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… is to share something relevant, something authentic, something real, something cool, something interesting, something personal & something different, via travel stories & images. We are focusing on ideas from local sources, giving tips that are usually unknown for travelers and foreigners, guides to secret places which only the guy from the given neighborhood could know about, to the hidden picturesque view, with recommending everything besides the obvious: the local real feel, the adventure of discovering the unknown, the authenticity, culinary guide to the meals that locals are really cooking and eating at home, and much more. Hope you will read us, feel inspired and enjoy the journey, as much as we do!

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OUR LATEST TRAVEL STORIES:
penedès by bicycle

Bicycle tourism in Penedès Region, Catalonia – Interview with BIKEMOTIONS

Probably the best way to discover Penedès is by bicycle. This is the interview with Bikemotions, a bicycle tourism services company located in Subirats. We got a promotional video where we saw a train station surrounded by vineyards. It had a large parking lot with bikes for rent. We thought that was an attractive offer, very trendy. We wanted to interview them and it did not take us long to reach them on their website. Ester Boada replied to our email very quickly and answered our interview professionally and very fast. Its tourist proposal, however, is about slow travel and …

Continue reading “Bicycle tourism in Penedès Region, Catalonia – Interview with BIKEMOTIONS”

by danigarciagimenez
Bikemotions penedès en bicicleta

Turisme en bicicleta pel Penedès – Entrevista amb BIKEMOTIONS

Segurament la millor manera de descobrir el Penedès és el turisme en bicicleta. Aquesta és la entrevista amb Bikemotions, una empresa de serveis turístics en bicicleta ubicada a Subirats.  Ens va arribar un vídeo promocional on es veia una estació de tren envoltada de vinyes amb un gran aparcament de bicicletes per llogar. Ens va semblar una oferta atractiva, en línea amb les tendències actuals. Els varem voler entrevistar i no ens va costar gens trobarlos al seu web. L’Ester Boada ens va respondre al nostre correu electrònic molt ràpid i va donar resposta a la nostre entrevista en un …

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by danigarciagimenez
UNESCO World Heritage route in Vall de Boí

Vall de Boí – The route of the UNESCO World Heritage Catalan Romanesque Churches

We propose here the UNESCO World Heritage route in Vall de Boí, along the Catalan Romanesque Churches included in UNESCO World Heritage List on 30th November 2000. According to UNESCO’s criteria, this set of churches of the Catalan Pyrenees shows significant developments in Romanesque art and architecture and testifies to profound cultural interchange across medieval Europe, and in particular across the mountain barrier of the Pyrenees. In addition, these churches of Vall de Boí are an especially pure and consistent example of Romanesque art in a virtually untouched rural setting. We invite you to follow us on a visit you …

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by danigarciagimenez

Interview with “Magyar Vándor” – the Hungarian Wanderer from Barcelona

For Hungarian version click here. A magyar verziót itt éred el. BTO – Could you please give us a short introduction to “Magyar Vándor Barcelona”? MV – The visitors to Barcelona have the opportunity to discover the mysteries of the city and the narrow alleys not known to everyone with the Hungarian-language tours led by “Hungarian Wanderer Barcelona“. The experience is enriched by the passionate stories and legends of the only Hungarian tour guide in the city (who has been living in the Catalan capital for 18 years now). In addition, the tour participants can get first-hand tips on the …

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by annaczuczor
magyar vándor barcelona

Interjú a Magyar Vándorral, Barcelónából

For the English version please click here. A Barcelonába látogatóknak lehetősége nyílik a “Magyar Vándor Barcelona” által vezetett magyar nyelvű túrákkal a város rejtélyeit felfedezni, a nem mindenki által ismert szűk sikátorokba betekinteni. Az élményt gazdagítják a város egyetlen idegenvezetői engedéllyel rendelkező magyar túravezető, Dani (aki immár 18 éve él a katalán fővárosban) szenvedéllyel teli történetei és legendái. Ráadásként első kézből tippet kaphatnak a túrán résztvevők az ott élők közkedvelt éttermeiről, kávézóiról, bárjairól, ezáltal ott tartózkodásuk alatt ők is részesei lehetnek a színes katalán kultúrának. “Készen állsz a világod megváltoztatására? Mert a Magyar Vándor Barcelona több mint egy egyszerű gyalogos …

