Early start up to Montserrat today which was amazing - and great timing too! Not only did we miss the crowds and rain, but we also saw Sunday morning mass while we were waiting to see the black Madonna. Yummy Paella for lunch at the Ramblas in Barcelona. Another long drive tomorrow to Cannes. Lots of photos uploaded to https://flic.kr/s/aHsk3JhNqq but I really don't think they do justice to how amazing Montserrat is!

Another long day on the bus - 600km plus - but finally arrived in Barcelona at 4. Then quick tour of city buildings and Sagrada Familia which was great. Off to Montserrat tomorrow and then free time. I definitely like Barcelona better than Madrid already! Not many photos today but have uploaded a few to the Flickr account at https://flic.kr/s/aHsk3JhNqq

Spent the morning on a bus tour of Madrid. It reminds me of Canberra - lots of government buildings and lots of school groups looking at them! Had a wonderful trip to Toledo this afternoon, it was really beautiful. Free night tonight so going out to a local restaurant. Another long trip tomorrow as we are traveling to Barcelona! And yes as per usual I've uploaded the days photos to https://flic.kr/s/aHsk3JhNqq

A big day of driving today, almost 700km from Lourdes to Madrid. Have managed a few key phrases in Spanish which is good because not too many locals seem to "abla ingleses". Quick stroll around Madrid tonight and a quiet night in with salad, ham, cheese, bread and red wine. Salud! Off to Toledo tomorrow - today's photos uploaded to https://flic.kr/s/aHsk3JhNqq