Why Tesalate beach towels are the best towels for travellers

Why Tesalate beach towels are the best towels for travellers

by | Jan 5, 2019 | Reviews, Tips and Tricks, Travel

Why Tesalate beach towels are the best towels for travellers

Facebook has been reading my mind.

Granted, my search history probably gave it away but they clearly know that I’ve been dreaming of future travels and trips to the beach. For quite some time now, I’ve been seeing ads for what I can only describe as the traveller’s dream towel – bright and colourful designs and, wait for it, the promise of being sand free, and you know what, that’s ok with me. If you haven’t seen or heard of Tesalate towels before, then prepare to have your mind blown.

Tesalate towels are revolutionary beach towels that are made from a special microfibre that allows sand to brush right off, allowing you to travel to and from the beach, without worrying about taking all of its sand with you. But these towels are not only the best for beach goers, but Tesalate towels are the best towels for travellers too.

As a self-appointed mermaid and perpetual traveller, the promise of a lightweight, sand-free towel is hard to ignore, so when we were recently invited to review these towels from Tesalate, I was pretty excited. And after some thorough ‘research and testing’ by the beach and pool during our recent travels (it’s a tough job, but someone’s got to do it), we’ve made a list of 5 reasons why the Tesalate beach towels are the best towels for travellers.

1. Light and compact

This one is for the travellers. The Tesalate towels weigh less-than 600g when dry and fit into a cute, compact case no bigger than the size of a tissue box. And yet, you still get a standard sized beach towel (160cm x 80cm) when unfolded and laid out. This makes it easy to carry around in a beach bag, backpack or cabin luggage, and is the perfect towel to pack for an upcoming beach holiday.

2. Sand-free (aka ‘I got 99 problems, but sand ain’t one’)

The main selling point from Tesalate, is that their towels allow you to leave the beach and the sand behind. There is nothing worse than finding buckets of sand in the beach bag, car and house after a trip to the beach. I mean, it doesn’t seem to matter how many times you shake that towel out, the stuff seems to find its way everywhere. With Tesalate, their exclusive AbsorbLite™ microfiber makes it easy to brush or shake the sand right off the towels. We tested it with dry and wet sand and in both cases, the sand easily shook right off (the wet sand was a little more stubborn, but still came off) and was left behind.

3. Quick dry

One of THE worst things when travelling is hoping that damp beach/bathroom towel that you hastily packed into your luggage as you scurry from hostel, hotel or AirBnB apartment to the next will be dry by the next time you need it. But it rarely is. Until now.

Tesalate state that their towels are “engineered to dry in half the time than a regular towel”. To be honest, I wasn’t standing there with a timer to compare drying times, however I did notice that the towels dried pretty quickly between swims. As they are a lightweight microfiber, they definitely don’t carry the weight of a regular beach towel when wet, so it’s pretty easy to find a spot to hang them up and allow them to dry.

4. Stylish designs

I’m not going to lie, the bright and colourful eye-catching designs is what really got me obsessing over these towels. They’ve got over 40 vibrant patterns and designs that will turn heads and are also double-sided with a cool black and white geometric pattern. The range of designs, from simple to bold, will appeal to every individual.

5. Absorbent

These towels really are absorbent and are stated to retain up to a litre of water. Between swims I was able to go from sopping wet to fairly dry pretty quick with the Tesalate beach towel. I don’t know how the fabric does it, but it retains a lot of water, without feeling like they’ve been soaked themselves. The closest comparison I can make is like a chamois cloth – absorbent and fairly quick to dry.

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What else makes them awesome?

So, this doesn’t necessarily make them better for travellers, but their returns policy is pretty awesome. They offer free returns for those who are unhappy with their towel, even if it’s been used. Their shipping was super-fast too, arriving within a couple of days from ordering. And personally, we love that they are from an Australian company.

The towels retail at $79AUD, which admittedly cost more than a standard beach towel,  however these towels are hardy and I can’t see myself ever needing to purchase another beach towel again. If you are an avid traveller or beach goer who likes to travel light and hates bringing sand home, it is worth it.

Fellow travellers and beach lovers from around the world can purchase these towels from Tesalate.

Disclaimer: We were gifted these Tesalate towels to do a review. It just so happens that we love them and the opinions above are true, regardless.

The Ultimate Tokyo Itinerary – For Big Kids!