Continue reading “Interjú a Magyar Vándorral, Barcelónából”

by annaczuczor
B-SIDES, YOUR CREATIVE TRAVEL AGENCY:
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Have you ever heard of #TAÜLL in #VallDeBoí? Most likely yes, as this mountain village is always nominated as one of the most beautiful ones in #Catalonia. It is definitely the main spot if you are visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Catalan Romanesque Churches in Vall de Boí. Taüll is a real gem. It has been widened, it has been spoiled, but it is still the best town in the valley. Taüll has two churches on the World Heritage List of UNESCO and probably the most famous and the most beautiful one is the church of Sant Climent. You have plenty of options to eat, drink and stay in the village. We recommend booking in advance though since it can be quite busy in some periods of the year. The church of Santa Maria was consecrated just one day after the church of Sant Climent (12th century). The lords of Erill provided the funds to build both of them. This is the only church in the valley that seems to have been built in the middle of a medieval village. Even though the village of #TAÜLL can seem sometimes overcrowded by tourists and visitors, you will find some quiet corners where to rest calm and enjoy the landscape. Are you convinced? Not yet? Then you should read our full review about Vall de Boí on Besides the Obvious: https://besidestheobvious.net/2021/04/13/vall-de-boi-the-route-of-the-unesco-world-heritage-catalan-romanesque-churches/
TAÜLL in 2 minutes
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How is it using an #ElectricScooter on Delta del Ebro? 🛴 Very easy, the only thing you need to keep in mind is the duration of your battery! #RiceWithWhat? Read our article, including #DeltaDelEbro on the blog: https://besidestheobvious.net/2020/08/11/rice-with-what-on-the-route-of-spanish-rice-dishes/
DELTA DEL EBRO on electric scooter
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Looking for a refreshing destination? #Camprodon in #Ripolles county is waiting for you! Getting lost in the #Pyrenees is never a bad plan especially if you know what to do in Camprodon. This old town dates from the early 12th century. The town became a popular holiday destination for industrials and wealthy people from Barcelona, partially thanks to the influence of Doctor Robert, an important polemic doctor, and politician, who recommended Camprodon as a perfect destination to help to heal some diseases. The best to do in Camprodon is simply getting lost around in the streets of its old center, many of them still with traces of the old medieval stones, present in every corner. Strolling you can cross the bridges and admire Camprodon from the other side. If you are a gourmet, Camprodon is also your place, since you could enjoy the local gastronomy at any of the many restaurants around. Or just simply stroll on #Valencia Street to catch up with any of the shops where you can buy local sausages. Moreover, if you prefer the sweets you can go to the famous old Birba Biscuit Factory or just buy and taste this classic biscuit in any shop. Are you convinced? Not yet? Then you should read our full review about Camprodon on Besidestheobvious.net.
CAMPRODON in 2 minutes
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👉 Visit the website of Celler Mas Vicenç: https://masvicens.com/ 👉 Check out our interview with Vicenç Ferré, president of Denomination of Origin - DO Tarragona: https://besidestheobvious.net/travel-tips/interviews-the-voice-of-locals/
Visiting Celler Mas Vicenç
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Have you ever heard of the village of #Renau? Just dedicate this 1 minute, so we can present to you one of the main reasons why to visit. Josep Maria Jujol designed many small churches, sanctuaries, theaters, and even homes throughout the Camp de Tarragona region. Among the less known ones, we can list the chapel of Renau, inaugurated in the year 1926. As a common pattern, #Jujol - who was originally from this province was invited by the local inhabitants to help to redesign and partially rebuild the church of Renau. Inside we can recognize all the typical “Jujolian” colors, the blue representing the sea, the gold is for the sun and the Bordeaux color is for the love. Are you convinced? Not yet? Then you should read our full review about the Renau on Besidestheobvious.net.
Mare de Déu de Loreto Hermitage – RENAU in 1 minute
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How about a long weekend in #Ripoll? The next two minutes will convince you immediately! Santa Maria de Ripoll is one of the most beautiful Romanesque buildings in #Catalonia. It has three main points to visit: The Romanesque gate, the basilica, and the cloister. The main feature of the monastery is its Romanesque front façade dating from the 12th century, which is divided into seven horizontal strips. The Benedictine monastery was founded by Count Wilfred "The Hairy" in the 9th century. It soon became a major cultural center during the High Middle Ages, which is why it continued to be extended up until the 12th century when it ended up more or less as it looks today. The center has an interactive exhibition that explains the historical, cultural, and religious relevance of this cradle of Catalonia. And don’t forget to look for the cloister and wandering around, unforgettable experience! The Centre of Ripoll is a bunch of nice streets with old buildings, hidden squares, some terraces, and shops. Not to mention the Ruta del Ferro, the green path on which you can easily bike around Ripoll and its surrounding villages or use your electric scooter. Are you convinced? Not yet? Then you should read our full review about the Ripoll Church on Besidestheobvious.net. Complete article about Ripoll: https://besidestheobvious.net/2021/03/24/what-to-do-in-ripoll-the-cradle-of-catalonia/
