Long-established as one of Costa Barcelona’s most important tourist destinations, the main attraction of the Maresme region are its golden-sand beaches. Some are wide and long, such as those of Calella and Santa Susanna, while others are smaller and hidden away, such as La Vinyeta and Roca Grossa. Many have been awarded the Blue Flag seal of quality and are perfect for water sports. Sailing, kayaking, surfing, scuba-diving… the region boasts an unbeatable range of services at its marinas, yacht clubs and specialist centres!

Gastronomy is another of the region’s strengths. Indeed, the rich fishing tradition of the Mediterranean, combined with superb market garden produce, results in a mosaic of aromas, colours and flavours that can be sampled in many of the area’s restaurants. In fact, El Masnou is home to one of the Michelin-starred restaurants in the regions of Barcelona: Tresmacarrons is a vermouth-restaurant establishment run by Miquel Aldana. It has held its star since 2016.

Maresme is also home to a number of the best-conserved buildings of the Catalan modernist movement. In Mataró, for example, you can visit works by Antoni Gaudí and Josep Puig i Cadafalch, while in Canet de Mar the summer residence of architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner awaits you, now turned into a fascinating museum. If you want to find out what life was like in a Catalan modernist villa, go on the guided tour offered by the town. You won’t regret it!
 

• Four towns in Maresme have been awarded the Family Holiday Destination seal thanks to their specialist offering for families with kids. Do you know which ones they are?