: The carril de la sierra takes you to the foot of Cerro del Caballo, one of the highest peaks of the Sierra Nevada, where the carril de la Chaparra will lead you to the Tajo Expósito, a spectacular gorge. Other possible routes include visiting the Tajo de la Cruz, where it is said that the witches of the region would congregate, or the Huerta de las Monjas, a recreational area along the banks of the Lanjarón River.

Contact The Spanish Touch for more information or for help planning your private guided tour in Spain.

Barcelona through the Back Streets - Exploring the city

There are any number of ways to discover Barcelona. Today we took a less traditional route through the city, discovering some of the city's most interesting out of the way places as we worked our way through 3 different areas of the city.

First up was Gracia, where we took in the plazas and streets that make this area such a unique place, all the while working under a sky that couldn't decide whether or not to rain. We discussed the old town of Gracia, and how the changes over the last hundred years have shaped the town, and how it has resisted the changes. It's great to see people enjoying the old world charms then turning the corner to see a Moderniste masterpiece (especially when one of the people with you is an architect, thanks Batia!).

We followed up with a walk through the winding streets of the Ribera, visiting the old chapels, learning about the curious street names and finally stopping for a delectable tapas lunch (the cheese plate was spectacular). After lunch we continued through the streets of the Born district, exploring history and modern culture living side by side, before finishing with a walk through the old city.

For more information about the Barcelona through the Back Streets, or to plan your own private guided tour through Spain, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

Valencia's Planetarium - The city of Arts and Science at night

Continuing a theme on ways to best enjoy your summer evenings throughout Spain, tonight and every Thursday in July and August in Valencia we bring you a new twist on the night skies. At the Hemisferic, which forms a part of Santiago Calatrava's spectacular City of Arts and Sciences, visitors to Spain's third largest city can stargaze whilst learning about the various mythological aspects of the stars according to Spanish tradition. Starting at 9:00 tonight and 10:00pm in August, enjoy a night of stars to add to your Spanish experience!

For more information on how you can have your own private guided tour in Spain, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

Alquezar - a hidden gem in wine country

By now most people have heard of the Somontano wine region, with wineries such as Enate, Laus and Vinas del Vero spearheading a revolution of wonderful wines. The region is tucked into a corner of Aragon often overlooked, and due to the relative difficulty in getting there the region tends to attract mostly wine aficionados or mountain lovers (it is located less than an hour's drive from the Pyrenees).

However, the region is filled with historical and cultural treasures, and today I would like to focus on the ancient city of Alquezar. The town itself as we see it, picturesque and tucked away in between the hills and on an outcropping in the Rio Vero park, is a flashback. Walk its winding streets, much the same as they were 1000 years ago. Founded by the Arab rulers in the 9th century, Alquezar still maintains some archeological remains from that period. You can still see the castle where history tells us 2 sisters were martyred in 851 AD for refusing to renounce their faith. You can also see the Albarrana Tower (1064) and the church, rebuilt over the original Romanic church in the beginning of the 16th century.

Enjoy a drink in the square overlooking the valley, in a town that reminds us that Somontano has more than just wine!

Contact The Spanish Touch for more information regarding tours to the Somontano wine region and Alquezar.

Enrique Granados - Spain's Composer/pianist

Today we celebrate the birthday of Enrique (Enric) Granados, one of Spain's most influential and famous composers. Born in Lleida on July 27, 1867, Granados gained fame and reputation as a virtuose piano player in Barcelona. His most famous piece is the short opera called the Goyescas, based on the paintings of Francisco de Goya. Granados is considered the best embodiment of Spanish romantic music and his works had a profound impact on another great musician in Barcelona, Pau Casals.

Contact The Spanish Touch for more information regarding how you can experience your own private guided tour in Spain at 888-480-0013.

The Walls of Avila...a nighttime visit!