RIPOLL in 2 minutes
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Have you ever been to the modernist church of #Vistabella? Just dedicate 1 minute to its beauty and you will understand why we recommend it. The church of the Sacred Heart is a modernist church in the village of Vistabella, in #Tarragona province. This modernist church of Vistabella was declared a Cultural Asset of National Interest by agreement of the government in 2011. A protective environment was also delimited to ensure the correct visualization of the monument. The church was built in 1923 by the modernist architect #JosepMariaJujol. The work was constructed by the inhabitants of the village and it was inaugurated in 1923. The paintings in the apse were destroyed during the Spanish Civil War and repainted by Josep Maria Jujol's daughter. Are you convinced? Not yet? Then you should read our full review about the Modernist Church of Vistabella on Besidestheobvious.net!
THE MODERNIST CHURCH OF VISTABELLA in 1 minute
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Have you ever heard about the #Sanctuary of #Montferri? Just give us 2 minutes to convince you to put it on your bucket list. The Sanctuary of Montferri or as it is officially called the “Our Lady of Montserrat Sanctuary” is one of the most representative works in the Alt Camp region in Catalonia by #JosepMariaJujol. Daniel Vives, born in the village of Montferri, came up with the idea of building a sanctuary on one of the hills in the village that belonged to his family. Vives was a distant relative of the architect Josep Maria Jujol, #AntoniGaudí’s collaborator, and commissioned him to design the sanctuary. In 1925, the first stone of the sanctuary was laid. The whole village of Montferri collaborated in the construction, but it was not completed until 1999. The structure features 120 arches and is shaped like a ship with its bow facing towards the mountain range of Montserrat, the iconic mountain that houses the famous statue of the Virgin of Montserrat, to whom the Montferri church is dedicated. It is full of “Jujolian” details to be discovered following the outline and originality that characterized the architect Josep Maria Jujol. Before the pandemic, around 18,000 tourists visited the sanctuary annually and the council had begun to introduce guided tours that included wine and beer tastings from local producers. But luckily, at the beginning of the year 2021, the Sanctuary of Montferri reopened its gates to the visitors! Are you convinced? Not yet? Then you should read our full review about the Sanctuary of Montferri on Besidestheobvious.net: https://besidestheobvious.net/2021/03/23/the-sanctuary-of-montferri-one-of-the-wonders-by-josep-maria-jujol/
THE SANCTUARY OF MONTFERRI in 2 minutes
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Have you ever been to Roda de Berá? Not yet? Here is your chance, in these 2 minutes we will show you around! Our first stop in the village is the famous Roman arch, Arc de Berá, built during the 1st Century. This is probably the most seen Roman monument but one of the less visited. It is one of the prides of the village. El Roc de Sant Gaietà was built between 1964 and 1972. A Spanish-Belgian company bought several estates to build the urbanization with the idea of building a fishing village on the rocks. But very special ones, with Andalusian courtyards and Romanesque, Arabic, and Gothic ornaments. In the sixties and seventies, this kind of ideal imitation of traditional patterns was very appreciated. There are beautiful small squares around and awesome mysterious corners. The Radio Museum of “Luis del Olmo” consists of more than 500 devices of different styles and periods from 1820 to the present. All the devices belong to the private collection of Luis del Olmo, pieces that the journalist has given to the City Council for the creation of this museum. Not to mention all the beautiful bays and beaches around and the uncountable number of yachts and sailing boats in the harbor of Roda de Bera. Are you convinced? Not yet? Then you should read our full review about Roda de Berá on Besidestheobvious.net. 👉 More about El Roc de Sant Gaietá: https://besidestheobvious.net/2021/03/03/el-roc-de-sant-gaieta-vuelta-a-espana-a-spanish-tour-part-xiv/ 👉 More about the Roman Heritage: https://besidestheobvious.net/2021/02/25/tarraco-romana-ii-a-roman-heritage-route-in-tarragona-province/
RODA DE BERÁ in 2 minutes
