The Catalonian capital of Barcelona has long been a sought-after tourist destination. With its sunny skies, rich history and cosmopolitan lifestyle, the city has something to offer everyone. The warm balmy weather calls to be explored with many activities to stimulate one’s interests. Check out 10 of the top outdoor activities you can indulge in on your visit to this beautiful city.
1. Urban safaris
Nature lovers will get a kick out of enrolling themselves for urban safaris. Sponsored by the Jane Goodall Institute, visitors can opt for the Marine Birds or Urban Birds tours, both designed to create awareness among the public about Barcelona’s fauna. Aside from this, there is also the historic Parc del Castell de l’Oreneta, a wooded area which also doubles up as a conservatory.
2. Boating
Charming boat rides are what you will find if you visit the Parc de la Ciutadella. Amidst the park with its green lawns, playgrounds and a waterfall, is a lake where you can hire rowing boats and settle down to marvel at the lush surroundings.
3. Skateboarding
Extreme sports junkies can get out their skateboards and get a thrill at the MACBA. Outside MACBA is a square that sees skateboarding aficionados showing off their skills as well as skate stores where you can purchase all your skating paraphernalia.
4. Climbing
While it may not be as thrilling as mountain climbing, you can still get your adrenaline pumping at Montjuïc’s Climbat, a climbing center with surfaces measuring 800m². There is equipment for hire as well as classes first timers can take.
5. Beach hopping
What’s the point in visiting Barcelona if you don’t go beach hopping? Get your beach gear together and head for Barceloneta Beach, Icaria Beach and Mar Bella Beach where you can do more than just swim. There are kite and wind surfing activities as well as exercise circuits and even libraries.
6. Outdoor cinema
More entertaining than a drive-in, Barcelona hosts a cinema and concert event at the moat of the historic Montjuïc castle. No matter your taste in movies, you’ll find everything from the classics to just-released flicks. Prior to the movie screening, visitors can enjoy live music as well as bring their own picnic baskets for an evening to remember.
7. Sardana
Put on your dancing shoes and head to the Plaça de St Jaume or the Santa Eulalia cathedral to take part in the Catalonian dance called sardana. A cobla band will get you dancing to the rhythms typical of Barcelona. And while it may look simple, know that sardana isn’t easy to master.
8. Windsurfing
Get more than just a swim at Base Nàutica with a course in windsurfing. If you’re not a beginner, you can hire equipment charged per hour and also take part in sailing as well as hire kayaks.
9. Table tennis
Table tennis lovers can visit almost any park or public garden to find table tennis tables. There are over 40 such tables located in these green spaces and paddles and balls can be bought at any one of the Chinese-run shops.
10. Música als Parcs
Thursdays to Saturdays should be reserved for Música als Parcs, outdoor concerts that are organized on these days. Jazz and classical are the orders of the day with about 30 groups in each category. The concerts are held in green spaces like Turó Park, Parc de la Ciutadella and Parc Central del Poblenou.
The city of Barcelona sees a mix of sporting activities, culture and a lot of music. Its diverse nature is one of the reasons why it draws so many visitors from far and wide. If you ever plan to visit, make time for all of these outdoor activities aside from the usual sightseeing.
About the author: Samantha Harper is a blogger by profession. She loves writing on technology and luxury. Beside this she is fond of gadgets. She recently bought an Android Mp3 Player for herself. These days she is busy in writing an article on teen health.