Balneari Vichy Catalan

My final destination? The Balneario Vichy Catalan, a three-star hotel close to the centre of Girona and with easy access to the region’s beaches. It’s certainly not difficult to miss, boasting an exterior similar to the bullrings that are dotted about the country. Its modernist design evokes Gaudi and Dali, setting in place the fairytale narratives that seem to imbue Catalonia, and the lavish gardens that surround it gave me a taster of what was to come.

I later found out that the Vichy Catalan was built back in 1891 and has maintained is lustrous character since then. Its brick tiles, gold displays, and neo-Moorish style were typical of this era, when exotic architecture spread ten-fold through Spain. This hat tip to the past continued inside, too, with stained glass, wrought iron railings, and arched windows oozing turn of the century charm. There was actually a chapel situated on the grounds as well, where guests could tie the knot amidst a fairytale, Catalan landscape. The hotel was grand, to say the least. And, with its 86 rooms, banquet halls, and convention centre, it was also a sophisticated affair. My room was evidence of this – plum walls and cream furnishings painted a cosy lair, whilst the wood-panelled floor gave it a modern edge.

But the star of the show at the Vichy Catalan is the thermal centre. The water used was discovered back in 1881 and was extracted from the rock to use for relaxation and healing. Caldes de Malavella, where the hotel is set, was famed for its healing water during Roman times, and it was often sought after for Roman baths. Even today, the water is considered to eliminate a whole range of ailments, so it makes perfect sense that the Vichy Catalan is a top-notch health and beauty centre. It has everything you could want and more from a spa facility, including thermal baths, saunas, and Jacuzzis, as well as other services like hydrotherapy, facials, massages, and beauty treatments.

When not doing as the Romans did and languishing in the spa, I ventured out to explore the area. After hearing so much about the food scene in Girona, I had to take the short train ride to the city to tuck into some local favourites. Barcelona is close by, too, for a quick dive into the world of Gaudi, and the beautiful coves of the Costa Brava were just a short drive away. For days when I didn’t feel like doing much, I dined in the hotel restaurant, which served up a mouth-watering selection of seasonal Mediterranean dishes.

So did I find what I was looking for at the Vichy Catalan? Of course! In fact, I wish I’d spent longer soaking up the food, the relaxing treatments, and the stunning surroundings…maybe I’ll just have to come back!