The Spanish region undiscovered by Brits despite seaside views and ancient Roman cities
TREKKING up a steep ski slope wasn't on my radar for a summer mini-break in Spain.
And the hike at an altitude of 2,300ft in the Pyrenees was leaving me a little breathless.
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Vallter 2000 ski resort in the Pyrenees of Girona, Catalonia
Credit: Alamy
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Ryan and Scarlett at summit
Credit: Supplied
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Ryan, Kelly, Scarlett and Savannah soak up Girona
Credit: Supplied
But I was determined to keep up with my children, Savannah, 13, and Scarlett, 11, who had left me trailing.
My wife Kelly and I had been promised the effort would be worth it for the spectacular views and, when we finally reached the peak, we were not disappointed.
From our incredible viewpoint, our guide Xavi revealed the delights of the northern Spanish region of Catalonia, with the Mediterranean Sea in one direction, the French border in another.
Many Brits may picture sun, sea and sangria when they think of Spain, but the lush green pastures, thick pine forests and tinkling cow bells give this area a truly peaceful Alpine appeal.
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While Spanish tourists flock here all year round for hiking in the summer and snow sports over winter, the area remains relatively undiscovered for us.
And with blue skies and milder temperatures, it could make for a much more temperate option for families keen to avoid the scorching south.
After our three-hour trek at the Vallter 2000 ski resort, we were ready for a hearty meal and soon discovered the area is a secret foodie paradise, boasting a constellation of 20 Michelin stars.
At the rustic Can Jepet, a family restaurant set in the picturesque mountain village of Setcases, we were treated to a memorable five-course tasting menu.
The highlights included organic eggs with asparagus, fresh river trout and a warm cookie cake served with ice cream made from the local Birba biscuits.
With bellies full, we checked into Hotel Grevol, our home for the next three nights.
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This charming hotel's wooden decor evoked a Swiss ski lodge and its wellness centre was the perfect place to soothe aching limbs.
The next day took us to nearby animal park Mollo Parc, where we wandered through a river valley, admiring native rabbits, baby goats, birds of prey and huge brown bears.
Scarlett was especially delighted when the zookeeper invited her to help feed the marmots — a friendly meerkat-type creature — their healthy breakfast of carrots and courgettes.
All-time top pudding
Just next door is the Mollo adventure park, which offers Go Ape-style activities.
I was more than happy to be the designated photographer, while my fearless daughters flew through the fir forests on zip wires.
That afternoon there were more gastronomic delights on offer at Restaurant Can Calixto, where we feasted on seasonal dishes and local produce, including salmon with leek cream and juicy pork ribs.
Our next stop was the small town of Camprodon, another hidden gem oozing history and situated idyllically beside the Ter River.
Our culinary adventure concluded at Pont 9 restaurant, a favourite with locals and featuring an adventurous menu including pig's trotters and cuttlefish.
It was here my daughter Savannah discovered her new all-time 'top pudding' — a warm, sugar-coated croissant-style pastry filled with Catalan cream.
They are called xuixos, and we hope they make their way to the UK soon!
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Scarlett feeds the marmots
Credit: Supplied
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I hope a warm, sugar-coated croissant-style pastry filled with Catalan cream called xuixos make their way to the UK soon
Credit: Alamy
We also visited Girona, a beautiful and lively city in Catalonia, half an hour from the coast and often overshadowed by its coastal neighbour Barcelona.
Girona has become a magnet for both professional and amateur cyclists, resulting in a buzzy and stylish cafe and restaurant scene.
A walking tour took us up to the spectacular city walls, first built by the Romans in the 1st century BC, where we admired panoramic views.
Winding our way back to our hotel through the city's cobbled alleyways, we spotted locations featured in smash hit TV series Game Of Thrones and walked across a striking red bridge.
Our guide informed us it was designed by one Gustave Eiffel before he turned his attention to a certain tower in Paris.
Our sumptuous lunch was at Fonda cal Ros, which offers Catalonian twists on classic tapas and made us vow to return to this wonderful city.
If you're looking for a family-friendly culinary adventure, combined with exhilarating activities in natural surroundings, book your ticket pronto for this stunning corner of Spain.
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