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Are you hesitating about spending your next vacation in Salou? Give us only 2 minutes to convince you to book your tickets immediately. Let’s start with a bit of history. The archbishop of Tarragona ordered the construction of the defense tower of Torre Vella in 1530 to protect the population from the pirates that constantly invaded the Port of Salou. The Church of Santa María del Mar was built in 1766, consisting of a church and a single bell. It was extended in the early 20th century to its present form. The popularity of Salou is largely built on its superb beaches. The coastline of Salou enjoys eight main beaches, each with fine golden sand and inviting shallow waters due to the long beach and slow tide. The paseo maritimo guides us to the beautiful building of Xalet Bonet. What a pleasing symmetry and look at those vivid colors! Sea breeze surrounds us as we walk along the path Cami de Ronda, which goes around the lighthouse of Salou. It opened in April 1858, and it has a red main tower that still lightens the gulf of San Jordi in Costa Daurada nowadays. Are you convinced? Not yet? Then you should read our full review about Salou on Besides the obvious.net. https://besidestheobvious.net/
SALOU in 2 minutes
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Read our complete article about Altafulla here: https://besidestheobvious.net/2020/05/19/altafulla-the-town-of-thousand-magic-gates-on-costa-daurada-in-catalonia-spain/ Are you ready to spend the next 2 minutes admiring the beauty of Altafulla? Well, Altafulla is mainly known because of its beach. Costa Daurada itself is famous for the sandy coastline and lovely beaches, but this territory is much more than that. There are a lot of interesting spots among its historic villages and towns. Altafulla is a very good example of that. Just walking around its streets you will catch up with one of the secrets of the town: its entrance gates. There are many all-around in different shapes and patterns with date inscriptions on the upper part of their arches. Many of them date from the 18th Century and allow the visitor to observe the architecture evolution throughout that century and overall along with history. Altafulla Centre – where most of the local inhabitants live – is quite unknown for massive tourism (fortunately). But anyhow it is a heritage treasure. The origin of the town is medieval and its castle – even remodeled – is a good testimony of that time and you can admire it from many points as a part of the town’s skyline. The Castellers monument is located in one of the corners of Placa del Pou and was inaugurated in 1989. The entire monument with its eight pillars is made of baked clay. Are you convinced? Not yet? Then you should read our full review about Altafulla on Besides the obvious.net. https://besidestheobvious.net/
ALTAFULLA in 2 minutes
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During these 2 minutes, we will guarantee that you will fall in love with #Torredembarra. Let us guide you now virtually in the town located in the heart of Costa Daurada. The old town has a distinctly medieval feel, and the roots date back to the Romans, as does most of the province of Tarragona. Charming cobbled streets, a castle, churches, and an old tower set quite a nostalgic scene. You can walk around comfortably in the old quarter in a couple of hours while admiring the beautiful, colorful houses. But don’t forget to take a look inside and admire the very well-conserved patios. Of the original wall which completely surrounded the town during the 17th century, two entrances still remain. The Padrines gate and the La Bassa gate. The San Pere church can be found in the heart of the old town. The construction was completed in 1680 to connect this church to the original one, making it one single structure. Ah and look at the oldest building in Torredembarra, Torre de la Vila! It can be found right in front of San Pere church. It dates from around the 12th century. Just right next to the Torre you can find the town’s best wine seller, Cal Serafi. Don’t forget to jump in and check their outstanding wine, vermouth, and cava selections! The Icart Castle is easily accessible via the Pandrines gate. Currently the headquarters of the town council. The intention of the castle was to act as a fortress and residence. The building is laid out in a square with a tower on each side. Of course, a visit to Torredembarra cannot be complete without going to its neverending sandy beach and admiring the fishermen's boats and the waves of the turquoise Mediterranean sea. Torredembarra also has a rich maritime heritage. And the Far is not far either. The lighthouse of Torredembarra is one of the highest towers in Catalonia. It rises 38 meters high and provides us with an outstanding panorama on the near bays. Oh and not to forget the castle and church of Clara neighborhood. The parish church of Sant Joan de Clarà, documented since the 13th century! Are you convinced? Not yet? Then you should read our full review about Torredembarra on https://besidestheobvious.net/
TORREDEMBARRA in 2 minutes
