Our family holiday to Malgrat de Mar and Barcelona was a blend of relaxation, cultural exploration, and historical discovery. We spent our days basking in the sun on beautiful beaches, exploring charming parks, and delving into the heart of Catalonia’s bustling cities. Each day brought new adventures, from discovering ancient castles and riding funiculars to breathtaking views, or simply enjoying time by the pool. Join us as we recount a week filled with unforgettable moments and family fun in the sun-soaked regions of Spain.

Our journey began on Sunday, the 25th of August, when we headed to Gatwick Airport. Opting for convenience, we stayed overnight at a Travelodge just outside the airport, ensuring that we were well-rested for our early morning flight. We were buzzing with excitement as we boarded our flight to Barcelona, the starting point of our family adventure. The short flight was smooth, and the children were thrilled as we descended over the Mediterranean coastline, with the promise of sunny days ahead (at last)

Upon landing in Barcelona, our adventure took an unexpected turn. Our airport transfer to Malgrat de Mar was delayed by an hour, which initially dampened our spirits. The delay stretched our patience, especially with the kids in tow, but we managed to keep everyone entertained with games and snacks. Finally, our transfer arrived, and we began our journey to the coastal town. However, as if to add a touch of drama to our day, our driver collided with another car halfway through the trip. Thankfully, no one was injured, and after a brief stop to assess the situation, we continued our journey. Despite the setbacks, we arrived at our hotel in Malgrat de Mar exhausted but just in time for dinner.

After checking in and settling into our rooms, we unpacked, freshened up, and made our way to the hotel restaurant. The meal was fairly decent and we all had something to eat, though vegetarian options were lacking. With full bellies, we retired to our rooms, eager for the adventures that awaited us in the days to come.

Day 1: Parc Francesc Macià:
Our first full day in Malgrat de Mar was dedicated to discovering the local charm, starting with a visit to Parc Francesc Macià. This whimsical park quickly became a highlight of our trip, particularly for the children. The park is a sprawling wonderland filled with imaginative playgrounds, towering sculptures, and creative installations that sparked our children’s imaginations from the moment we arrived.

As we wandered through the park, we were delighted by the oversized sculptures that dotted the landscape. From giant shoes to enormous storybook characters, every corner of the park seemed designed to inspire wonder. The children couldn’t get enough of the various slides and climbing frames, each one more inventive than the last. We spent a good portion of the morning exploring every nook and cranny, allowing the kids to burn off some energy while we relaxed and soaked in the lively atmosphere.

The park’s charm was further enhanced by the remnants of a recent local festival. Colourful decorations still hung from trees and lampposts, adding a festive touch to the already vibrant surroundings. We later learned that the town had been celebrating an annual festival just before our arrival, which explained the joyful energy that seemed to permeate the park. The combination of the park’s unique design and the lingering festive spirit made it a perfect introduction to Malgrat de Mar’s local culture.

Malgrat de Mar Beach:
Later that afternoon, we made our way to Malgrat de Mar’s stunning beach. The coastline was everything we had hoped for—golden sands stretching as far as the eye could see, and the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean gently lapping at the shore. The beach was relatively quiet, which allowed us to find a perfect spot to set up for the day.

The children were immediately drawn to the water, and it wasn’t long before they were splashing around in the gentle waves. The beach’s shallow waters made it an ideal place for the kids to play safely, and we felt at ease as they enjoyed themselves. Meanwhile, we stretched out on the soft sand, basking in the warmth of the sun. The sky was a bit overcast at first, casting a soft, diffused light over the scene, but as the day progressed, the clouds parted to reveal a brilliant blue sky.

We spent several blissful hours on the beach, alternating between swimming, building sandcastles, and simply relaxing. The beach was well-maintained, with clean sand and plenty of space for families to spread out. It was the perfect way to unwind after the previous day’s travel, and the children’s laughter was a constant reminder of the joy that comes with being by the sea.

As the afternoon sun began to dip lower in the sky, we packed up our belongings and slowly made our way back to the hotel. The day had been a perfect mix of activity and relaxation, and we were all looking forward to the adventures that the rest of the week would bring.

Day 2: Pool Day and Evening Stroll:
On Tuesday, we decided to take things at a slower pace, opting for a relaxed day by the hotel pool. After the excitement of exploring the town and beach the day before, a pool day was just what we needed to recharge. The pool area was spacious and inviting, with plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas to provide shade. The water was cool and refreshing, offering a welcome respite from the heat of the sun.

The kids, of course, were thrilled to spend the day in the water. They splashed and played with their pool toys, racing each other from one end of the pool to the other. We joined in on the fun, taking turns swimming and lounging by the poolside. There’s something wonderfully indulgent about spending the day poolside, with nothing on the agenda except relaxation and family time.

