It was the acclaimed 1992 Olympics that transformed Barcelona’s heavily industrial coastline into today’s glamorous waterfront. Until then people had little contact with the Mediterranean on their doorstep, as the shores were taken over by industries or the sprawl of shanty housing. Essential work in preparation for the Games, including the removal of railway lines, rewarded Barcelona’s inhabitants with a string of golden beaches and a long, landscaped promenade to jog, cycle or dog-walk along.
Today these beaches are a well-established playground for Barcelonans and visitors, easily reached from all parts of the city by public transport. On bright, crisp winter days they are perfect for getting exercise and clearing city heads. It is often warm enough to eat at one of the many xiringuitos (beach bars) or restaurants between Barceloneta and the Fòrum area. In the summer the nearly 5km (3 miles) of beaches are thronged with kids, grandparents and the bronzed and beautiful who flop from sun lounger to beach bar as the sun sets. By nightfall the DJs start spinning, making the beach a cool place to be on a summer night. Overnight, an army of cleaners prepare the nine beaches for the next day.
Fun in the sun on Nova Icària beach.
Corrie Wingate/Apa Publications
City Beaches
A Short Train Ride Away