Lifestyle -- 7 days ago
In association with
A Catalonian Christmas awaits you at La Roca Village
From the best in après-ski style to the finest hot chocolate in Europe, this is why Spain is the perfect seasonal destination
- Words: Jonathan Wells
In association with
From the best in après-ski style to the finest hot chocolate in Europe, this is why Spain is the perfect seasonal destination
With its blazing Iberian climate, holiday hotspots and culture of summer siestas, Spain isn’t the first place we think of as a winter destination. But, from popular desserts including turrón and mazapán, to seasonal songs such as ‘Feliz Navidad’, the southern European nation may be more festive than you think.
One more Christmas credential to add to that list would surely be La Roca Village. Almost twenty years old, this retail destination — part of The Bicester Village Shopping Collection — is home to more than 130 boutiques that offer discounts on top brands all year round. But, at Christmas, La Roca Village really comes alive.
Christmas lights, trees and decorations of red and green descend on this Spanish shopping destination, welcoming in tourists and locals alike to tick all the gifts off their Christmas lists in one convenient location. And, this year, a unique collaboration with sculptor Nico Nubiola sees beautifully-lit sculptures of mythical festive creatures in our Art Space.
And it couldn’t be easier to get to La Roca Village. Just a stone’s throw from the beaches of the Costa Brava and the Maresme you were lounging on just months ago, this shopping destination can be reached by the daily sleek and chic coach service that runs direct from central Barcelona.
By now, hopefully you’re convinced of a Catalonian Christmas. And where better to get kitted out for a trip to seasonal Spain than some of the world’s top brand’s local boutiques? From Scalpers and Hackett to Napapijri and Sandro, there are plenty of jackets and coats on offer to keep you warm this winter.
And, if you’re heading to Montseny, a superb natural park just 10km away, after your retail therapy, why not pick up the latest gear in Columbia, The North Face or Salomon? Whatever you may need for a continental winter, La Roca Village is more than equipped to equip you.
But Christmas is about giving — and this shopping destination also has everything you need to pile more presents under your tree than ever before.
Montblanc are offering 60% off a selection of items, Le Creuset will give you many of their wares for half price and special gifts are on offer at Swarovski — more than enough to guarantee you, your family and your friends a very merry Christmas.
Finally, if festive food is the key to unlocking your Christmas cheer, there are several eateries on site to sate your seasonal hunger. A selection of foie gras, cheeses and chutneys are on offer at the elegant and sophisticated family delicatessen Andreu.
The Taste of Christmas gourmet boutique also offers guests the chance to treat themselves to gastronomic souvenirs, from the very best of local Spanish wines, to indulgent experiences such as wine and olive oil tasting treats.
And, at Amorino, you’ll be able to enjoy multiple flavours of rich hot chocolate — another lesser known seasonal Spanish speciality. See, we told you Spain was the place to be this Christmas…
Looking for sharp suiting closer to home? Check out the sartorial offerings at Bicester Village…
