With the arrival of the Christmas season, looking for destinations near Barcelona is also an interesting alternative. Less than an hour from Barcelona is a little known treasure: Cardedeu, a charming Catalan village that becomes an ideal destination to experience the magic of Christmas.
Beyond its geographic proximity, this town of 17,000 inhabitants has earned the preference of visitors thanks to its Christmas and artisan nougat fair, a celebration that has transcended local borders.
History and modernism in Cardedeu
Cardedeu, strategically located in the Vallés Oriental, has witnessed history dating back to the 10th century, but it was in 1272 when King Jaume I granted it the status of mayoralty.
However, its golden age came in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, when Barcelona’s high society found in Cardedeu their favorite vacation destination.
The modernization of the town, spurred by the construction of the railway line and the county road, attracted vacationers seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Cardedeu’s architecture is a charming fusion of ancient and modern elements, with a historic center that offers a unique cultural and commercial experience. Modernist buildings such as the Torre Lligé, the municipal cemetery and the Casal Daurella bear witness to this golden age.
Christmas and Artisan Nougat Fair
The charm of Cardedeu intensifies during the Christmas season, especially during the Christmas Fair and the artisan nougat. This holiday, which officially begins on December 15, is anticipated with events starting on December 8.
The “Fire of the fair”, lit and blessed in the chapel of Sant Hilari, illuminates the Christmas spirit and then moves to the Church of Santa Maria.
From Friday 15 to Sunday 17, visitors can immerse themselves in the magic of the fair. Artisan nougats, with lamb nougat as the protagonist, delight the palates of the attendees.
Carols, chocolatadas, children’s games, parades and dances fill the streets of Cardedeu of Christmas joy. In addition, stalls with Christmas decorations offer the opportunity to take home festive souvenirs.
How to get to Cardedeu
Cardedeu’s proximity to Barcelona makes it an easily accessible destination. The journey by car from Barcelona is only 35 minutes via the C-33 and the AP-7. From Girona, the trip takes 55 minutes on the AP-7.
This proximity makes Cardedeu a perfect getaway to enjoy Christmas away from the hustle and bustle of the big city.
Cardedeu becomes a perfect destination for those looking for an authentic Christmas experience and awaits you with open arms to share the magic of Christmas.
