aix and Alt Empordà are two counties within the province of Girona on the Costa Brava, situated at the northern-mostpoint of Catalonia. Medieval villages, pine-clad hillsides sloping down to crystal clear bays and picturesque fishing villages make up this enchanting region; it’s a wonderful place to explore, enjoy leisure pursuits in the natural countryside and lose oneself completely. The historic city of Girona marks the southern flank of the region. Its Gothic quarter is one of the best preserved in Europe with steep, narrow streets that climb past the striking cathedral to the city’s southern stone ramparts inside which the University of Girona is situated, an institution deeply rooted in Catalonia and Catalan culture. A day strolling around the city will be rewarded with enticing dining, enthralling architecture and excellent shopping. The other city of the region is Figueres to the north and is best known as the birthplace and home of Salvador Dalí, whose art has always drawn heavily from the surreal landscapes of the wild (Brava) coastline especially around the remote port of Cadaques on Cap Creus. The renaissance of the northern Costa Brava has seen the pretty hilltop town of Begur become one of the most sought after locations for holiday homes by the wealthy from Barcelona. Lying at the centre of Cap Begur the town acts as the focal point for a number of beautiful bays and coves that fan around the beautiful, but densely forested coastline. It is no wonder that significant hotel development has been Empordà B You may have heard that the town of Begur and the island of Cuba have a lot in common. In the 19th century, many of the Spanish emigrated to the Caribbean looking for fortune, and came back as wealthy traders. They were the so-called ‘indians’, and Begur’s streets and inhabitants carry a huge footprint of the Indian’s culture. Splendid houses in the colonial style have given the hilltop town an exotic appeal, many with colonnaded terraces, striking frescoes and lush, tropical gardens. Another legacy is to be found in the many bars, where the art of mixing the perfect Cuban Mojito has become the signature cocktail in town. Cubanos & mojitos 28
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