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The life hidden at the water’s edge

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  • The life hidden at the water’s edge

Calella de Palafrugell is an idyllic coastal town in the Baix Empordà, boasting hidden coves and stone alleys where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly.

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In Calella, tradition embraces and lives alongside the new that is yet to come.

A corner of the Mediterranean where time seems to stand still, yet the life hidden at the water’s edge pulses with a vitality unique to Calella. This ancient fishing village, nestled among the rocks and bathed by the calm Mediterranean waters, preserves the untouched beauty of its history. Here, tradition and modernity coexist in perfect harmony, where narrow stone alleys lead to hidden coves that open like treasures among the rocks, offering spaces of tranquillity and serenity.

Beneath the crystal-clear waves, Calella conceals a vibrant world teeming with life. The seafloor is a rich universe of biodiversity, with fish darting through seagrass meadows, algae swaying with the current, and rocks glowing with vibrant colours, reflecting the Mediterranean’s purity and vitality.

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Beside the sea, Calella’s nights take on a special kind of magic, shaped by a tradition that resonates deep within the soul: the habaneras. In summer, the beach becomes a chorus of voices, and the air fills with the sound of these sea shanties, telling tales of sailors, distant loves, mermaids and ocean voyages. The tradition connects the town to its seafaring roots, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere beneath the stars. And, of course, rum cremat always accompanies the melodies. This delicately prepared drink, infused with sugar, lemon and cinnamon, is heated over a fire – giving it its name, cremat, (‘burnt’ in Catalan). It’s a typical drink that sweetens these magical nights, making hearts dance to the rhythm of the waves and music.

Calella is a place where tradition not only thrives but also serves as a springboard for a contemporary and innovative spirit. The taverns that once offered fresh grilled fish now blend traditional dishes with new forms of gastronomy, all while preserving the essence of the land.

Much like the Mediterranean, life in Calella flows calmly and steadily. As the sun sets beyond the horizon, casting a golden light on the white facades and the waters, we sense that life at the water’s edge is filled with secrets, traditions and moments that, thankfully, never fade away.

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