After more than a year of pandemic living, things finally seem to be returning to normal. And nothing has prompted this feeling more than our recent move back to Spain. Many of you already know that I split my time between Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and Granada, Spain. It’s always quite a culture shock. I’ve put together a few pics to show you what it’s like and to introduce you to the ancient city that’s become my second home.
The Adventure Begins
We kicked off our trip in Girona—a beautiful city about an hour by train from Barcelona. It’s home to many of the world’s professional road bikers and the riding is second to none.
This shot of the Onyar River is one of the classic street scenes of Girona.
Plaza de la Independencia is one of my favorite spots to have a drink and watch people stroll by.
This is the view from the imposing Girona Cathedral, which is tucked into the twisting streets of old town. The church appeared in Season 6 of Game of Thrones.
The Countryside
The region surrounding Girona has a lot of medieval villages that make for a fun day of exploring. I like to fantasize about what it’d be like to restore a house from the 1600s, but I’m still stinging from my experience restoring a 100 year old row house in Baltimore when I first got out of college.
The most interesting way to enter Rupit, a small medieval village, is via a rickety suspension bridge.
This is the tiny village of Santa Pau that’s located in a volcanic region of Catalonia.
Cosmopolitan Barcelona
Barcelona is one of my favorite cities in the world. If you haven’t been to Spain yet, this is a great place to start.
This is a typical street scene from the Born district. It’s an area with lots of working artists, narrow streets, and small, inviting plazas.
Plaza Real, surrounded by grand buildings and palm trees, feels like an oasis when you stumble into it after wandering around a maze of narrow streets.
The Food Scene
Catalonia is a region for foodies. You’ll find markets bursting with locally sourced meats and produce, some of the best restaurants in the world, and, as always, fantastic wine.
The food is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Our first dinner out to celebrate the partial return to normal life. This is Massana, a Michelin 1-star restaurant in Girona.
Granada Bound
After spending a few weeks in Girona, we rented the largest van we could find, unloaded our storage unit, and set out on a coastal road for Granada. En route, we stopped in one of Spain’s many wine regions for the night. Absolutely stunning.
Hotel Entreviñas at Bodegas Nodus.
I always know we’re almost home when the endless olive groves start. Andalucía, the region where Granada is located, produces more olives than anywhere else in the country. Maybe even the world.
Home Again
Back in Granada! We’ve missed our favorite Spanish city and it feels good to finally return. We’re still getting settled, catching up with friends, and walking around the streets of the historic Albayzín to see what’s changed in the two years we’ve been gone.
We live in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is a typical scene from our neighborhood where there are views of the Alhambra from the maze of streets that wind through the barrio.
Architecture, music, culture, and food are a blend of North African and European influences.
Getting a peek behind the tall white walls of Albayzín properties is always a treat.
Paella: One of my favorite Spanish meals!