Little-known sights of the costa brava on the map of spain. Costa Brava: things to do on Spain's most famous coastline
The coastal relief of the Costa Brava resort region is made up of impregnable cliffs and rocks, overgrown with Pyrenean pines and firs, which, in turn, alternate with magnificent bays and bays with white sand beaches.
All beaches here, as well as throughout Spain, are municipal and free. Many blue flag beaches, including: Blanes and Sabanell beaches in Blanes, Fenals, Lloret, Sa Boadella & St. Cristina in Lloret de Mar, Garbi and Gran de Calella beaches in Calella, Gran de Todda & La Mar Menuda in Tossa de Mar, the central beach of Malgrad de Mar and Pineda de Mar.
Rental of beach equipment (sunbeds and umbrellas) is paid separately. The swimming season lasts from mid-May to October.
Transport
Getting to Barcelona is not difficult, the express bus runs on the route Tossa de Mar - Lloret de Mar - Barcelona about 7 times a day and the ticket costs about 6 euros, and the fare for a taxi will be about 90 euros. But still, the main mode of transport on the coast is comfortable commuter trains. Railway stretches along the coast from the town of Blanes to Barcelona and beyond. Trains leave every 30 minutes (traffic stops at night), the ticket price varies depending on the day of the week and is approximately 3 euros. From Lloret de Mar to railway station Blanes can be reached by bus, which also leaves every 30 minutes from the bus terminal. But there is an alternative way to travel between neighboring resorts - these are pleasure boats that run between the cities of Blanes, Tossa de Mar and Lloret de Mar several times a day. The price of a boat ticket is 3 - 8 euros one way, depending on the distance. Moving between the resorts of this coast by taxi will cost you about 6 - 20 euros. Prices are for one way only.
Things to do?
Resting in the resorts of the Costa Brava, you can successfully combine a beach holiday with excursions. Moreover, there really is something to see. Well, how not to visit Barcelona, for example? Not to see the famous creation of Antonio Gaudi - Sagrada Familia? 145 km from Barcelona is the magnificent medieval city of Girona. Not far from this historical monument is the town of Figueres, where the theater-museum of Salvador Dali is located. It is also impossible not to visit the miracle of ancient architecture, the symbol of Catalonia - erected at an altitude of 721 m above sea level and surrounded by bizarre rocks, the monastery of Montserrat. A full day excursion to the independent Principality of Andorra - a duty-free zone - is a "deep dive" in shopping. In the town of Valtordera, you can see a real medieval jousting tournament, as well as become a participant in a medieval festival with dancing and dinner. Not only children, but also the older generation will enjoy visiting the Marineland dolphinarium, Aqualeon minizoo, water parks, the largest of which is called Water World and is located near Lloret de Mar.
Resorts
The resorts of Costa Barcelona and Costa Brava, which have long been known under the common name "Costa Brava Coast", are located on the northern coast of Spain and are deservedly loved by tourists from all over the world.
Vacationers are attracted by affordable prices, a large selection of entertainment for the whole family, developed infrastructure and proximity to Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia.
The Costa Barcelona (or Costa Maresme) stretches from Barcelona to the resort town of Santa Susanna. Behind him begin the resorts of the Costa Brava - Blanes, Lloret de Mar, Tossa de Mar and Playa de Aro, each of which has its own unique look. Lloret de Mar is popular with young people who prefer outdoor activities and entertainment.
Lovers beach holiday will appreciate the long beaches of Calella and Santa Susanna, their picturesque surroundings and seafood. Tossa de Mar, a natural gem of the region, is a quiet and peaceful family resort, located in a cozy bay on the seashore. Here is the famous medieval fortified city of Vila Vella (" old village"). The hospitable resorts of the Costa Brava will not leave indifferent those who cannot imagine life without shopping and leisurely dinners in local restaurants. A large selection of hotels for different tastes, gentle sea and bright sun, attractions located "literally at your fingertips", all these joys of life you will find here, on the coasts of Catalonia.
Costa Brava is a Mediterranean coast located in the province of Girona, in the northeastern part of Catalonia. The Costa Brava is officially included in Spain.
It is this corner of Spain and the Mediterranean coast that is one of the most picturesque. Tourists who dream of visiting here get a good opportunity to fully enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing tourism.
