Food Technology School Trip To Costa Brava

Tossa de Mar is a popular coastal resort located on the Girona coast. The castle, walls and towers of the medieval old town built on a rocky promontory have become the most recognisable image of Tossa de Mar. There are magnificent views of the coast from the lighthouse. The old fishermen’s quarter lies just outside the old town walls and there are plenty of shops, cafes and restaurants.

A practical cookery demonstration is a great way to learn new skills and engage with the language, culture and local food. A professional chef will demonstrate typical specialities. A translator is provided and everyone gets a taste of what has been prepared at the end of the demonstration.

Students visit a lively local market, bursting with delicious local produce. Enjoy the atmosphere and an opportunity to practice some Spanish. The visit is accompanied by a guide who will assist with the purchase of ingredients (cost included) to make a traditional Paella. The Paella will be prepared in a cookery demonstration later in the day. After the demonstration everyone gets to taste the Paella.

Pupils see the colourful spectacle of this unique Andalucian dance performed by professionals. Although there is no single flamenco dance, dancers must follow a strict framework of rhythmic patterns. The passion and energy of the performers make for an unforgettable show. The evening will take place in your hotel and will include a Spanish dinner with tapas and non-alcoholic Sangria for students.

Dating back to the middle ages, the Boqueria is one of Barcelona’s leading attractions. Located on Las Ramblas, this covered market has a dizzying array of fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, confectionery and more. There’s also a ‘culinary classroom’, where you can learn to cook, and where a variety of other gastronomic events take place.

Chocolates Torras was founded in 1890, and exports its products to 25 countries across the world.  At a visit to its large factory, 120km from the Port of Barcelona, students can find out exactly how the chocolate is made. After a film showing the preparation process and the different raw materials, the group then views production from a footbridge.

Freixenet offers a guided tour of the cellars and production process, specially designed for schools. Starting with an audio-visual presentation explaining how Cava is created from the viticulture to the final product, groups then visit the cellars, barrel room and the underground man-made caves where the bottles are stored. A small train then takes the group to the tasting hall where children receive grape juice.

Situated 40km Northwest of Barcelona, Montserrat is one of Spain’s most impressive natural sites. This multi-peaked rugged mountain over the valley of the river Llobregat is home to a historic Benedictine Monastery and a Basilica, whose shrine to the Black Madonna attracts many pilgrims. The Basilica is also famous for its boys choir which performs here daily at 13:00.

A trip to Barcelona city is a must. You can see Antoni Gaudi’s Parc Guell and his still unfinished masterpiece the church of the Sagrada Familia, browse the Boqueria market and wander the lively Las Ramblas.

This ancient town has all the charm of a large city but without the crowds. The old town is on the east bank of the river, with pedestrianized narrow streets surrounded by the old city walls, which you can walk along. There is an attractive Jewish quarter to explore, a magnificent gothic cathedral, Arab baths and an archaeological museum as well as great shopping. Photo © Miquel Caimary.