The discreet charm of Benicarló

Well, we knew it wasn't likely to be our kind of place, but it is a convenient overnight stop for our appointment tomorrow. More pleasant was our lunchtime stop in Sant Sadurni d'Anoia, whose claim to fame is that it is the headquarters of cava production. Tripadvisor isn't always a great resource, but it did us proud this time. We had lunch at a small restaurant and wine bar called Ticus. Four courses, two glasses of cava plus a free refill, and coffee left change from 50 euros. We liked the cava enough to buy a bottle to take away. The food was delicious and elegantly presented, and the staff charming. Maybe we can call there on the way back ...

After that it was a dull two-hour drive to Benicarló. First impressions: it's a dump. The lady at the hotel told us the annual artichoke festival was in full swing. We walked into town; no artichokes were in evidence, but there were stalls selling food and crafts in the main square. We wandered as far as the beach, discovering a somewhat nicer bit of town with typical Catalan buildings and a very impressive church. But we quickly exhausted the limited charms of Benicarló. Back in the square, we ate some very nice crepes, and then walked back to the hotel to avail ourselves of the wifi.

PS I am completely cured of my sneezing. Very odd.