The Ultimate Tokyo Itinerary – For Big Kids!

by | Jan 11, 2018 | Japan

The Ultimate Tokyo Itinerary – For Big Kids!

 

You think you know Tokyo, but you haven’t truly experienced the exuberance of Tokyo until you fight a sumo, eat rainbow spaghetti, watch robots dance, make your own udon noodles and go-kart through the streets in an adult-sized Mario onesie…. Tokyo is seriously a big kid’s playground, and if you want to experience the fun side of Tokyo and delight your inner child, check out our ULTIMATE Tokyo itinerary for ‘big kids’ below.

 

What to do in Tokyo, Japan

Day 1

Cook (and eat!) delicious food

Japan is foodie heaven, so why not learn how to make some of the culinary delights from a local? Ayuko at Buddha Bellies Cooking School is a trained sushi instructor, Sake sommelier and professional cook. She shares her passion for food in small, intimate classes, where you will learn to make a range of delicious Japanese food, from udon noodles, to teriyaki and more. The best part though? Eating the food at the end and being pleasantly surprised by how great you can cook Japanese food.

For an in-depth take on the class AND a delicious recipe, check out our Buddha Bellies post.

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The Ultimate Tokyo Itinerary
Tokyo Itinerary

Visit Harajuku

Tokyo is known for some of its crazy fashion and characters, and Harajuku is the heart of it all. If you want to buy some funky items (and spend up big), this is the place for it. Here you will also find eclectic ‘op shops’ (thrift stores) and unique stores. The atmosphere is buzzing and if you really want to get amongst the thick of it, try navigating your way down Takeshita Street!

The weird and wonderful Harajuku, Tokyo

 

If all the crowds and characters get a little too much for you, take a short stroll up to Meiji Shrine, where the loudness of Harajuku will feel like another world away. Wander through the tranquil forest-like gardens and temples, purify yourself at the cleansing stations, make a prayer and, if you are lucky, witness a traditional Japanese wedding.

Meiji Shrine, Tokyo
What to see in Tokyo

Eat rainbow monster food

After feeling anew, head back to the main part of Harajuku and visit Monster Cafe. This colourful cafe can only be described by imagining a cafe being taken over by psychedelic muppet-monsters and harajuku girls. The booths are like something from Alice in Wonderland and all the food looks like it’s made out of rainbow playdough. Rest assured it isn’t and the food isn’t half bad. Of course, it’s no Michelin meal, but it is fun to taste each coloured cream ‘blob’ on the plate or ice-cream and realise each colour is a different bold flavour. Monster Cafe also have performances at night and at unspecified times during the day, so if you want to see some of the quirky performances, time your visit well (and perhaps book in advance if you want to see a show).

Rainbow food at Monster Cafe, Tokyo
The weird and wonderful Tokyo

Day 2

Fight a sumo (or watch a match)

Sumo wrestling is a national treasure of Japan and a sporting tradition that is still going strong after many centuries. Sumo wrestling tournaments only occur in the odd months of the year, so if you are not visiting during the matches, you can do something even more memorable, fight a sumo yourself! The Asakusa Sumo Experience is a great way to learn the intricacies of sumo wrestling and even attempt to take on one of the masters. And, once finished challenging the sumo wrestlers, you can tuck into a well-earned hearty sumo wrestler lunch.

Want to see and read more about fighting a sumo wrestler (and at the very least, laugh at our attempts)? Check out our post!

Fight a sumo in Tokyo
Fighting sumos in Japan

Visit temples

If you aren’t too exhausted from your morning match, take a leisurely wander through the streets of Asakusa towards Sensō-ji Temple. Sensoji is Tokyo’s oldest temple, dating back to 628, and one of Tokyo’s most photogenic. The charming alleys around the temple are also worth strolling through and stopping to try snacks along the way.

Must-visit temples of Tokyo

Watch a psychedelic Robot Show

A visit to Tokyo is not complete with a night filled with neon lights, pyrotechnics and…. dancing robots. Robot Restaurant in Shinjuku highlights the craziness of Japan that we all have heard about and loved. It’s pretty over-the-top and a little cheesy, but you will have a hard time trying not to smile or laugh at the amazing electronic cabaret show before your eyes.

For dinner, you are spoilt for choice, with ramen bars and my favourite chain: Co-Co Curry. You can easily find some good meals for under ¥1500.

To see a short video on Robot Restaurant and get links to discounted tickets, check out our Robot Restaurant Review.