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Have you ever been to #Tarragona? Oh, not yet? Let us guide you now virtually, but be prepared, by the end of this video you cannot resist booking a trip to Tarragona! This port city is located in northeast #Spain on the Costa Daurada by the #Mediterranean Sea. Tarragona, or as it was called #Tarraco was founded in the 5th century before Christ, and currently, it is the capital of the Province of Tarragona and part of #Catalonia. The ancient #Roman walls are surrounding the old district and still, today are part of the local houses. The historic centers of cities are often the most interesting areas to go and Tarragona could not be otherwise. Located in the upper part of the city, the Old Town is a maze of narrow and short streets full of old buildings with a very charming and romantic vibe and definitely an unmissable spot on any visit to the capital of the province. Just look at those orange trees and what is hiding behind them, the Tarragona Cathedral. The #Cathedral Square and its surrounding streets are the epicenter of the #medieval quarter in Tarragona old city. Not to mention Carrer de Comte with all the colorful pilons. And the number of small bars, restaurants, and cafes serving tapas, local seafood, and Catalan dishes. Ohh, and how about a #vermut nearby the 2000 years old ancient walls? More into history? Just check out the breathtaking view of the roman #Amphiteatre. Are you convinced? Not yet? Then you should read our full review! https://besidestheobvious.net/
TARRAGONA in 2 minutes
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How to prepare the tasty #Hungarian #Pogácsa? Here comes the #recipe 👉 https://besidestheobvious.net/2021/02/06/pogacsa-the-hungarian-cheese-biscuit/
Pogácsa, the Hungarian cheese biscuit
YouTube Video VVV3ZlJ2SVdlbnFhVGg3Tmo3MTJEUWJ3LmFSXzFmc1VqbVZv
To #RodaDeBera with love 💕 👉 https://besidestheobvious.net/2021/02/03/lets-get-lost-in-catalonia-the-10-most-beautiful-villages-of-costa-daurada-part-iii/ Roda de Berà has a very special place in our heart since Besides the Obvious is based here for almost a year. During this time, and especially during the pandemic we had a lot of time to discover this picturesque village, and by now we know almost every corner of it. The village is situated on the coast and the ancient roman Via Augusta ran through the municipality, and a triumphal arch – Arc de Berà – survived in the middle of the present N-340 coast road. This monument is part of the Archaeological Ensemble of Tarraco, which was added to UNESCO‘s list of World Heritage Sites in 2000. Its name derives from the count Berà. It is a triumphal arch with a single opening consisting of a central body on a podium, decorated with fluted pilasters crowned by Corinthian capitals. The monument was built as a result of the will of Lucius Licinius Sura and it was erected in the reign of Augustus, around 13 BCE. It is thought it was dedicated to Augustus or to his genius, and that it marked the limit of the district of Tarraco.
Roda de Berà
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Have you ever been dreaming to go to #Açores? Read our complete article about São Miguel island here 👉 https://besidestheobvious.net/2020/01/24/one-week-on-the-green-island-sao-miguel-acores/
São Miguel, Açores – 7 reasons to go…
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How to prepare the famous #Hungarian recipe, #RakottKrumpli in Spain? Where can we find the right ingredients? Check this out! 👉 https://besidestheobvious.net/2021/01/31/rakott-krumpli-hungarian-layered-potatoes/
Rakott krumpli – Hungarian layered potatoes
YouTube Video VVV3ZlJ2SVdlbnFhVGg3Tmo3MTJEUWJ3Llh5V2VtWXp5dFlJ
💙 One of the most emblematic representations of #Porto’s history and culture are those beautiful tiles we see all over the city which are known as #azulejos. They come in different colors, but most commonly, they are in white and blue.🤍 Read more about Porto here 👉 https://besidestheobvious.net/2020/02/05/porto-for-beginners/ 🤍💙 #Porto #Oporto #Patterns #Azulejos
Porto Patterns #Azulejos
YouTube Video VVV3ZlJ2SVdlbnFhVGg3Tmo3MTJEUWJ3LlE5VkU4WkVzb3BJ
Rice with what? 😋 Check out our #Paella tour around #Spain and #Catalonia! 👉 https://besidestheobvious.net/2020/08/11/rice-with-what-on-the-route-of-spanish-rice-dishes/
Rice with what? #Paella
YouTube Video VVV3ZlJ2SVdlbnFhVGg3Tmo3MTJEUWJ3LmVaMXFQWTdyUFFZ
Memories from #Fuerteventura 👉 https://besidestheobvious.net/2020/10/14/vuelta-a-fuerteventura-top-20-spots-to-make-the-perfect-roundtrip-around-this-canary-island/ We review the following places: #Corralejo - https://besidestheobvious.net/2020/10/10/corralejo-the-northern-star-of-fuerteventura-7-things-to-do-within-a-4-day-long-visit/ #Ajuy - https://besidestheobvious.net/2020/10/11/ajuy-the-hidden-gem-of-the-wild-west-coast-of-fuerteventura/ #Cofete - https://besidestheobvious.net/2020/10/15/jandia-peninsula-the-wild-welcoming-south-on-fuerteventura-island/ #ElCotillo - https://besidestheobvious.net/2020/10/14/vuelta-a-fuerteventura-top-20-spots-to-make-the-perfect-roundtrip-around-this-canary-island/ Enjoy 😉
Memories from Fuerteventura
YouTube Video VVV3ZlJ2SVdlbnFhVGg3Tmo3MTJEUWJ3LjFUREhfdFNkU1ZR

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