Catanunya (Catalonia)
An autonomous region of Spain
Catanunya – more commonly known as Catalonia, is one of the most beautiful regions in Spain
and it is a popular tourist area, especially for sunbathers. The beaches at Costa Brava are
fabulous!
Not only is this area known for the beaches, but there is lots of culture, history, and many sights
to see. The Catalonia region stretches over a large area and has some of the most spectacular
scenery – from dramatic mountain peaks, to beautiful isolated coves, and kilometres of
coastline and beaches.
Costa Brava is one of many areas that are in Catalonia. Before 1950 when the tourists started
to frequent the area, Costa Brava was recognized as a fully functioning fishing village. These
days, it is regarded as one of the best tourist resort areas in Spain. It is perfect for those
who enjoy the pleasures of beaches alongside the Mediterranean Sea, historic towns, and
ancient Greek ruins that are within a walking distance of the village. There is also the beauty
of the Pyrenees Mountains that make for a very interesting backdrop to the coastline of the
Mediterranean Sea. The combination of the mountains and coastline produce many steep rocky
coves and craggy inlets. There are quite a few very enchanting sandy beaches that are hidden
and private.
Costa Dorada is a little further south than Costa Brava. It offers sandy beaches on more or less
flat land. It is popular with tourists that enjoy playing volleyball, waterskiing, and relaxing. This
region boasts one of the hottest nightlife in Spain.
Catalan Pyrenees is perfect for the outdoorsy types with its fantastic skiing, great hiking,
paragliding, windsurfing, mountain biking, climbing, and of course – the gorgeous views. It has
long been a favorite vacation spot for the Spanish Royal family for many years. There is even a
man-made lake for boating, rafting, canoeing, sailing, and just plain relaxing.
The Climate
The entire Catalonia region of Spain features a predominantly Mediterranean climate with hot,
dry summers along with refreshing sea breezes. The temperature range is 26 to 31 degrees
Celsius during the summer months.
The Pyrenees Mountains have a typically mountainous climate. The winters are cool or cold.
The mountain ranges get quite a bit of snow, and the lower altitudes get the occasional snowy
day.
The rainy season tends to be during the spring and fall months. More rain falls in this region
than in the south but these rains outcome of the rains is a rich, green countryside.
The climate is near perfect for the many wine producers in the region.
The Language
Within the Catalonia region, the primary languages are Catalan and Spanish. The immigration of
other nationalities during the twenty-first century brought a number of other dialects to Spain.
In Catalunya is Catalan the official language, and spoken between locals. Official Governmental
papers are written in Catalan, but on request a translation to Spanish is available.
These days, there is a significant amount foreign languages spoken however Catalan remains as
the primary.
The Catalonia region offers something for everyone, from the beach lover to the mountain
climber. And it’s all within one treasured region of Spain.