Spain. Barcelona
The most interesting locations in the city for me were the Gothic Quarter, the seashore, the Sagrada Família, and, of course, Park Güell. I prioritized my plan to stay in Barcelona after completing the Trans-Pyrenees hike accordingly. Staying in the very center of the old city allowed me to wander the magical Gothic Quarter's night streets late into the evening. Thanks to my hostel's great location, I would run past the ancient buildings of the center during my morning jog before breakfast, continuing along the sea within ten minutes. My day was dedicated to exploring Gaudí's architectural works and relaxing on the beach.
With all due respect to Gaudí, the most interesting part is being in the Gothic Quarter. Here is where you find the elusive spirit of the city, amidst narrow chaotic streets and huge medieval buildings...
At night, magical things happen in this area. I experienced the magic of music at a performance held in a small square near the cathedral. A young man around 30, singing opera hits and old Spanish songs, was accompanied by music he played from his smartphone connected to a speaker. He did it so magically that he drew others into his "game." Many people gathered around him, either singing along or simply enchanted by the atmosphere. Eventually, another listener, with a professional opera voice, started singing along and later came forward to perform Figaro's part solo. Over two hours of this crazy "flash mob" seemed to unite everyone in a single flow. When well-known old Spanish songs were performed and half the square sang along, I felt like a Spaniard myself, briefly touching the depth of their soul...
On the way to the Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló and Casa Milà, Gaudí's creations, stand out brightly among ordinary buildings...
The beach in Barcelona was perhaps the main highlight of my stay. Unlike the town of Hendaye, located on the Atlantic Ocean coast where my Trans-Pyrenean route ended, relaxing by the Mediterranean Sea was much more comfortable. There are no wild tides like on the ocean coast, and you don't need to walk over 100 meters from your belongings on the shore to reach the ocean water every morning. Plus, the sea is much warmer...
On the morning of the second day, I chose the direction of Park Güell for my morning run. From the Gothic Quarter, where my hostel was located, it's about 5 kilometers to Park Güell. In summer, the park's paid zone opens at 8:00 AM, but if you arrive earlier, you can stay in this zone for free, and avoid the large number of tourists who fill the park during the day. I arrived at the park around 7:15 AM, and the sun was already sufficiently illuminating the panoramic views of Barcelona and Gaudí's original architectural creations...
Thus, my recovery after the twenty-day hike through the Pyrenees took place in Barcelona. I've always wanted to combine mountains and the sea in one trip...
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