Mr & Mrs Smith

Eat by the waves at Tragamar, a beachfront restaurant at Platja del Canadell, in Callele de Palafrugell (+34 97 261 4336). Another seaside eatery worth a visit is Sa Tuna (+34 97 262 2198) at Platja Sa Tuna, Begur. The restaurant sits cosily on the beach, with marine-themed decor and delicious fish feasts.

For plump pastries, potent coffees, fresh sandwiches and beer refreshment, visit La Tosta (+34 97 230 8716) café at 16 Dels Rajolers, Regencos.

Indulge in a few lazy days spent poolside, or in the upstairs reading room playing board or card games and watching DVDs. When you’re feeling more lively, ask the hotel to organise a hot-air-balloon trip, boat hire, a massage or a picnic and set out to explore the scenic surroundings. Borrow some of the hotel’s mountain bikes (thoughtfully equipped with GPS to prevent those head-scratching, heart-thumping ‘where are we?’ moments) or spend an afternoon perfecting your putt at one of the nine nearby golf courses. If you’re bored of merely frolicking in the sea, try out some watersports at Funtastic Empordà, a water sports centre with wind surfing, water-skiing and sailing facilities.

April Castell d’Empordà hosts a jazz festival for 12 weeks. May Girona hosts a Festival of Flowers with fabulous floral displays dotted around the city. July Experience cobla bands and sardana dancing in Torroella de Montgrí and Palamós. July–August Castillo de Peralada hosts an international music festival with balletic, operatic and orchestral performances in the grounds. September The 11th is the regional festival Diada de Catalunya: expect fireworks, sardines (the fish, not the game) and celebrations across the region.