Calella: Sun, Sand, and Catalan Charm
Nestled on the Maresme Coast in northeastern Spain, Calella is a popular destination for beach lovers and families. The city boasts two stunning sandy beaches, Platja de Calella and Platja de Les Roques, inviting you to sunbathe, swim, and indulge in water sports.
Beach and Sea:
Platja de Calella, also known as Platja Major, is the main beach and stretches for over 2 kilometers.
Platja de Les Roques is slightly smaller and quieter, offering rocky areas that are perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Both beaches are awarded the Blue Flag and boast excellent infrastructure with promenades, restaurants, bars, and water sports facilities.
Activities and Attractions:
Beyond the beach, Calella offers a wide range of activities and attractions.
Hike along the Roman path to the lighthouse or explore the charming old town with its narrow streets and historic buildings.
Visit the market held every Friday and savor fresh, local produce.
Indulge in Catalan cuisine at one of the many restaurants or tapas bars.
For families with children, there is a water park, a mini-golf course, and various playgrounds.
Picrures from Calella:
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Check out Gretchen's Insta for more pics!
Culture and Nightlife:
Calella boasts a rich history and tradition, reflected in the city's numerous festivals and events.
Throughout the summer, various concerts, festivals, and markets take place.
Calella's nightlife is diverse, offering something for everyone.
From cozy bars and pubs to discos and clubs, you'll find everything to enjoy the night.
Surroundings:
Calella is an ideal starting point for excursions to the surrounding area.
Visit the charming villages of the Costa Maresme, explore the historic city of Barcelona, or go hiking in the Pyrenees.
Santa Maria Church in Calella: A City Landmark with a Long History
The Santa Maria Church in Calella, also known as the Church of Santa Maria i Sant Nicolau, is a city landmark and a testament to its rich history.
Quick Overview:
Built: 16th century, with extensions in the 18th century
Architectural style: Neoclassical with Baroque elements
Dedication: Santa Maria (Mary) and Sant Nicolau (Nicholas)
Location: Plaça de l'Església, in the center of Calella
Status: Parish church of the Roman Catholic community of Calella
History:
The first church on this site was built in the 13th century.
The current building was erected in the 16th century and expanded in the 18th century after a fire.
The church has been an important religious and social center of the city for centuries.
It was damaged during the Spanish Civil War but later restored.
Architecture:
The church has a simple but elegant facade in the Neoclassical style.
The portal is adorned with a sculpture of the Virgin Mary.
The interior of the church is three-aisled and decorated with Baroque artworks.
A bell tower rises above the church and offers a beautiful view of the city.
Significance:
The Santa Maria Church is an important architectural and historical monument in Calella.
It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
The church regularly hosts religious services, concerts, and other events.
Additional Information:
Opening hours: The church is generally open Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Admission: Admission to the church is free.
If you visit Calella, be sure to visit the Santa Maria Church. It is a beautiful example of Catalan architecture and an important part of the city's history.
Check out this quick video I took at Santa Maria Church:
Excursion Destination: Las Torretes
Las Torretes in Calella, also known as the "Towers" of Calella, are two historic watchtowers located on the Spanish coast. Situated between the towns of Sant Pol de Mar and Calella in the Maresme region of Catalonia, these towers offer a fascinating glimpse into the past.
History: The first tower, built in 1848, served a military purpose. Perched on Patona hill, it was part of a communication network connecting with other watchtowers along the coast. A second tower was constructed in 1857 for civilian telegraphy purposes. However, with the advent of more modern communication methods such as the railway in 1861, the towers gradually fell into disuse and disrepair.
Current State: Today, the towers are in ruins. Despite their dilapidated condition, they were declared a protected historical site in 1988 and efforts are underway to preserve them.
Visit: Visitors can explore the ruins of Las Torretes. The climb to the hilltop is well worth the effort as it rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of Calella and the coastline.
Hiking: A scenic path leading to the towers begins at Paseo Manuel Puigvert and continues up a small hill along a sandy trail.
Tip: Combine your visit to the towers with a leisurely stroll along the beach or a discovery tour of Calella's historic old town.
Why Visit? Although the towers themselves may appear somewhat weathered, their historical significance and the stunning natural surroundings make them a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers alike. As you stand among the ruins, you can't help but imagine the bustling activity that once took place here, connecting distant lands through the power of communication.
Here's my video of Las Torretes:
ConclusionCalella
Calella is the perfect destination for a relaxing beach vacation with family or friends. The city offers everything you could hope for from a wonderful holiday: sun, sand, sea, culture, delicious food, and a wide range of leisure activities.
And finally, here’s my complete tour of Calella and its surroundings:
Activities in Calella: