It boasts of being the only city in the world to have hosted an Olympic race (it was 1992) and the oldest sports competition ever: today Barcelona is indeed the stage of sailing. From September to October the city will witness the match races of the 37th edition of the America' s Cup. The six international teams, including Italy's Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli, will compete for the final against the defending champion, Emirates Team New Zealand. Thirteen regattas on the calendar, whoever wins seven will finally get the chance to raise the “Auld Mug”, for the first time in the water of the Catalan city.
Sailing history and tradition
Barcelona has always been a benchmark for all water sports: snorkelling, diving, surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, rowing and last, but by no means least, sailing.
The sea is part of its essence and its skyline; just look at the port which, with more than two thousand years of history, connects it to the entire Mediterranean. The aquatic element therefore characterises it, developing a special relationship with all the related activities, and where sailing occupies a prominent place. Aided by Barcelona's Mediterranean climate, with mild temperatures and favourable winds, the regattas are a fixture throughout the year. The city is also home to several ports considered centres of excellence in navigation, such as Port Vell and Port OlÍmpic, created specifically for the 1992 Olympics. There are also multiple sailing clubs that boast decades of history, the most important being Real Club Náutico de Barcelona and Real Club Marítimo de Barcelona, founded in 1872 and 1881 respectively.
It's no wonder that the America's Cup title-holder team chose Barcelona as the venue for the new edition.
The location of the America's Cup
So where will the thirteen competitions take place? The AC75 will be racing south of two emblematic points along the Catalan coast,La Barceloneta and Hotel W. A village will be set up along the entire stretch of sand and will remain operational for the duration of the event, complete with stands and services. From this area, spectators will get the chance to watch the regattas with ease and witness a truly extraordinary show.
Beyond sailing
However, the wonders of the region are not limited to maritime activities, and there are multiple attractions even quite a distance from the coast.
Starting with Barcelona, one of the most visited cities in Europe, known for its architectural works by Antonio Gaudì such as the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Casa Battlló or Casa Milà, also famous for its many green spaces, such as Parc de Montjuïc and Ciutadella, and its traditional markets, La Boquería above all, where you can taste typical Catalan dishes. Here the tradition of the old town and the vitality of the modern districts coexist, making it a unique destination for all ages.
However, the region extends further, dotted with natural parks and pristine oases. Located among the highest peaks of the central Pyrenees, is the Aigüestortes and the Estany de Sant Maurici Natural Park, known for its numerous rivers, streams and lakes (more than a hundred), which offer spectacular views and unspoiled nature. Moving near the town of Olot, also in the Pyrenees, is the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone National Park: here, you can admire an equally spectacular, albeit totally different, naturalistic panorama. Mountains and headlands carved by volcanic activity create veritable natural sculptures.
If you want to return to the urban centres, or almost, Catalonia is full of Mediaeval villages. Small historical hamlets where time seems to stand still, among the most renowned are: Besalú, Beget and Santa Pau. Lastly, there are also several more modern cities: Tarragona, with its archaeological sites belonging to the UNESCO World heritage, Girona, famous for its historic buildings and multicultural neighbourhoods, and Sitges, a seaside town famous for its festivals and cultural events.
The America's Cup is just the last and excellent opportunity to enjoy Barcelona and Catalonia in a unique combination of sport, nature and culture.
