Ah, the joys of Spring!

This photo was taken one Spring from our back garden and drive. Just across our fence is the pine wood and the lovely meandering walk down to the town and the beach…

 

 

 

 

 

 

In Spring the weather is warm – warm enough to eat al fresco, the skies are blue and the surrounding countryside is very lush and very green.

It’s a wonderful time of year to explore the architecture, art and gastronomy of Catalunya with very little competition from mass tourism.

 

 

 

 

 

 

It may even be be swimmable – the photo here was also taken in April… along with the photos above.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You can hunt for wild asparagus in the woods next to Maremar or just go and buy some in the market. Look out too for wild fennel.

And look at these friends we came across one March, just next door to Maremar in the woods, having a forage. Their owner must have grazing rights!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our almond tree, Jessie, may well be begining to fruit (from about March) as well as the clematis festooned over our side fence.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Clearly, Easter is a big festival here with lots of celebrations.

For example, in Girona on Good Friday there is “the procession of the Burial of Christ”, featuring legions of Ancient Roman soldiers (manaies).

 

 

 

At the beginning of Lent (it moves with Easter of course…) we have Carnival! Floats, singing, dancing, you name it! It is a fabulous time.

In early March there is a grand horse parade and show in Peralada with lots of acrobatics and people dressing up in the traditional style.

Later on in April we have Sant Jordi in Sant Feliu de Guixols, with hot chocolate to share, sardanes, parades of giants and goodness knows what else!

 

Also in Sant Feliu de Guixols in March/April (for Easter) we have the festival of these delicious sweet pastries on the left. There are lots of cultural activities as well as tastings. A must for anyone with a sweet tooth.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you fancy a trip further afield, we can highly recommend the pea festival in Sant Andreu de Llamaneres which is apparently the place for peas in Catalunya!

You can see by the photo that you have to get there early if you want to taste the scrummy dishes the local restauranteurs make with the fresh and juicy peas.

The card in the photo belongs to one of our favourite restaurants. If you want real Catalan coastal food, this is the place!