L'Empordà's Surrealist Heritage and Storied Hotels

Monocle's travel segment delves into the Catalonia region of l'Empordà and Costa Brava, showcasing its surrealist roots, historic accommodations, and vibrant culinary offerings. Spanning from Blanes to the French frontier, the area embodies contrasts: a luxurious retreat for the affluent and a traditional provincial hub. Esteemed writer Josep Pla and surrealist artist Salvador Dalí once called it home. The Hostal de La Gavina in S'Agaró, established in 1932, marked the region's rise to fame as part of a 'garden village' initiative begun in 1924 by businessman Josep Ensesa and architect Rafael Masó, reflecting noucentisme. The hotel has welcomed Hollywood icons like Elizabeth Taylor and Orson Welles. Further along the coast, Tragamar restaurant in Calella de Palafrugell, managed by Tomás Taruella and his daughter Gina, is part of Grupo Tragaluz. Taruella also oversees Hotel Madremanya, a quaint 12-room guesthouse in a medieval setting. The Palau de Casavells, a contemporary art gallery located in a 16th-century estate, is affiliated with Alzueta Gallery. The Mas de Torrent hotel and spa showcases works by Josep María Sert. Hostal Empúries, which opened in 1907, initially catered to archaeologists. The term 'Costa Brava' was introduced in 1908 by journalist Ferran Agulló i Vidal and gained official recognition in the 1960s.