Robot Restaurant is a must-see in Tokyo!
Robot Restaurant, Tokyo, Japan

Day 3

Hakone Day Trip and Hot Springs fun

If the hustle and bustle of Tokyo gets a little too much, then a relaxing day trip to Hakone will set you right. Only 2 hours from Tokyo, Hakone is home to some relaxing onsens (hot springs) and amazing views of Mount Fuji. You can take a boat ride out on Lake Ashi, visit the Hakone Shrine and unwind in one of the hot spring resorts. If you are after an onsen with a quirky twist, Yunessun Kowakien onsen park is a great place to visit. You can rotate between unique baths filled with wine, sake, coffee and more, enjoy some fun outdoor baths and slides or, for the traditionalist, relax in the traditional outdoor (read: naked) onsens. There is a restaurant at the attached hotel, but we found a really lovely soba restaurant beforehand by wandering from the train station through the town and over the bridge and stumbling upon Hatsuhana Soba Honten. Note: Japan have a pretty strict ‘no visible tattoos’ policy in a lot of onsens and it also applies to this onsen park.

Check out our post to find out how to get to Hakone and read about the unique Yunessun Kowakien onsen.

Yunessun onsen park

Check out the busiest street in Tokyo & Whiskey Alley

To fit two extremes in the one day, serene to hectic, head out for a fresh sushi dinner at Sushi Zanmai in Shibuya, cross the busiest street in Tokyo and finish with a night cap in Nonbei Alley – An ambient alley filled with tiny whiskey bars that can hold 5 people at a time (but that doesn’t stop the locals from squeezing more in for a raucous night out).

Visit Tokyo's busiest street
Nonbei Alley, Shibuya

Day 4

Hoon through the streets Mario-style

Let the big kid really let loose and spend your fourth day in Tokyo by go-karting through the streets, MarioKart style. MariCar offer 2 and 3 hour accompanied laps of Tokyo, dressed as your favourite cartoon character. This is the coolest way to see Tokyo and will leave you amazed that this is legal. It also turns you into the attraction, with many pedestrians stopping to take quick photos of you as you wait at the traffic lights.

Check out our video and post of MariCar here!

Shopping for interests

After a cheap lunch in one of the train station eateries, it’s time to flex your bank account. If you love cooking, make your way to Kitchen Street to pick up all the tools and utensils you need to create a Japanese feast at a bargain price. The important thing to note however, is that all the stores only accept cash, and the atms are few and far between (best bet is a 7eleven). If you prefer shopping for electronics, Akihabara or even Shinjuku have plenty to offer (we liked the electronic department stores) and if you want fashion, you can’t miss Harajuku, Shibuya and Ginza.

If you prefer more sightseeing, this is the perfect opportunity to visit the Imperial Palace and grounds. Conveniently located in the heart of Tokyo, the site has beautiful gardens, remains of the Edo castle and the Imperial Palace itself. For the history buffs, you can take organised tours to visit parts of the Imperial Palace.

And to top off the ultimate Tokyo itinerary, spend your last night enjoying the incredible neon views from one of the rooftop bars.

Sensoji Temple, Tokyo

Where to stay in Tokyo

We loved staying in Shinjuku, as it is very central and well connected by the metro. Super Hotel Shinjuku Kabukicho was good value, with daily breakfast and cute amenities offered for free (for female guests). If you want a unique experience, book a night at Book and Bed Capsule Hotel. Japan is famous for capsule hotels, and this one has a unique bookish charm – not for the light sleepers or claustrophobics though! For something a little risqué, but not too naughty, Hotel & Spa An Shinjuku is for adults-only fun. The rooms are fitted out with a fancy bathroom, luxurious toiletries and even your own in-room karaoke! For more choices, check out booking.com

Book and Bed, Tokyo

How to get around

A JR Pass is great for travel throughout Japan and covers all JR operated trains (including the bullet train). Alternatively, Tokyo is well connected by the metro and is a ‘walkable’ city.

What to eat

Tokyo has no shortage of places to eat. Our picks are Co-Co Curry House, the crazy little Ramen places (you’ll know them when you see them) and and even convenience stores and train stations have excellent food that is reasonably priced. We’ve also written some delicious suggestions on What to Eat in Japan and even picked out some of the most Insta-worthy foods.

What do you think? Is this the ultimate Tokyo itinerary? What else would you add?

This post contains some affiliate links. Booking via these links won’t cost you any extra, but will help us to keep bringing you fun travel ideas and inspiration!