As the afternoon stretched on, we took a break from the pool to enjoy a leisurely lunch at the hotel’s poolside café. The menu offered a variety of light bites, from fresh salads to sandwiches, which were perfect for a midday meal. We ate slowly, savouring both the food and the chance to simply sit and chat together.

Later in the evening, after a day of sun and swimming, we decided to take a stroll through Malgrat de Mar. The town’s streets were charming, lined with a mix of traditional and modern shops, cafés, and restaurants. As we wandered, we noticed how the town came alive in the evenings, with locals and visitors alike enjoying the cooler temperatures and relaxed atmosphere.

We meandered through the narrow lanes, stopping to browse in small boutiques and sample local treats from street vendors. The town’s relaxed vibe made it easy to unwind, and we felt completely at ease as we explored. By the time we returned to the hotel, the children were happily exhausted, and we all settled in for a good night’s sleep.

Day 3 Exploring Barcelona:
Wednesday was one of the highlights of our trip as we embarked on a day trip to Barcelona. We caught an early train from Malgrat de Mar, and the journey into the city was smooth and scenic. The excitement in the air was palpable as we arrived in Barcelona, ready to explore one of Europe’s most iconic cities.

Our first stop was the famous Blue Route of Barcelona’s open-top bus tour. The kids were thrilled to ride on the upper deck, and the breeze as we drove through the city was a welcome relief from the heat. The Blue Route is an excellent way to see many of Barcelona’s most famous landmarks, and we were eager to take it all in.

Our first major sight was the Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece. Even from the outside, the basilica is breathtaking, with its towering spires and intricate façades. We spent some time admiring the exterior, and the children were particularly fascinated by the detailed sculptures that adorned the building. Although we didn’t have time to tour the interior, we made a note to return in the future for a more in-depth visit.

Next, the bus took us to Park Güell, another of Gaudí’s masterpieces. The park is a riot of colour and whimsical design, with mosaics, twisted iron gates, and undulating forms that seem to come straight out of a fairy tale. While we didn’t explore the park on foot this time, we enjoyed the views from the bus and promised the kids that we’d return on our next visit to fully explore the park’s wonders.

Our next stop was Montjuïc, where we disembarked to take the Montjuïc Cable Car. This was a highlight for the children, who were excited to see the city from above. The cable car ride took us up to Montjuïc Hill, where we were greeted with stunning panoramic views of Barcelona and the Mediterranean Sea. At the top, we explored Montjuïc Castle, a historic fortress that offered even more incredible views and a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. The children loved running around the spacious courtyards, and we took plenty of photos to capture the moment.

After descending from Montjuïc, we rejoined the bus tour and headed to the Barcelona Aquarium, located at Port Vell. This was a hit with the whole family, especially the children. The aquarium is one of the largest in Europe and features an impressive variety of marine life. The highlight was the 80-metre-long glass tunnel that runs through a massive tank filled with sharks, stingrays, and a myriad of colourful fish. The kids were in awe as they walked through the tunnel, surrounded by sea creatures on all sides. The aquarium also offered interactive exhibits that were both fun and educational, making it a fantastic stop for families.

As the day came to a close, we boarded the bus back to the central station and caught the train back to Malgrat de Mar. We were all thoroughly exhausted but incredibly satisfied with our day in Barcelona. It had been a day filled with unforgettable experiences, and we returned to the hotel with a deeper appreciation for the vibrant city.

Day 4: Mini Train Ride and Pool Day:
Thursday was another relaxing day, starting with a charming mini train ride around Malgrat de Mar. The mini train is a fun way to see the town, especially for the kids, who loved the novelty of riding through the streets on the small, colourful train. The train took us past some of the town’s key sights and provided a leisurely way to explore without the need for too much walking.

The ride lasted about an hour, during which we saw parts of Malgrat de Mar that we hadn’t yet explored. The train meandered through the town’s residential areas, parks, and along the beachfront, offering us a different perspective on the town. The kids waved at passersby as we rode along, and we all enjoyed the relaxed pace of the morning.

After the train ride, we returned to the hotel for another day by the pool. The children couldn’t wait to jump back into the water, and we were happy to oblige. We spent the rest of the day swimming, playing, and soaking up the sun. The hotel’s pool area was a haven of relaxation, and it was nice to have a day without any major plans.

However, the day wasn’t without its excitement. At one point, Georgia accidentally popped Dotty’s beloved unicorn floaty, which caused a bit of a commotion. After a few tears and some quick thinking, we managed to find a replacement at a nearby shop, and all was well again. Despite the small mishap, the day was filled with laughter and fun, making it another memorable day of our holiday.

Day 5: The Church and Funicular Ride:
On Friday, we decided to explore more of Malgrat de Mar, starting with a visit to the town’s church. The church, with its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere, offered a quiet moment of reflection amidst our busy week. We took some time to admire the intricate details of the building, both inside and out, and the kids were surprisingly interested in learning about the history of the church.

