Guide to La Bisbal D'emporda

Relaxing, restful and ravishingly eye-catching, La Bisbal d'Emporda is the perfect getaway if you want to see rural Spain up close and personal. Sitting inland from Catalonia's Costa Brava coast, undulating vineyards and sun-dappled woodlands surround this picturesque spot – a sight that'll whip your breath away. Set on the banks of a tranquil river, this vibrant town is famous for its ceramics, which have been a speciality here since the 17th century. Stroll along the elegant streets and you'll see why. Shop fronts crammed full of pottery pieces splash the town in every colour of the rainbow. You can really throw yourself into Catalan life here, popping your head into one-off shops selling brightly painted pictures or chatting to the friendly locals at the bakery. This charismatic town really comes to life at the Friday market though, when charmingly chaotic stalls spill onto the streets. Zip your way in and out of stands selling anything from local olive oil and honey to clothes and household goods. Perhaps you want to bring some of the history here to life. Why not trace the evolution of the pottery tradition at the Terracotta-Pottery Museum of La Bisbal, where you can see some beautiful examples? Or wind your way through the faded lanes of the old Jewish quarter, where you'll come across a magnificent medieval castle. Resembling a giant sandcastle, this 11th century wonder is one of the most important examples of the Catalan Romanesque style. If all that's worked up an appetite, grab yourself a seat at one of the enticing eateries dotted about, where you can tuck into lip-smacking regional delights. And don't forget, the glittering Mediterranean is a mere 15 minutes away with captivating coves such as Aigua Blava, Aigua Xelida and Tamariu as well as the sweeping sands of Pals.

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