We've spoken recently of ways to keep cool in the hot summer months in Spain. And today we bring you to the center of Spain. The walls of Avila are one of the most endearing and memorable features of Spain. A visit to Avila is never complete without visiting these 1tth-century stone fortifications. And from now until September 30th you can visit them at night, an even more special and romantic visit which takes you away from the heat of the late summer days. Take the visit betwee 10:00-11:30pm and you will get more than just a great picture. Through dramatic reenactments you will get to know the secrets and legends of the city!

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

Casa Batllo - discover Gaudi with moonlight and jazz

The Casa Batlló, one of Antoni Gaudi's most famous works along the Passeig de Gracia in Barcelona, is offering a special treat for those looking for a different way to spend your evening. The building is opening its doors for jazz by candle and moonlight  every Wednesday to Sunday on the terrace of the Planta Noble.

Imagine spending your evening  in one of Barcelona's truly legendary buildings and a glass of cava and an aperetif as you soak up the music and the experience!

For more information about planning your private guided visit in Spain, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

Pimientos de Padron - a tapas staple

Pimientos de Padron are a bit misleading. When most Americans see the small peppers they immediately think of various types of hot peppers which bear a striking similarity. However, these peppers are not necessarily hot. In fact, part of what makes eating them such an adventure is that you're never sure if you're going to be the one who gets the hot one! Found in almost every tapas bar in Spain, pimientos de padron arrived in Spain in the 16th century via missionaries coming back from the new world. The best and most traditional pimientos are grown in Galicia.

For information on tapas or for help creating your ideal itinerary for a guided tour in Spain, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

Tudela - getting off the main road

Sometimes some of the most interesting places are not on the main path. Tudela is a 9th century town that combines some spectacular elements of the Islamic, Jewish and Christian cultures that shaped the cultural and historical heritage of the region. From the 12th century Cathedral to the delightful cuisine of the Ribera region to the Vias Verdes (green trails) along the bank of the Ebro River, step off the main road and into a Spain that is waiting to be discovered!

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

Horseback riding close to Barcelona

One way to beat the summer heat in Barcelona is to take a day off and visit one of the national parks in the area like Montseny or Montnegre i el Corredor. And for those looking for a different way of exploring, why not take a  ride through the the tree-lined paths and along the streams and waterfalls, and discover another side of of the Spanish landscape!
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For more information or for help planning your private guided tour in Spain, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

Antequera by the Light of the Moon - a different idea for Andalusian summer nights

Summer tourism has always been a problem in Andalusia. With temperatures that frequently reach the "very uncomfortable" level just to be outside, walking around the old city tends to be relegated to other months. But what if the visit was done in the refreshing summer night air, under the stars? This summer, Antequera is offering its "Antequera, Luz de Luna" for those who want to get a different perspective on the region.

With guided visits departing nightly via microbus and walking tours through the old city, and even the option of visiting El Torcal National Park by the evening light, it's an ideal way to get around that summer heat and still maximize your time in Spain.

For more information on your own private guided tour in Spain, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

Great video link of La Pedrera in Barcelona

Turisme a la teva ciutat: La Pedrera from Barcelona Cultura on Vimeo.


La Pedrera, Antoni Gaudi's civic masterpiece on the Passeig de Gracia in Barcelona, is one of the most recognizable buildings in the whole city. Everything about it, from the wavy facade to the wrought-iron balcony railings to the majestic rooftop, shines as a model of what modernisme in Barcelona represents.

For more information or to include a visit to La Pedrera on your private guided visit to Barcelona, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

A glass of wine to say goodbye

The final day of Paula and Lawrence's visit found us once more heading out of the city, this time south to the Penedes region for a half-day of wine discovery before heading over to the ship. On the way down we talked about Spanish wine, why it has a reputation for being the cheap little brother of it's bigger neighbor across the Pyrenees, and how that reputation has been a blessing and a curse. Upon arriving at the first winery, we were treated to Marta's wonderful explanation of wine, encompassing everything from the family history to the current state of the wine region and the plight of the region's farmers. Despite the previous night's storms, the land was still dry enough to get out and walk through the vineyards. We learned about the different grapes and even how to recognize them by their leaves (they were still green although the red moscat grapes were starting to turn, and both Paula and Lawrence found them quite tasty).




