Smithy's Trip to Barcelona

James Smith is one of the Directors of Esselle Sports and Head of Sales. Last week, he visited Barcelona to check in on some of our United States of America groups and visit our new tournament partner KOMM MIT at their biggest event; the Trofeo Mediteraneo.

Paule, the KOMM MIT mascot at the opening ceremony of Trofeo Mediteraneo.

Where did you go and why did you go there?

I travelled with my brother and spent three nights in Santa Susanna, just outside Barcelona. We stayed in the same hotel used by KOMM MIT for their travelling teams, so I could experience what life is really like for a player on one of their tournaments. From the food to the facilities, I got the full experience. While I was there, I also took the opportunity to visit some new hotels that are keen to work with us, and I managed to catch up with two of our touring groups who happened to be out at the same time.

What were your impressions of the destination?

Esselle's Spanish Tour managers enjoying an evening out.

I've been to Barcelona before, but it was great to be back. The city is a beautiful blend of culture, with a mix of old and new architecture around every corner. The roads and transport links are impressively efficient, making it super easy to get around. The whole city has a vibrant buzz, with loads to see and do.

All of our tour managers live in the city, and none of them are in any rush to leave — they love life there and speak so passionately about it. It's not hard to see why.

Did you visit any of the sights or take part in any activities?

We tucked into some fantastic food at traditional restaurants in Barcelona — and I had a good go (not very successfully!) at speaking Spanish. Definitely room for improvement there.

Most of our time was spent watching the very sports we help organise — football games featuring touring teams. One of our groups played against a local side, San Fost, and it was great to see the parents enjoying the game from the stands... especially with the very reasonably priced beers at the bar!

Stockport County Under-19s Educational Team.

We also had not one, but two of our clients competing in the Trofeo Mediterráneo. Stockport County’s Under-19s Educational Team even made it to the finals! They didn’t take the trophy home, but their tactical play and determination really stood out.

Did you stay in or inspect any hotels? What were your impressions?

Thomas Smith settling into the hotel room.

The tournament hotel, Hotel Reymar Playa in Santa Susanna, is a great value 3-star option. The rooms are basic, but the beds were seriously comfy. As for the food — full board meant plenty of choice across all meals, and I was pleased to see a wide variety of healthy options, perfect for young athletes.

The only downside? Sharing a room with my brother. He might be professional at work, but let’s just say he’s not the tidiest roommate. (See picture as evidence!)

I also had time to check out a new partner hotel, the Avinguda Hotel in Castelldefels, just outside Barcelona.

Technically it’s listed as a 3-star, but it easily deserves four. The rooms are spacious and well-suited for groups. The public areas are stylish and functional, with modern furnishings, a good-sized dining room, and great meeting spaces — ideal for sports teams.

And its location is spot on: close to the beach and within easy reach of the city centre. It’s definitely a solid stop on any tour itinerary.

Now you’ve visited this location, why do you think it’s a good destination for a sports tour?

Barcelona is a brilliant destination for sports teams. The city is sports mad — football and basketball are part of the fabric of life here, and the competitive spirit runs through every generation. Combine that with the rich culture, incredible food, mountains nearby, and that classic Mediterranean vibe, and you’ve got the perfect setting for a sports tour. Oh — and it’s surprisingly affordable too!

Feeling inspired?

Please don’t hesitate to contact us at info@essellesports.com for more information.