The sunny Spanish seaside town of Sitges, located just a short, 30-minute jaunt from Barcelona, is a stylish and sophisticated beach spot that has, over the years, become increasingly frequented by the rich and famous. Argentinian football star Lionel Messi was said to have spent many a summer here resting and recuperating following the season end at Barcelona F.C, and with its long, sandy beaches and privileged location on the shimmering Mediterranean sea, it’s easy to understand its allure.
Surrounded by vineyards and national parks, it is often dubbed the ‘Spanish St. Tropez’ owing to its high-end yachting and sailing culture, and is home to plenty of upmarket shops and boutiques and a plethora of luxurious hotels and restaurants. The perfect spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of busy Barcelona and take some time out to enjoy some rest and relaxation in this Catalonian slice of paradise, if you haven’t visited yet, then it’s time you ticked it off your bucket list.
Here are four reasons to book those flights for 2022 for a sophisticated, sunny Spanish escape you’ll never forget. Guaranteed to keep you coming back for more, it’s a special destination you won’t be able to help falling in love with.
The breath-taking beaches
Oozing style and Bohemian charm, there is plenty to love about Sitges – and its 19 beautiful beaches are some of the best of them. Clean, well-maintained and within walking distance from the town centre, there’s a beach to suit all tastes – from lounging on the golden sands or taking in a volleyball tournament at beautiful La Fragata, to playing in the surf with children at Sant Sebastian before heading to one of the many great restaurants and chic cocktail bars that line the sand afterwards to refuel after a long day.
Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it here, with quiet coves, gay and nudist beaches and romantic spots all yours for the taking.
Luxury accommodation
Sitges has become synonymous with exclusivity, and attracts affluent visitors from across the globe during the summer months – but although the town certainly has its fair share of luxury five-star hotels (such as the stylish Dolce by Wyndham Sitges Barcelona), the high-season crowds can, at times, feel overwhelming. It’s for this reason that many of the world’s wealthy opt to avoid hotels altogether when visiting, and rent a private luxury villa in Sitges for an extended period instead.
Offering the utmost in privacy and seclusion, Utopia Villas offer large private swimming pools and manicured gardens, with spacious, air-conditioned bedrooms and a private chef to take care of the catering. If you’re travelling with up to two families, then it’s the perfect way to ensure a relaxed break, and with entertainment including free unlimited Wi-Fi, a large Smart TV and powerful Bluetooth speakers, you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips.
A thriving food and drink scene
Sitges is justifiably renowned for its excellent selection of restaurants and thriving foodie scene, with locals joking that there is a new dining spot to try for each of the 365 days of the year. From freshly caught seafood to laid-back tapas, you’ll find just about anything you could dream of here. Highlights include Fragata, where artfully plated Catalan seafood and paella are served up at an upmarket oceanfront spot with harbour views, and Maricel, where diners can enjoy a relaxed dining experience out on the terrace.
Afterwards, head to Raco del Vi to sample some of the region’s finest wines, or move onto the Casablanca cocktail bar, which offers a welcoming atmosphere and intoxicating vibe that is hard not to love. You’ll find a wide variety of high-octane nightlife should you want it, too, with most bars staying open until 2am and dance floors packed with sophisticated revellers sipping champagne.
Shopping
Sitges’ beachside promenade, lined with beautiful, white-washed buildings and all manner of shops and boutiques, is the perfect place to indulge in a spot of retail therapy. Attracting a cosmopolitan crowd, you’ll find everything from bohemian art galleries to chic luxury boutiques and everything in between.
While you’re here, take a wander around the quaint, cobbled streets of Sitges old town and get lost in its labyrinthine streets. Pausing for some refreshment in one of its shady squares is a must, and the perfect excuse for a midday cocktail or some tapas to share. It’s also an interesting place to visit at night, when the streets come alive with people and the atmosphere is electric.
