Pals – Catalonia (Spain)
LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION
Located in the interior of the region of the Baix Empordà (1), Pals is made up of three centres: the medieval town, Masos de Pals and the beach, which combine to form a unique personality.
With a population of little more than 2,500 (2), its location is strategic inside the Empordà, being surrounded by coves, coastal footpaths, natural parks, marine reserves and a long list of charming villages full of history and cultural heritage throughout the nearby regions (3).
(1) Wikipedia entry for Pals.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pals
(2) Demographic and economic data for Pals (IDESCAT)
http://www.idescat.cat/emex/?id=171241&lang=en
(3) Tourism in Pals
http://www.palsturisme.com/uk/pals-turismo-costa-brava.html
WHAT TO DO
Pals is perfect to discover on foot: losing oneself amongst its squares and genuine cobblestone streets.
THE MEDIEVAL HISTORICAL CENTRE
Situated at the summit of the Puig-Aspre, the medieval town rewards one with a panoramic view of the whole Empordà. The romanesque, gothic and baroque church of Sant Pere (10th century), the bell tower or Tower of the Hours (11th – 12th centuries) and the wall (12th – 14th centuries) stand out.
PALS BEACH
Set around dunes and pine trees, Pals beach is one of the longest on the Costa Brava. Located next to a golf course, it presents one with a privileged view of the Medes Islands.
http://www.palsturisme.com/uk/information-pals-beach%20.html
CUISINE
Rice, the star ingredient of the cuisine of Pals, has been rooted in the region for more than five centuries; it is prepared with products from land and sea. White and red meats, vegetables and fruits also stand out due to their intense flavour in all dishes.
http://www.visitpals.com/en/default.aspx?ACCIO=PORTALENC&NIVELL=6579D32CB08575F95BC38965885321716DE63D531CE3D6894CC39B7314F7E7A78C363B6ADCDBD283
http://www.palsturisme.com/uk/pals-rice-emporda.html
TELEPHONE NUMBERS AND LINKS OF INTEREST
Emergencies: 112
Local Police: 972 667 777
Pals Town Hall