Bernia - Spain

Since time immemorial Bernia has been subjected to intense human activity dating back to the times when the Moors and Christians struggled for control of the territory.  The Fort of Bernia was constructed in 1562, to keep watch over the coast and avoid attacks by Barbary Pirates.  In 1612, it was pulled down by royal decree to avoid it being used as a stronghold by the very pirates and villains it was intended to protect against.
 

In the 18^th and 19^th centuries, and even up until the beginnings of the 20^th century, Bernia was home to legendary bandits who would continually hold up wealthy travellers through the area for the benefit of those less well off.  In fact, one of the largest passes in the mountain was named after one of the most famous of these bandits: Mascarat.

We hadn't intended to visit Bernia in particular but during one of our daily travels, we met a lady whose daughter was running a restaurant in Bernia - Casa Susi (Susi's House).  The business card that she handed out to us looked quite attractive so we decided to go and check the place out.  We certainly didn't regret our decision. 

Casa Susi Restaurant in Bernia 

The building was nestled amongst a vineyard with magnificent views and the restaurant itself was simply charming in its simplicity and its warm welcoming.

The View form Casa Susi Restaurant

Casa Susi's Outdoor Dining Area with View of the Vineyard 

We ordered lunch and enjoyed some entertainment while savouring some very tasty treats.

Home-Made Pate and crudités

Smoked Leg of Ham with Honey Dew Melon

Jijona Ice Cream and Caramel Sauce

Live Entertainment at Casa Susi Restaurant 

After a delicious lunch, we decided to visit the Bernia Wine Museum; not far from Casa Susi.  The museum also operates as a restaurant.  There, we came in for a real surprise and a total change of décor.

The Bernia Wine Museum

As soon as we walked in, we were instantly transported into another era and the charm of the place was unlike anything I had ever seen before.  the following images will better explain what I saw there and how I felt when I visited that place.

An Ideal Spot for a Movie Background

One of the Many Buildings at the Wine Museum

One of the ways Wine was Kept in Earlier days

Wash Basin Carved out of Stone

Yesteryear's Charm

Heading Towards the Restaurant

The Rustic Kitchen of the Wine Museum Restaurant

Leg of Wild Boar Cooking in an Open Fire

The Restaurant Dining Room

All in all, we had a wonderful day in Bernia and we will certainly return there to sample the Wine Museum Food.