Sunshine & Spanish Charm on the Costa Brava

Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in France on a bed and breakfast basis.

Travel onwards to our overnight hotel in the Montpellier region, stopping en route in Lyon – the perfect place to stop for lunch at your leisure thanks to its reputation as the gourmet capital of France! Situated where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, this impressive city takes us on a journey through time. Its Old Town – now a UNESCO World Heritage Site – offers a maze of narrow streets, vaulted passageways and historic buildings, while another highlight is the Notre Dame de Fourvière, a late 19th-century basilica built in shimmering white stone.

We continue onwards to our hotel in Lloret de Mar, visiting Perpignan along the way. Near the Spanish border, this charming French town was once declared the centre of the world by Salvador Dalí and is a listed Town of Art and History. The medieval centre is a delight to explore, boasting the Moorish-style Palace of the Kings of Mallorca and the mighty 14^th-century city gate, which is now home to the Museum of Catalan History.

We take a guided morning trip to Tossa de Mar, once a medieval town and now a popular seaside resort that has managed to retain all of its original charm and character. Away from the beach and turquoise waters, discover the walled Old Town with its tangle of cobbled streets and enchanting castle.

Enjoy two full days at leisure in the lively resort of Lloret de Mar. Relax on golden beaches, explore the town’s historic centre or stroll the palm-lined promenade with its sea views and bustling cafés. Perhaps visit the romantic Santa Clotilde Gardens or browse local boutiques for souvenirs. Whether you choose to unwind by the water, sample delicious Catalan cuisine or simply soak up the sun, Lloret offers the perfect mix of fun and relaxation.

A scenic drive along the coast awaits. We stop first in Besalú, a beautifully preserved medieval town with a 12^th-century Romanesque bridge over the River Fluvià, narrow arcaded streets and small squares. We then head to the charming town of Figueres, birthplace of the eccentric artist Salvador Dalí and a lovely spot for some souvenir shopping.

We head to Montserrat, which means ‘serrated mountain’. This rocky range offers magnificent views of some of the most unusual geological formations in the whole of Catalonia. Nestled between the peaks is the well-known site of the Benedictine Abbey, Santa Maria de Montserrat, which hosts the Virgin of Montserrat sanctuary, has links to the Holy Grail and is the centre of the Catalan faith. It contains the Black Virgin of Montserrat, an incredible feat of 12^th-century carving and believed to have been requested by Jesus in Jerusalem.

Join our optional excursion to Girona, a compact and charming city located halfway between the sea and mountains. There is plenty to enjoy during our day out here, from discovering the grandiose Gothic cathedral to exploring the beautifully preserved Jewish quarter. We enjoy a guided tour of the city and explore the cobblestone streets, the medieval architecture and discover the hidden gems of this captivating Catalonian city.

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure in Lloret de Mar. Take a dip in the clear Mediterranean waters, find a shady spot on the beach or explore the historic Old Town with its pretty churches and lively squares. For a touch of tranquillity, stroll through the clifftop Santa Clotilde Gardens or simply relax with a drink at a beachfront café. However you spend your day, Lloret offers the perfect slice of Costa Brava life.

We head to beautiful Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious tapas and vibrant culture. Highlights of this beachside city include the historic Gothic Quarter, the bustling streets known as the Ramblas and Gaudí’s incredible cathedral, the Sagrada Familia.

Spend the day exactly as you please in Lloret de Mar. Whether you fancy a swim in the sparkling Mediterranean, a wander through the charming Old Town with its historic churches and bustling plazas or a lazy afternoon by the sea, the choice is yours.

We travel to our overnight hotel in Dijon, stopping along the way for lunch (not included).

Continue to Calais for our return ferry home.