Lunch in Llafranc

Llafranc is a lovely coastal village that was home to the Romans until the 4th century. The ancient ruins are still present and I don't blame the Romans for settling here. Nice real estate if you can get it! This beach is ridiculous in the summer--boutiques, restaurants, mega yachts, etc. Keep in mind that the beach is only 330 meters long and the village is teeny, so it is a lot of people crammed in a small space. It is a place to see and be seen, so during the summer it is not for me. However, I do love coming here throughout the rest of the year.

Llafranc is a beautiful beach with pristine waters. There is a rocky headland at each end of the cove so it is a great spot for snorkeling. The local hotel was a favorite hangout for Dali and his crew and many artists still reside here.

 I brought the kids and we played on the empty beach for about an hour or so before Rory arrived. The kids love the empty beaches. They run and explore a bit more independently on a deserted beach.

 Now, Catalans do enjoy going to the coast for lunch on the weekends. Restaurants open for lunch at 1pm and by 2pm things are quite crowded. We scored a lovely table on the terrace and sat down to enjoy a nice Catalan lunch. 

 Seafood fideua and seafood paella was just the ticket for lunch! We also ordered a couple of salads to start with because the kids were really hungry. These types of dishes are Catalan staples and they are often served at school, so my children love seafood. We have to help them open the gambas and such, but they have no problem eating any of this.

 A typical Catalan lunch at a restaurant is at least two hours, possibly three. Our kids can do two hours without problem at this point, so lunches are (usually) nice and relaxing. I know this is not typical in the USA, but kids start going to lunch or dinner here at a very young age and they learn to just sit and relax without much fuss. Families may bring something to read or draw with, but most of the time the children are conversing with adults and learning the art of a long lunch. Aurelia's school works at this each day, so she knows she is meant to sit quietly and wait for bread (with tomato/garlic and olive oil, of course). She likes to pour her own olive oil and dip her pan con tomate. Kids menus are not typical here because children usually eat the same items as the adults. Of course, restaurants are very family friendly and will always bring something out for the children if needed.