SeaDream I - May 10, 2025

Barcelona is the cultural heartland of Spain, yet its first language is Catalan, the native tongue of the proudly independent Catalonia region. Stroll down the shady, tree-lined Ramblas between street musicians and elegant bistros. Then perhaps visit the venerable Gothic cathedral, Picasso Museum or enjoy the architectural genius of Antonio Gaudi's Church of the Holy Family.

Though the scenery is strikingly dramatic, below the rugged headlands and rocky promontories you'll find quiet, beach-bordered bays rimmed by pine woodlands. Palamos is the southernmost of a series of small isolated ports that cling like oysters to tiny harbours set along Catalunya's northern coast. It sits on a high rock over the harbor, a favorite destination for yachts that vie for space with local fishing boats.

Fronted by the azure Mediterranean Sea and buttressed by the Pyrenees Mountains, Collioure is a delightful French resort town. It boasts mild winters and long, sunny summers that make it a lovely year-round destination. Feast on the local cuisine, which is enhanced by Collioure's proximity to Spain.

Callis is a dazzling seaside resort town, perched atop the cliffs of Cap Canaille. Visitors can soak up the sunshine as they explore the elegant boutiques and restaurants surrounding the lovely old fishing port. Experience the surf and sands of Grande Mer Beach, take in the sights of the Lombard Promenade, or follow the calanque inlets, which reach all the way into Marseilles.

A pretty town along the Provencal coast, Sanary offers a charming seafront ambience, and interesting streets to wander. Stop off in a cafe and enjoy excellent rose from nearby region Bandol.

Nice, the pearl of the French Riviera, is a busy commercial city and the capital of the Alpes Maritimes department. Nonetheless, beauty, a fine climate and affable citizens keep its charm and year around appeal intact. The cuisine, like the city, is cosmopolitan, Mediterranean and delightful.