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4 Reasons Why You Should Head to Northern France

4 Reasons Why You Should Head to Northern France

by | Dec 21, 2017 | Uncategorized

4 Reasons Why You Should Head to Northern France

 

France receives around 200 million international visitors a year and it’s one of the most visited destinations in Europe around the world. It’s a handy holiday spot, just around an hour flight away from the UK and easily accessible by Eurostar too.

Home to Lille and Calais, whilst also incorporating the famous region of Normandy, we think northern France has enough variety, activities and sights to keep any holiday-goer happy. Here are four things you can do in northern France that make a visit there a worthy choice when planning your next break abroad:

 

Opal Coast by CarineH

Admire Côte d’Opale (a.k.a. The Opal Coast)

If you prefer to feel the sand beneath your toes rather than choosing a bustling city break, northern France has the stunning Opal Coast for holiday-goers to relax and unwind.

With the beaches, rugged dunes and towering cliffs stretching over 75 miles on the Opal Coast, beach lovers can easily find a peaceful spot to while away the hours. Le Touquet’s idyllic beach is a favourite spot to unwind, or take a walk around the stunning cliffs at Cap Blanc Nez for inspiring views.

Do you think Montpellier could rival Paris as France’s pre-eminent city? Read here to find out!

Sample Calvados in Lower Normandy

This is a must when visiting Northern France and those who enjoy trying new cuisines will love sampling the distinctive flavour of calvados. For the uninitiated, calvados is an apple brandy that has been produced in the Normandy region for many centuries. The specially selected apples are made into cider and then distilled into brandy, which is aged in oak casks.

Enjoy a glass with some of the region’s finest cuisine. The 600km coastline means fresh seafood is readily available, so you can enjoy delicious dishes of lobsters, oysters, scallops and clams at most restaurants. Also, don’t miss out on the impressive cheeseboards usually served before dessert!

 

Want to see more of France? Check out our guide to visiting the French Riviera here!

 

Admire a variety of sites

If you think the Eiffel Tower is France’s most iconic site, think again. Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy is a vision, and looks amazing at high and low tide. Northern France has many beautiful attractions and sites to explore, including picturesque spots like Honfleur, the contemporary Louvre-Lens gallery and one of Europe’s largest aquariums, the Nausicaa Aquarium in Boulogne-sur-Mer. Northern France has plenty to offer for all interests and ages.

Honfleur by AurelienDP

Enjoy Outdoor Activities

There’s something for every member of the family when you head to northern France and for those who enjoy an adventure holiday, it’s the ideal opportunity to try something new! Whether you want to go hiking, cycling or horse riding, or even head to a tree top adventure park, a spot like Brittany can bring you all of nature’s finest.

Don’t let the fun stop there, either. You could add some extra adventure to your northern France stay in a holiday parc that has loads of activities for the whole family, such as pools, waterslides, zip wires and canoeing, as well as shops, spas, barbeques and gyms for the adults.

 

If you still want more inspiration for France, read why Marseille is one of Guy’s favourite French cities.

 

For a holiday in Europe that appeals to all travellers and families, northern France is a great option. With activities, beautiful sight-seeing opportunities and mouth-watering cuisine to sample, what are you waiting for? Get your holiday to northern France booked today!

Brittany Coast By onkelramirez1

Mont Saint-Michel by skeeze via Pixabay; Opal Coast by CarineH via Pixabay; Honfleur by AurelienDP via Pixabay; Brittany Pink Granite Coast by onkelramirez1 via Pixabay.

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The Best of Costa Brava: 4-Day Itinerary

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  If you are planning on visiting Spain, you can’t go past visiting Costa Brava. With fairytale towns, pristine beaches and delicious food Costa Brava is a traveller’s delight, and all within easy reach from Barcelona. The region of Costa Brava stretches along...

Hakone Kowakien Yunessun – Big kid fun outside Tokyo

Hakone Kowakien Yunessun – Big kid fun outside Tokyo

by | Dec 9, 2017 | Japan, Travel

Hakone Kowakien Yunessun – Big kid fun outside Tokyo

Imagine bathing in a pool of sake, having buckets of it flung into your face while young people scream in glee around you.

You might be tempted to think this is some sort of foam party with a bunch of university students, but it’s actually one of the many quirky things that you will experience at Hakone Kowakien Yunessun, a short trip outside of Tokyo.

