Besalu

Besalu can go down as one of those hidden gems. Well it isn't exactly hidden, but took best part of two hours driving from Girona to find it. But well worth the trip (especially when one isn't doing the driving!)

At its heart it is a early medieval town. Tight streets not built for cars. Real character.

 One thing I should say for the area - it is very pro-Catalan independence. Catalan flags everywhere and many political slogans.

But after a little wandering we settled to our main task - lunch. And what an utterly glorious lunch it was, down a little alleyway. We got there early and ate outside. Three courses, all local food and wonderful quality, for only 20 Euros.

 Replete and very happy (although somewhat behind our intended schedule) we walked back through the town in a direction chosen by Thibault.

 And Thibault was on a mission, as he led us to what is the town's truly wonderful highlight, a 12th century Romanesque stone bridge over the River Fluvia. Awesomely beautiful sight, and very photogenic. So just look at the photos now. I will shut up.

 The views from the bridge back to the town are impressive too.

As I said, no shortage of Catalonian independence slogans....

On teh river bank, modern sculpture. This big chair symbolises peace (or an arts grant)