After our visit to the church, we made our way to the funicular car that would take us to the top of a nearby hill. The funicular ride was a highlight for the children, who loved the experience of riding up the steep incline. As we ascended, the views of Malgrat de Mar and the surrounding area became more and more impressive.

At the top of the hill, we were greeted with breathtaking panoramic views that stretched out over the town, the sea, and the rolling hills beyond. There was also a tower at the summit, which we climbed to get an even better vantage point. The tower offered a 360-degree view, and we spent some time taking in the sights and snapping photos. The kids enjoyed the sense of adventure that came with exploring the tower, and it was a great way to cap off the morning.

After descending from the hill, we took a short walk to a nearby beach. The beach was less crowded than the main beach in town, which made it a peaceful spot to spend the afternoon. The kids played in the sand and waded into the water while we relaxed and enjoyed the sunshine. Later in the day, we returned to the hotel for a final dip in the pool. It was a day filled with a mix of exploration and relaxation, and we all felt a deep sense of contentment as we wound down for the evening.

Day 6: Castle in Hostalric:
Saturday was a day of historical exploration as we set off to visit the town of Hostalric, known for its impressive castle. The journey required a couple of train rides and a steep climb up the hill, but the effort was well worth it. Hostalric is a small town with a rich history, and the castle is its crowning jewel.

The walk up to the castle was a bit challenging, especially with the kids, but the promise of exploring an ancient fortress kept everyone motivated. As we climbed, the views of the surrounding countryside opened up before us, and the anticipation built as the castle’s towers came into view.

Hostalric Castle is a well-preserved fortress that dates back to the 11th century. The moment we stepped through its gates, we were transported back in time. The castle’s old city walls and towers are incredibly well maintained, and we spent hours exploring its various rooms, passages, and battlements. The kids were fascinated by the history, and we took our time wandering through the castle, imagining what life must have been like for the people who lived there centuries ago.

One of the highlights of the visit was walking along the old city walls, which offered stunning views of the surrounding area. The walls are in excellent condition, and the walk was both scenic and educational. We also explored the castle’s towers, which provided even more fantastic views and a sense of adventure for the kids.

The only downside to our visit was the lack of a café on site. We had brought some snacks with us, but after the steep climb and extensive exploration, we found ourselves wishing for a place to sit down and enjoy a proper meal. Despite this, the experience was fantastic, and the castle’s impressive history and architecture made it a highlight of our trip.

After spending most of the day at the castle, we made our way back down the hill and caught the train back to Malgrat de Mar. We returned to the hotel tired but satisfied, with the day’s adventure serving as a perfect conclusion to our week of exploration and relaxation.

Day 7: A Relaxed Sunday Stroll and Preparing for Water World:
After the excitement of our castle trip on Saturday, we wanted to take it easy on Sunday, the 1st of September. It was a cloudy and cool morning, perfect for a more relaxed day. After breakfast, we decided to head out for a leisurely walk, with a specific goal in mind—souvenir shopping! One of our favourite traditions is collecting magnets from the places we visit, and today we were on the hunt for the perfect one to add to our collection.

We strolled through the local shops, affectionately known as “tat shops,” where we browsed through the array of trinkets and mementos on offer. However, our walk took an unexpected turn when we stumbled upon a lovely jewellery shop. Unlike most of the typical tourist shops along the strip, this one stood out with its unique and tasteful pieces. Ali spent a while inside, and I won’t spoil the surprise, but let’s just say there’s a secret waiting inside that shop!

After our shopping adventure, we decided to scout out the pickup point for our big adventure tomorrow—Water World! We wanted to be sure of the location to avoid any stress in the morning. The anticipation for Water World was building, especially for the kids, and tomorrow’s epic day was all they could talk about. But that’s a story for tomorrow.

With our logistics sorted, we continued our walk, this time venturing into the neighbouring town of Santa Susanna. As we moved further away from the touristy tat shops of Malgrat de Mar, the atmosphere shifted to more of a café culture vibe. Santa Susanna had a more laid-back, local feel, with charming cafés lining the streets and a slower pace that was perfect for our leisurely Sunday.

During our walk, we came across a play area in Santa Susanna, which the kids were eager to check out. Spain isn’t particularly known for its playgrounds, but this one was decent, and the kids had a great time running around and burning off some energy. After they had their fill of the playground, we headed back to Malgrat de Mar for an afternoon of relaxation by the pool.

The pool was the perfect way to wind down our Sunday. The kids played and swam while we relaxed and reflected on the week’s adventures. It was a day of simple pleasures—shopping, strolling, and swimming—all wrapped up in one. As the sun began to set, we felt grateful for the calm before the storm that would be our Water World adventure the next day.

