Salvador Dalí has inspired much creative work and many people - but few would expect his art to become the spur for a programme of sea kayaking holidays. Maggi Smit, who runs Paddle Escapes, explains: “He seemed to inhabit a dream world where objects, people and animals are arranged in unforeseen and often unexpected combinations; strange figures superimposed on landscapes.

“The rugged coast of Catalonia in northeast Spain, where he was born and lived, inspired much of his artwork and reflected his love for the area. The marine scenery contains spectacular rock outcrops that have been carved by the wind and sea into fantastic forms. Depending on how much sun and wine you have, or Dalí paintings you have seen, they can become images of real or mythical animals.

“Many of the high cliffs, caves, inlets and coves are accessible only by sea, so it seemed sensible to create a kayaking programme.”

Smit's company offers a choice of two, four and seven-night trips, with or without fights from the UK, and May is an ideal time for paddling through the clear waters before the weather gets too hot. Guests are transferred from Girona airport to Hotel Grimar, close to the Creus cape peninsula, one of the largest protected nature reserves in Catalonia. After breakfast, guests are fitted for all equipment and briefed on sea-kayak safety techniques before setting out on a day's excursion with a break for a picnic lunch in a cove. A two-night programme at weekends costs £420, with flights from the UK, B&B and two days' guided kayaking - £100 less if you book your own flight.

The four-night trips take guests along the coast to Port de la Selva, Port Lligat, where Dalí lived, and Cadaques, where his parents built his first studio. A week's trip also takes in the pretty port of Roses and Les Medes Islands, and ends in the pleasant small resort of Tamariu. Four-night trips with flights and B&B are from £650 and a week costs £1,000.

Ports of call along the route all boast atmospheric tapas bars and restaurants, often beside the water, and offer delightful walks for those eager to rediscover their land legs. For those uninspired by Dalí, or seeking a tougher challenge, Paddle Escapes also offers an array on trips on several of the most beautiful rivers in the Canadian Yukon. Paddle down the Yukon from Whitehorse to Dawson City, or let guides lead you from McClusky Lake down remote Wind River.

www.paddlesescapes.co.uk - 020-8742 1556

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