L'Escala, Spain

L’Escala is a little fishing village on the Costa Brava, about two hours north of Barcelona. My grandmother, Ida, read about this coastal town in a book, convinced my Pop-Pop, George, to pack up the car and drive from England to Spain for a holiday. They fell in love with the character of the area and the unspoiled beaches, and returned almost every summer for three decades. Foreigners don't really go here except, except of course for my family and ourAuntie Margaret, who my mum met on the beach when she lived there.

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Accommodation:

• The best place to stay is the Hostal Empúries. Tucked away from the center of town, nestled amongst fragrant pine trees, this hotel is a simple oasis looking over the Gulf of Roses.

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Activities:

• I am like a sunflower and will literally chase the sun, so it is no surprise that I like to bask in the Spanish sun. The best beaches are the hidden beaches – handwritten directions courtesy of my mum, Clare.

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Food:

• The food in L’Escala is nothing to rave about, but Sant Martí d'Empúries has the best options. Go to the Plaça Major and see which menu is most appealing to you. We like Can Coll and La Terrassa d'Empúries.

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Nightlife:

• Share a pitcher of fresh Sangria with your family at one of the restaurants in the center of town. These restaurants overlook the beach and the port where fishermen used to bring in the catch of the day. Children, meanwhile, can play in the sand.

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