Later that evening, Georgia and I decided to take a special ride on the Triku Tricu, a small train that tours the town. We wanted to see the strip lit up at night, and the experience did not disappoint. The town took on a magical glow under the streetlights, and Georgia was thrilled to see the familiar sights in a whole new way. The ride was the perfect way to cap off a relaxed day, and it left us both excited for the big day ahead.

Day 8. Water World and Our Final Day:
Our last full day of the holiday was Monday, and what better way to finish than with an exhilarating day at Water World in Lloret de Mar? The excitement had been building all week, and as we boarded the bus to the water park, the girls could hardly contain themselves.

Water World is one of the largest water parks in Europe, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. We spent the day racing down water slides, splashing in the wave pools, and floating along the crazy waterfall. The park had something for everyone, from thrilling rides to more relaxed areas, ensuring that both the kids and adults had a fantastic time.

One of the highlights for the whole family was the rubber ring ride, which took us on a gentle journey through winding channels surrounded by the of glimpse of lush greenery when we popped out and in the tunnels. The kids loved navigating the twists and turns, and it was a great way for all of us to enjoy some time together. We also spent a lot of time at the splash pads, where the kids had endless fun running through the jets of water and playing in the shallow pools.

While I wasn’t brave enough to try the park’s infamous drop slide, Ali and Georgia took on the challenge of the fast blue race slides. They climbed to the top, counted down together, and zoomed down at lightning speed. The thrill on their faces at the bottom was priceless, and they both immediately wanted to go again. The park’s variety of attractions meant there was never a dull moment, and we all found our own favourite spots to enjoy.

As the day wound down, we relaxed on the sun loungers, soaking up the last rays of the Spanish sun. It was a perfect end to our holiday, full of laughter, excitement, and family fun. The kids were exhausted but happy, and as we headed back to the hotel, we all agreed that the day had been a highlight of the trip.

That evening, we packed our bags in preparation for our early departure the next morning. Our flight home was scheduled for early Tuesday, which meant a 5:30 AM start. Though we were sad to leave, we were also filled with a sense of contentment after such a wonderful holiday. We spent our final night reminiscing about our favourite moments and looking forward to the next adventure.

Tips and Advice:

• Packing Essentials: Sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water are must-haves, especially during the summer. Don’t forget snacks for day trips, especially when visiting places like Hostalric where food options may be limited.
• Dining: Malgrat de Mar offers a variety of family-friendly dining options, while Barcelona’s culinary scene is vibrant and diverse. Plan ahead, particularly for late dinners, as Spanish mealtimes are later than what you might be used to.
• Transportation: The open-top bus in Barcelona is a convenient way to see the city, while the mini train in Malgrat de Mar adds a fun twist to exploring the town. The funicular rides offer both practical transport and thrilling experiences for kids.
• Exploring Hostalric: Be prepared for the steep hill leading up to the castle. Wear comfortable shoes and pack a picnic, as there’s no café on site.
• Fun at the Pool: Pool days are perfect for unwinding, so make the most of your hotel’s amenities. Keep a spare floaty on hand in case of accidental pops!

FAQs:

• Is Malgrat de Mar suitable for a family holiday?
  Yes, Malgrat de Mar is a fantastic destination for families. It offers a mix of beautiful beaches, charming parks, and easy access to nearby attractions like Barcelona and Hostalric.
• How easy is it to travel between Malgrat de Mar and Barcelona?
  The train ride between Malgrat de Mar and Barcelona is straightforward and convenient, making day trips to the city easy and enjoyable.
• What should we expect when visiting the castle in Hostalric?
  Hostalric Castle is well-preserved and offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history. Be prepared for a bit of a climb and bring your own refreshments, as there are no cafés on site.

Useful Resources and Links:

• Malgrat de Mar Tourism
• Barcelona Bus Turístic
• Montjuïc Cable Car
• Hostalric Castle
• Water World Lloret de Mar

Our week in Malgrat de Mar and Barcelona was an unforgettable blend of sun, sea, and history. From the whimsical parks and golden beaches of Malgrat to the architectural wonders and vibrant streets of Barcelona, every day was filled with new discoveries. Highlights included our mini train adventure, exploring Montjuïc Hill by cable car, and the incredible views from Hostalric Castle. A relaxed Sunday stroll and some souvenir shopping rounded off our week perfectly, and our final day at Water World was the perfect way to close out an amazing holiday. This trip offered the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, leaving us with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for Catalonia’s beauty and history.

Have you explored Malgrat de Mar or Barcelona with your family? We’d love to hear about your experiences and any tips you might have! Share your stories in the comments below and let’s inspire each other to embark on more family adventures.

Learn more about Family Holiday in Malgrat de Mar!

Learn more about Family Holiday in Malgrat de Mar!