Peratallada

This stretch of the Costa Brava has a pretty high concentration of fortified medieval villages but this, for my money, is one of the most memorable. For a start, it’s surrounded by a shallow moat and that, combined with the various turrets of its castle immediately gives it a fairytale feel. You can just imagine knights in armour riding Robin Hood-style through the gates and dainty damsels wafting elegantly through the picturesque plazas and squares.

Yes, but what is there to do there here and now, you’re probably wondering? Well, ok, it’s full of narrow, winding cobbled streets filled with lovely little art galleries, cafes, restaurants and craft shops. Don’t miss the Plaça de les Voltes with its cloistered arcades and terrace bars.