Insider Edge: Insider Escapes

Despite the urban seaside charms of Barcelona, in August, the city empties, as it is hot, humid, and no one stays in the city. In early summer, head out for the day to the nearby beach resort town of Sitges – a former fishing village, and a strong favourite of the pink euro, but also of Barcelona families, many of whom have summer houses there - half an hour and a few euros on the RENFE (train). Snack or lunch at La Costa Dorada on the Corniche, and don’t forget the obligatory “paseo” (stroll) along it at the end of the day, to show off the tan, to see and be seen! www.virtourist.com

Or head out to the rural countryside by car, to visit the recently-restored village of Castellets, with its superb lake about 50 km from Barcelona.

Girona is beautiful and worth a visit even if you are not flying Ryan Air. The Hostal Empuries on Playa del Portitxol is delightful and slightly old-world, with good food, too. Tel 972 77 02 07

You could also venture further – and zip down the motorway to Valencia, to sample its wonderful historic and contemporary architecture, sailing events (Tall Ships Race), and urban cool, with a different flavour than Barcelona.

Image courtesy of Trip Advisor