After enjoying a tasting  of the wines, served with fresh bread

on a sunny patio with Marta, we headed off to see (and taste) some hand-crafted cava. Ernest and Ricard were gracious hosts, and our guests were particularly enthralled with the machines that they (still) use to bottle each and every bottle of their artesanal product. A sampling to show the difference between various cavas and we headed back to get them to their ship. What a way to Spanish way to say goodbye, with wine and a glass of cava!

Thanks to both Paula and Lawrence for making my job easier, and hope their cruise goes as smoothly as their time in Spain!

For more information on planning your own private guided tour in Spain, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013.

Dali was there - and so were the crowds

On  Tuesday I once again met Paula and Lawrence at the hotel for a day up the coast. Things started well enough, but once on the highway we saw the sign that an accident had shut down the road an exit before ours. We decided to chance the highway anyway, as the back way looked to be filling up already and the accident looked to be under control. We finally arrived at Figueres to discover that all the traffic was arriving at the same time as we were. There was already a 2-hour line to get into the Dali Theater-Museum. Never fear, for the extremely helpful staff at the Figueres Tourist Office came up with our guided visit tickets just in time for the next group. A two-hour study of Dali followed, and even with the massive crowds of people it is something to behold.

Following a quick coffee we headed over to Girona where, as we walked up to the Cathedral through the cobblestone streets, we discussed the role of the city throughout the ages, and how important the rivers have always been. The Cathedral highlights included the tomb of Ermessenda and Ramon Berenguer II, and of course the treasury collection. As we walked back down through the winding streets of the Jewish Quarter, it was easy to understand why this city constantly ranks as one of Spain's top quality-of-life destinations.

On the drive back we talked about the richness of the volcanic region of La Garrotxa, and how the Masias of Catalunya have played a pivotal role throughout history.

For more information or for help designing your own private guided tour in Spain, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-840-0013.

Discussing wine with Marta at Mas Comtal

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On the Eiffel bridge in Girona

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The Evolution of a City - Barcelona with Paula and Lawrence

This morning I picked up Paula and Lawrence at the hotel and off we headed to the most famous market in Spain: La boqueria. Getting there first thing in the morning means that you can still savor the smells and sights of the market before it gets crowded around midday. And as today was shaping up to be a hot one, it was nice to be able to wander freely through the stalls, pointing out local produce and hams, spices and commenting on the history and role of markets in Spain.

A visit to the world of modernisme followed, with the obligatory visit to the Sagrada Familia (lines of more than an hour outside, luckily we had our tickets already!). As an engineer, Lawrence was particularly interested in Gaudi's use of geometry and figures in his building techniques. It was nice to be able to see the front doors with te Pare Nostre imprinted on it. The progression of the building can be slow sometimes, but sometimes it feels like it's making leaps and bounds!

A quick stop for lunch along the majestic Passeig de Gracia and we were once more into modernisme, this time taking in La Pedrera and the Block of Discord. It is always interesting to see what people take from these architectural gems, and both Paula and Lawrence were more than willing to explain what they liked more and less about the various  buildings. As the day winded down, we talked about the evolution of Barcelona from a Roman town up through the 21st century. A visit to Montjuic with a view of the city from the Mayor's Lookout brought an end to a lively, entertaining and informative day. Tomorrow Figueres and Girona await!

