I recently joined Titan Travel’s Little Boats of Catalonia tour, a few days exploring the coast, historic towns, and waterways of northeastern Spain and southern France. It was a varied itinerary, with each day offering something different, from rainy coastal mornings to sunny inland afternoons.
Coastal Cruising and Dalí’s Figueres
The trip began with a boat cruise along the Costa Brava from Roses to Cadaqués. Even in the wet weather, the coastline was stunning, with rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and green hillsides meeting the sea. In Cadaqués, we had a guided walk through the village, visiting the 16th-century Church of Santa María and exploring the narrow streets and local galleries. In the afternoon, we headed to Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí, for a visit to the Teatro-Museo Dalí. The museum’s eccentric architecture and inventive displays of Dalí’s work made it an unexpected highlight of the day.
Cruising the Canal du Midi
The following day brought sunnier, warmer weather as we crossed into France for a cruise along the Canal du Midi, one of Europe’s oldest man-made waterways. Lunch on board offered the chance to enjoy vineyards, medieval bridges, and quiet villages along the canal, a contrast to the coastal scenery from the day before.
Inland Catalonia and Medieval Besalú
The next day, we explored inland Catalonia, starting at the Church of Santa Maria de Porqueres, a Romanesque church overlooking Lake Banyoles. The lake and surrounding landscape were particularly beautiful in the afternoon sun. We then visited Besalú, a medieval town with cobbled streets, a fortified bridge, and a rich Jewish heritage. Lunch in a local restaurant allowed us to experience the town at a more leisurely pace.
Expert Guidance and Memorable Moments
What made the tour especially memorable was the team leading it. Our Titan Travel Tour Manager, Rachel, ensured everything ran smoothly and added personal touches including arranging a fantastic Flamenco performance at the hotel, which was a highlight of the trip. Our local guide, Victor, brought each place to life with his knowledge, anecdotes, and insight into the region’s history and culture. Their expertise and attention to detail reminded me of the value of guided tours and adventure holidays, giving access to experiences and context that are hard to get alone.
A Final Taste of Barcelona
Before returning home, Rachel had arranged for us to spend a few hours in Barcelona, rounding off the trip with a final taste of Catalonia’s architecture and culture.
Reflections on the Tour
Overall, the Little Boats of Catalonia tour combined scenic sailing, cultural visits, and historic towns in a relaxed, well-paced itinerary. Each day offered a different experience, from moody coastal weather to sunny inland landscapes, and having excellent guides like Rachel and Victor made the trip all the more memorable.