The Sake pool at Hakone Kawakien Yunessun

In the sake pool at Hakone Kawakien Yunessun!

Why visit Hakone Kowakien Yunessun

If you’re unfamiliar with Hakone Kowakien Yunessun, let me paint you a picture: it’s an aquatic playground (read water slides and outdoor hot springs), including pools filled with green tea, coffee, red wine, sake, etc. Yep, you read that right.

The town of Hakone is a famous tourist spot due to its natural hot springs. The Kowakien Yunessun (which includes the aquatic centre and nearby hotel) is located on a natural hot spring just outside  of Hakone, and also has an amazing onsen, or traditional Japanese bath house that you can visit. But be warned, the onsen is not for the shy and prudish – onsens traditionally require you to be nude, albeit with a tiny white towel for a degree of modesty (what good is a tiny bit of cloth?).

Which one would you try?

Hakone and the Kowakien Yunessun make for a great day trip from Tokyo and show you a little more of the traditional side of Japanese culture than you might find in Shinjuku or other suburbs of Tokyo.

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Start your engines! Maricar in Tokyo
Ling getting ready to race in MariCar

How to get to Hakone Kowakien Yunessun

There are various options to get to Hakone from Tokyo. For more information on your transport options to Hakone, check out this guide. We were based in Shinjuku during our trip to Japan, but these instructions will work from most stations in Tokyo with just a few amendments.

Our fearless leader explaining MariCar rules

These waters slides look pretty tranquil, but we both worked up a fair amount of steam coming down!

Step 1 – Using our Japan rail pass, we took a JR fast train from Shinagawa to Odawara (free with the JR pass!) and then purchased a separate pass for the Odakyo Railway line to Hakone (a couple of hundred Yen from memory).

Step 2 – Congratulations, you’ve made it to Hakone! Finally, after stopping for a quick couple of (hundred) sushi rolls, we jumped on a bus winding its way up into the mountains to get to the Yunessun (the bus will stop right outside). All up, it’s about 2 hours of travel time, which is really just enough time to thoroughly check Facebook and post some of the previous days photos to Instagram… 🙂

Looking for more things to do in Tokyo? Read about how you can Fight a Sumo here or drive through the streets of Tokyo in a go-kart!

Your other transport options include:

Option 2 – Fast route – for those willing to take a faster, more direct route, the Romance Car option could be the one for you. From Shinjuku station, you will catch an express train with a few limited stops to Hakone Yumoto station, which takes only 85 minutes and costs 2080 yen (not covered by JR Rail Pass). Then simply transfer to the Odakyu line and get the bus (i.e. follow step 2 above).

Overlooking the valley in the Yunessun's famous hot springs

Overlooking the valley in the Yunessun’s famous hot springs

 

Relax in the hot springs…

Once you have had your fun in the sake, coffee, both red and green tea pools and maxxed out on the waterslides, head up the stairs to the natural hot springs which overlook the valley below. The hot springs have been visited by Japanese for centuries and when we were there, the springs themselves were practically deserted and we pretty much had them to ourselves.

The great thing about Kowakien Yunessun, is that you get to experience both the water park fun and relax in the hot springs, all in the one place. Be sure to also visit the Mori No Yu section of the main building – the traditional (read: naked) onsen which has several baths, pools and springs set in an amazing Japanese garden.

Note: Most Japanese onsens usually have a strict ‘no visible tattoos’ policy, and unfortunately this applies at Yunessun and Mori No Yu.

Conclusion

Hakone surprised us. It wasn’t just the way having a Japanese staff member spray a bucket of coffee water in our faces made us feel (yes, that really happened). No, it was far deeper than that. The Hakone Kawakien Yunessun has that perfect mix of fun and relaxation in both a modern and traditional setting. Enjoy!

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The Ultimate Tokyo Itinerary – For Big Kids!

The Ultimate Tokyo Itinerary – For Big Kids!

by | Jan 11, 2018 | | 29 Comments

  You think you know Tokyo, but you haven’t truly experienced the exuberance of Tokyo until you fight a sumo, eat rainbow spaghetti, watch robots dance, make your own udon noodles and go-kart through the streets in an adult-sized Mario onesie…. Tokyo is seriously...

Hakone Kowakien Yunessun – Big kid fun outside Tokyo

Hakone Kowakien Yunessun – Big kid fun outside Tokyo

by | Dec 9, 2017 | , | 14 Comments

Imagine bathing in a pool of sake, having buckets of it flung into your face while young people scream in glee around you. You might be tempted to think this is some sort of foam party with a bunch of university students, but it’s actually one of the many quirky...

