Ep 7. From the Sublime to the Surreal
- November 6, 2008
In Season 1, Episode 7 of the captivating travel and culinary show "Spain...On the Road Again," titled "From the Sublime to the Surreal," our enthusiastic hosts Gwyneth Paltrow, Mario Batali, Mark Bittman, and Claudia Bassols embark on yet another mesmerizing adventure through the picturesque landscapes of Spain. This episode promises to be a delightful escapade as they explore the diverse regions of Catalonia and Valencia, immersing themselves in the rich culture, awe-inspiring architecture, and tantalizing flavors of these extraordinary areas.
As the episode commences, the dynamic quartet finds themselves in the enchanting city of Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia. Gwyneth, Mario, Mark, and Claudia are immediately captivated by the distinct blend of gothic and modernist architecture that adorns the city's streets. They wander through the vibrant cobblestone alleyways, absorbing the lively atmosphere that permeates the air. Along the way, they encounter talented street performers and witness the incredible human tower formations — a captivating tradition unique to Catalonia. The hosts marvel at the sublime beauty of Antoni Gaudí's iconic architectural wonders, including the breathtaking Basilica de la Sagrada Familia and the whimsical Parc Güell.
Leaving Barcelona behind, the group sets off to explore the surreal landscapes and colorful traditions of the Valencian region. They find themselves amidst the picturesque orange groves, where the intoxicating aroma of citrus fruits fills the air. Embracing Valencia's renowned agricultural heritage, the hosts partake in the age-old tradition of horseback riding through the orchards, marveling at the natural beauty around them.
In their quest to uncover the unique flavors of Valencia, Gwyneth, Mario, Mark, and Claudia venture into the heart of the region's culinary scene. They visit local farms, where they learn about the cultivation of traditional ingredients such as rice for the beloved Valencian paella. The hosts are enthralled as they witness the meticulous process of preparing this iconic dish, from harvesting the rice to cooking it to perfection. Along the way, they have the opportunity to chat with local farmers and chefs, gaining insight into the deep-rooted traditions that have shaped Valencian cuisine.
No exploration of Valencia would be complete without delving into its world-renowned arts and culture. The hosts find themselves wandering through the narrow streets of the historic city center, discovering architectural gems such as the awe-inspiring Valencia Cathedral, home to the Holy Grail. They also visit the world-famous Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences), a futuristic complex featuring innovative structures dedicated to science, art, and culture. As they traverse these surreal spaces, the hosts contemplate the intersection of tradition and innovation that characterizes Valencia's vibrant artistic landscape.
Throughout "From the Sublime to the Surreal," Gwyneth, Mario, Mark, and Claudia partake in a multitude of captivating experiences that are sure to leave viewers longing to explore the remarkable regions of Catalonia and Valencia. From the architectural majesty of Barcelona to the picturesque landscapes of Valencia, this episode takes us on a breathtaking journey through the rich history, enchanting traditions, and mouthwatering flavors of two of Spain's most mesmerizing destinations. Get ready to be transported to a world where the sublime meets the surreal, all brought to life by the passion and camaraderie of our intrepid hosts.