Escape with Imogene Barron to Spain

Barcelona 

I lived in Barcelona for a year and it’s hands down one of the best cities in the world, so this one’s hard! my perfect day would be to head to the local Merkat de la Boqueria for lunch, majority of the restaurants there are amazing depending on what you fancy, Pinotxo Bar is a personal fave! After lunch, I would wander around the Gothic Quarter exploring the architecture and get lost in the laneways, then head over for an afternoon swim at Platja de la Mar Bella, It’s clothing optional, and the best people watching EVER! Xemei a Venetian restaurant for dinner then onto Bar Brutal for a nightcap, they are owned by the same people and have the most incredible wine list, if you have more than a few days in Barcelona I would highly suggest doing a day trip up to Costa Brava, Platja Boadella and Cala Pedrosa are two beaches I love, more of a local vibe less touristic. 

For accommodation in Barcelona, if my friends weren’t at my casa, they stay at Hotel 1898 just off La Rambla in the centre, air b n b is best for accomadation in Costa Brava, however a day trip is completely doable and best to rent a car to head up the coast. 

I have stayed all around the island, there are great air b n b’s, I was lucky enough to stay at my dear friend Kate’s house, which has the most spectacular views over Deià, there are also some great boutique hotels around the island too, I would move around a little if you have the time, the village of Santanyi is cute, there are some amazing beaches in that zone- Cala Llombards and Caló d'es Moro, however I prefer the Northwest coast of the island, Deià, Port de Valldemossa, take a boat from Port De Sóller to Cala Tuent and have a late boozy lunch at Restaurante Es Vergeret, they do an incredible Pealla, spend the afternoon exploring the coastline and pulling into a bay to snorkel, swim and watch the sunset.

Stock up on snack supplies, vino and charcuterie, and head out with Captain Vincent the boat man (DM me and I’ll give you his details) he has the most beautiful sailing boat on the island and knows the best local spots to anchor, swim and explore.

To stay, air B&B, there are some amazing villas on the island, however a day trip from Ibiza is always an option and Vincent can do a round trip from Ibiza. 

I’ve only ever stayed at Pikes (the best Hotel in the world) I would live there for a month every Summer if I could. I always make sure to get at least a week in there each season. You can basically just never leave the hotel and have the best time ever, it’s hedonism in it’s most pure form and filled with absolute freaks of the very best kind. However for a day of adventuring, I would first off head to Can Pilot, a local amazing authentic restaurant specializing in grilled meats, then head down to Flat Rocks for a swim, La Torre for sunset drinks and back to Pikes to boogie into the early hours!