Sunday (Barcelona)…

(Note that as I’m writing this entry tonight, Barcelona and Madrid are tied up 1-1 at the half in their annual rival match. Frankly, the city may descend into chaos with a goal on either side.


After a leisurely Sunday morning with pastries and some reading, we ventured off in the Raval. Random winding streets took us into a hidden courtyard. A small fountain in the center held several deep-green limes from the low trees lining the courtyard.


Hopped a 2€ funicular that lifted us halfway up the steep ridges of the Montjuïc park. Committed at that point, we dropped another 7€ on a sky tram (the Telefèric de Montjuïc), which swept us the rest of the way up the hill.


Perched on top of this strategic hill is the historic Castell del Montjuïc, a former military fortress, with successive rings of steep brick walls. The central fortress has a broad brick roof…very warm on a sunny afternoon! Spectacular 360-degree views of the city…including our first direct views of the Mediterranean and the expansive port of Barcelona. Counted at least four massive cruise ships in port. We grabbed a bottle of water and a crusty cheese sandwich from a lunch stand pumping out club tunes. A black cat wandered beneath the tables looking for a snack.


Our downhill trek was pleasant as we wove to connect shady paths. Stopped briefly at the whimsical Font Màgica, with Gaudí-esque pools spilling noisily one into the next. Continuing down, we zig-zagged through the lush gardens. Found a tucked away seated zip line and took a few rides. Fun…and unexpected to be sure. Finally made our way down the final paths and steps to the city below.


All that walking…definitely time for a beer at Ocaña. Very refreshing.


After a short rest in the apartment, we turned to the Raval for dinner. Hoards of football fans spilled out of bars everywhere, craning their necks to watch Tucked-away televisions. Cheers and some firecrackers as Barcelona scored to pull ahead 2-1.


Found a cozy plaça with a pizza place. Really wonderful thin, crispy pizzas. Jeff had a great one with cheese and bacon and a egg. Mine was a mild BBQ pizza with chicken. Finished off with a wonder, light tiramisu. Perfect meal to break up our tapas.


After dinner, we returned to Ocaña for a nightcap. Icy mojitos hit the spot on a pleasantly warm night. Popped into the Ocaña’s amazing nightclub in the historic basement of the building. Smooth soulful tunes with a funky beat filled brick arched ceilings.


By the way, Madrid tied it up. The game ended as a 2-2 draw. We never heard a peep from the fans. No torches or pitchforks that we have seen 🙂 Good night.