The Best of Costa Brava: 4-Day Itinerary

The Best of Costa Brava: 4-Day Itinerary

by | Nov 20, 2017 | Barcelona, Spain

The Best of Costa Brava: 4-Day Itinerary

If you are planning on visiting Spain, you can’t go past visiting Costa Brava. With fairytale towns, pristine beaches and delicious food Costa Brava is a traveller’s delight, and all within easy reach from Barcelona.

The region of Costa Brava stretches along 200 kilometres of coastline from Blanes to Portbou. If only we all had the time to explore it all! If, like us, you don’t have the luxury of time to explore it all, here is a 4-day itinerary of the best of Costa Brava. Of course, the more time you have the better, but this itinerary has a good mix of beaches, charming towns, food and culture. Note, this one is best if you have a hire car.

Day 1- Tossa de Mar

Tossa de Mar has the undeniable charm of a fishermen’s village combined with rich history, dating back to the 1st century. The most spectacular characteristic of Tossa de Mar is the medieval fortified village, Vila Vella, complete with picturesque streets and fortress walls offering views of the precious bay below.

Tossa de Mar is a must at Costa Brava

AM – Tossa de Mar has a stunning coastline that can be enjoyed by foot or boat. There are plenty of hiking trails and mountain bike trails, or you can hire a kayak and make your way along the coast and stop in at some beaches at your own leisure. As the weather in September is glorious for the sea, we opted to kayak and enjoyed the pre-lunch workout.

Lunch – Even though Tossa de Mar is a small town, you are spoilt for restaurant options. There are a lot of ‘touristy’ places along the beach offering Menu del Días (Menu of the Day), but walk into the old quarters, and you’ll find a good variety of cuisines. Our personal favourite was La Grotta, offering delicious handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas, in a cute setting just by the old walls.

PM – Tossa de Mar is a town made to be enjoyed on foot, so spend the afternoon strolling through the town and soaking up the history and charm. Visit the 1st century Els Ametllers Roman villa, (which has been immaculately preserved), enjoy the charming fairytale-like streets of the old town and admire the simplicity of the Chapel of Mare de Déu del Socors. Of course, the highlight is walking along the fortified walls of the Castillo de Tossa de Mar, where you can admire the quaint storefronts and wonderful views of the town and bay.

Dinner – Enjoy traditional recipes and local produce at Bahia Restaurant. Bahia Restaurant is one of the first restaurants to introduce traditional Catalan and local dishes from the area, and a lot of the menu are still original home recipes. One of their specialties is cim i tomba – a Tossa de Mar flavoursome stew consisting of fish and potatoes.

Where to stay: For comfortable apartments and views of the castle, check out Pierre & Vacances Villa Romana.

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Tossa de Mar is a must see in Costa Brava
Kayaking is a great way to see Costa Brava

Day 2

Leave Tossa de Mar and drive up the coast to visit an abundance of beaches at your leisure.

Platja d'es Codolar is a favourite beach in Tossa de Mar
Lloret de Mar beach

Costa Brava boasts 200 kilometres of spectacular coastline, so it’s bound to have beaches and coves to please all tastes. Some will have restaurants and facilities nearby, while others are surrounded by nothing else but wonderful nature. Here are some of the locals’ picks:

  • Cala Giverola
  • Platja d’Aro
  • Aiguablava
  • Tamariu
  • Sa Tuna
  • Cap de Begur
  • Platja El Golfet
  • Cala Montgó

Once you’ve had your fair share of beach, it’s time to head to Girona.

Where to stay: Nothing beats enjoying a coffee on the balcony at Apartamentos Casa Flora

Girona is picturesque at any time of day

While you’re visiting Costa Brava, why not check out my favourite city, Barcelona.

Day 3

AM – As Australians, we are coffee snobs, so when we find great coffee around the world, we make sure we save that info for future use! It turns out that Girona also has a good coffee culture (must be from all the expat cyclists that live there!) and a good place to start the day is at Espresso Mafia. These guys take their coffee seriously and they are situated in a pretty alley in the old town.

Once awake, stroll over to Local Market for a local food experience or cooking class. The girls here are passionate about food and local produce, and your tastebuds will thank you for the experience. Bookings are essential, and both Irene and Mariona speak perfect English and can help you decide on what to book.

