Rocky underfoot, with ascents and roadways, what better to speed us on our Catalonian ten miler than those evocative twin towers - San Per du Ribes neo-Gothic church?

This town is a historic destination with real `inland` character. On arrival we found three terrace cafes, a fountain-splashed square -  and a brewing wind storm to speed us home. Indeed that lush square under the palms suddenly became out of bounds. Security tape appeared, cafe tables rattled and hats were blown off.  Yet with aching feet we had thoroughly enjoyed our hour, saying cheerios to those making the most of a bus home.

Now, after lunch, who can resist the climb to a  medieval castle? And what to look at first– views across from lofty ramparts, or indulgent graffiti art blazing forth on every wall?

Whereas our party had arrived via road crossings, myriad bridges and the Sigitana Brewery, homewards was different. After navigating a huge River Bed, James, our local leader gave us his analysis of what can happen when a Bugatti laps 100 mph with tyres the width of a push-bike. He pointed out the brooding, yet derelict 1920`s Brooklands-style autodrome at Rocamar (surely a museum in the waiting?). Another of those hedonist passions which made Sitges the place it is today

Finally, if ever you want a good reason to be out of breath, try traversing the length of Sitges sea front in a gale. Palm fronds crashed around us - and where had everybody gone? One of us having reccyed the Sport Bar beforehand,  we arrived in our little groups to down some Estrellas and view the white horses foaming in. Huge  thanks to James for a superbly executed circular