A scorching day in the largest of three highly recommended seaside towns in the region of Palafrugell, 50km from Girona (the other two are Calella de Palafrugell and Tamariu). All three have child-friendly sandy beaches, ideal for swimming and rockpooling.Photograph: Photograph: Ranjit Dhaliwal for the GuardianThe steep, winding drive to the beautiful village of Portlligat was worth it for the no-frills seafood, which came straight off the boats a stone’s throw from our table. The squid and sardines, served on a sizzling skillet, was the best meal of our holiday.Photograph: Photograph: Ranjit Dhaliwal for the Guardian/ Photograph: Ranjit Dhaliwal for the GuardianEntry to the home of the surrealist painter is by appointment only. It was our third attempt in four years to get in but worth the wait. We loved the eccentricity of it all, from the stuffed polar bear to the giant eggs at the top of the cliff that his house is built into.Photograph: Photograph: Ranjit Dhaliwal for the Guardian