For more information or to help

Another reason to love tapas

Going out for tapas. Just saying it gets the taste buds excited. In the 21st century tapas have become ubiquitous, and even so you always have to be open for surprises. Tonight I took Paula and Lawrence out for tapas in the city. It was their first "tapas dinner" and we kept it to a reasonable number. 3 restaurants, three unique styles, 3 dining experiences all in one dinner. Even as someone who lives in Spain, I delight in finding new and interesting foods to sample. For example tonight we were treated to Botifarra de sepia (cuttlefish sausage) and calamar a la romana (battered squid) in its own ink. Other highlights included the breadfried eggplant and the delicious cheese dishes. Oh, and dessert was stellar as well. But the opportunities to sample new foods is part of what makes going out for tapas such a great and memorable experience.

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

Montserrat and a visit to the shops in Barcelona

There are times when a vacation can have it's none-too-pleasant moments. Losing luggage is one of those moments. And if that luggage contains all your cocktail and evening wear for a forthcoming cruise, it can make the situation a bit more tense. But luckily Barcelona is readily available and equipped to deal with almost every emergency.

A morning visit to Montserrat was just the stress-reliever the doctor ordered, as a beautiful, pleasantly hot morning in the cultural nerve center of Catalonia was a morning full of spectacular vistas, intriguing history and just enough exercise to make even lost luggage seem manageable.

In the afternoon we visited several stores to make sure that everyone was prepared for the cruise leaving the following morning. While not the ideal, relaxing afternoon that was originally planned, it is a relief to know that even cocktail dresses and evening wear is easy enough to find in the big city, and that even lost luggage cannot  spoil you vacation plans. The shops of Barcelona rose magnificently to the occasion, providing shoes, dresses and assorted other necessities to make sure that the vacation would not be ruined because of an airline malfunction.

On a busy day finding some peace at Montserrat

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An afternoon stroll through the Gothic Quarter

It was a sunny day, but not overbearingly hot as the Bezners walked through the streets of Barcelona yesterday. After a long flight and having finally checked in at the hotel, we started by grabbing a bite to eat. The tapas were exactly what was needed to get everyone ready. The gambas and pulpo were of particularly good note, but I take nothing away from the the tortilla de patatas, cheese or even the ever faithful pa amb tomàquet.

Feeling refreshed and ready to roll, we began our tour through the winding streets of Barcelona. In a city where everything has been built over and on top of things, it can be almost overwhelming sometimes to even know where to start. Do you look up at the stunning gargoyles? Or at the craftsmenship of the doorframes and balconies? Or do you take note of the scratches that are the accumulation of centuries of horse-driven carriages that brought life to the city?

The day ended with a visit to the cathedral (after purchasing scarves for the girls to cover bare shoulders), and  the cloister's geese gave us a noisy but cheerful farewell. Next up: Montserrat and Sagrada Familia!

Las Ramblas from the Columbus statue on a gorgeous summer day

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Happy Fourth of July from The Spanish Touch

From all of us at the Spanish Touch, have a happy and safe Fourth of July!

LuxGreco - Toledo at its most spectacular this July

This week begins the annual Luxgreco Festival, an audiovisual festival that will take place on july 8, 9, 16 and 17, recreating the journeys and life of Toledo's most famous adopted son, El Greco. At monuments like the Puerta de Bisagra, The San Juan de los Reyes Church and the Plaza de Zocodover, witness Toledo relive it's glory in a display of lights and music.

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

Annual Legends Festival this weekend in Penedes

History, legends and oral traditions are as much a part of Spain's culture and heritage as the lands and monuments that are found throughout it. This year, for the first time, the town of Sant Marti de Tous, in the Penedes wine region just south of Barcelona, is hosting a Legends Festival (Tous es Llegendes), where the visitor is welcome to meander the town discovering the secret nooks and crannies and the incredible stories that are everywhere. The festival is more than just about the town, as the legends incorporate the whole of Catalonia, from the witch of Girona to The White Lady of Andorra. From July 1-3 will see the town come alive with the generations of history and tradition opened up to the public for the first time.

For more information about this or other festivals, or to plan your private guided tour in Spain, contact The Spanish Touch at 888-480-0013 and we will be glad to help.