Local Market Cooking school in Girona

Lunch – If you aren’t already full from the food tasting at Local Market, you can find an array of excellent places to eat within the old town. The locals take their food here seriously and you are bound to enjoy whatever you find in the area.

PM – Did you know Girona was selected by the producers of Game of Thrones to film Season 5 for the colour of the city’s stones and its medieval feel? In fact, not much had to be done to the city to convert it into the streets of Braavos and Kings Landing (apart from a bit of CGI here and there). Game of Thrones fan or not, Girona is incredibly picturesque and it’s worth spending a few hours wandering through the old town, crossing the Eiffel Bridge and admiring the colourful apartments that adorn the banks of the river. If all that walking requires a little pick-me-up, treat yourself to a famously quirky ice-cream from Rocambolesc.

Crossing the Eiffel Bridge in Girona is a must!

Dinner – It’s too hard to pick just one place for dinner, so here are some of the local’s top picks below.

  • Le Bistrot – Situated on the romantic Pujada de Sant Domènec and serving delicious pizza and pasta.
  • Draps – Great place for sharing food.
  • Llevataps – Here you will find delicious and creative dishes, all perfect for Instagram.
  • Brots de Vi – Simple food and good wine.
  • La Simfonia – The place to go if you love cheese and wine.
  • El Celler de Can Roca – Voted in the Top 50 restaurants in the world, you are bound to be delighted. The wait list is long (and prices justifiably high), but if you are willing to splurge and treat yourself, this is the place to do it.
Girona Cathedral was featured in Game of Thrones

Day 4 – Get surreal in Figueres

AM – Today’s a big day, so you should start your morning with a delicious breakfast at our favourite breakfast franchise, Federal. This café is an Australian franchise, so the menu is filled with delicious options, from pancakes to bacon & egg rolls, and delicious coffee.

Drive to Figueres and get surreal. If you are a fan of art, then the Dalí Theatre-Museum should not be missed. Whilst Salvador Dalí is most famous for his surreal art, the museum displays all of the styles he’s explored and it is bound to please any art lover. Tickets are €14 per adult. For up-to-date opening days and hours (they are often closed on Mondays), check the website.

Lunch – If you like a good Italian meal, wander over to our favourite Italian chain, La Tagliatella, conveniently located around the corner of the Dalí Theatre-Museum. Our pick? The Tagliatella Casalinga.

Dalí museum in Figueres for the art lovers
Besalú's medieval bridge is spectacular in Costa Brava

PM –25 minutes from Figueres, is another gem of the Costa Brava region, Besalú. Besalú is a small medieval village, with a striking 11th century bridge. If you love the idea of wandering through enchanting cobblestone streets, then this is the place for you. Make sure you bring your camera, as there are plenty of picturesque corners, waiting to be captured.

Dinner – Head back to Girona and try one of the other restaurants listed above.

 

Besalú is an enchanting gem of Costa Brava

If you have more time….

Of course, the more time you have to explore Costa Brava, the better, so if you are fortunate to have more time, you should spend a couple more days in Tossa de Mar and Girona, or you can check out the following:

  • Blanes – The ‘Gateway to the Costa Brava’, this seaside village has an extravagant botanical garden, Marimurtra, that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Ruins of Empúries – If you love Roman ruins and the sea, the Ruins of Empúries, dating back to 6th Century B.C. are worth a visit.
  • Cadaques – The easternmost point in Spain, this is a picturesque fishing village of white buildings overlooking the sea and part of the Dalí Triangle.
  • For wine lovers, Costa Brava is also a great destination for wine tourism.

Best time to visit – if you want to enjoy the best of Costa Brava and its beaches, but don’t like to share it with the summer crowds, early June and September are the perfect months, as the weather is still perfect and the crowds are minimal.

So there you have it, the best of Costa Brava in 4 days! It’s the perfect combination of medieval cities, spectacular beaches, delicious food and surreal art! If you are a lover of any of these things, then Costa Brava should be on your next Spanish itinerary.

Picturesque sunsets in Girona

Have you been to Costa Brava? Have we covered the best sights to see? Where else should be on the Costa Brava itinerary?

A huge thanks to Patronat de Turisme Costa Brava Girona, Tossa de Mar Tourist Office, Kayaks Nicolau and Local Market Girona for showing us some of the best sights, sounds and tastes of Costa Brava. 

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