Picturesque nature, favorable climate, convenient territorial location attracted the Iberians, ancient Greeks and Romans. It is not surprising that a large number of sights have been preserved here.
Gardens of Saint Clotilde, Lloret de Mar
The gardens are unique rocks, on top of which trees are planted. Moreover, from this place stunning panoramas of the sea open up.
An example was the Italian Renaissance, on the basis of which unusual gardens were created. Tourists can appreciate the unique garden architecture with several tiers of terraces, proper organization of free space, and beautiful plants. Travelers will be pleased with the picturesque landscapes, streams and waterfalls, ponds and fountains, grottoes.
It is this attraction that tourists will remember for a long time.
Church of San Roma, Lloret de Mar
The construction of the church was carried out in the distant 1522. Initially, the architectural style was close to the Catalan-Gothic, but subsequently had to be changed.
The church served not only for religious purposes, but also allowed the locals to hide from enemy attacks.
Large-scale reconstruction activities successfully started in 1914. The Gothic style was retained as a basis, but modernism was added to it. Now in the appearance of the church you can find features of the Renaissance, Byzantine and Muslim cultures.
In 1936, when the Civil War the building was damaged. However, the chapel still pleases many tourists.
Location: Carrer de la Vila (8-10).
Church of Sant Feliu, Girona
This Gothic church is one of the oldest. Despite the considerable age of the attraction, the restoration work that was carried out made it possible to improve appearance church of Sant Feliu.
Now every tourist can appreciate the beauty of the ancient church of Sant Feliu, which fits perfectly into the ensemble of Girona.
Location: Carrer Trasfigueres - 4.
In 1312, the construction of the cathedral started here, and it took several decades to carry out construction activities. During all this time, the intentions of the designers were changeable. It was only in 1417 that it was decided to build a classical one-nave hall-type temple, as it had to become more refined. The cathedral is still distinguished by its monumentality.
Complete construction activities were completed only in 1604. Nowadays Girona Cathedral is one of the most worthy religious sites.
Location: Plaça de la Catedral.
Cat House Museum, Lloret de Mar
Museum "Cat's House" is based on a private collection. However, the exposition is located in six halls. The total number of exhibits is about 6 thousand. All valuable exhibits are collected from around the world. The presented items are united by themes, because all of them are directly related to cats. Visitors can learn about the relationship between humans and cats.
The exposition includes:
- Cat portraits.
- Paintings with cats.
- Thematic painted walls.
- Ceramic products.
- Figurines of cats from porcelain, crystal, stone, wood, silver, bronze.
- Piggy bank cats.
- Toys.
- Small bells.
- Decorations.
- Items used in everyday life.
The museum exposition presents items dating from the 18th century to the present day.
Location: Carrer Sant Albert - 10.
The resort of Lloret de Mar is located in a truly beautiful corner of Spain. Rocky cliffs descend to the sea bays, protecting them from the wind. There are practically no winds on the beaches, which makes it possible to note a very mild climate.
In some places, pine dews almost approach the water, so the air is filled with coniferous aromas. The beaches of Lloret de Mar are one of the most the best places for the relaxation of nature lovers.
Theatre-Museum of Salvador Dali, Figueres
Visitors to the Salvador Dali Theater-Museum can not only visit the original museum center, but also immerse themselves in wonderful world illusions and hoaxes.
The building is distinguished by an unusual spherical dome, a ceiling with an optical effect. In addition, all the exhibits prove how unusually the world was perceived by Salvador Dali. If desired, visitors can walk around the unique museum, opened in honor of Salvador Dali, even without a guide and rely on personal feelings and feelings.
Location: Placa de Gala-Dali - 5.
Gala Dali Castle, Pubol
The medieval castle is an old building with a small church, a courtyard, a French garden. For a long time, the castle was rebuilt several times.
Subsequently, Gala Dali, whose real name was Elena Ivanovna, acquired a castle for herself. After a while, this particular castle turned out to be a real refuge for Gala Dali.
The castle turned out to be quite original. Tourists can see a large number of sculptures, baroque elements, special symbols, stuffed animals. All this is brightened up by picturesque and rich vegetation. The main task was to create a beautiful and mysterious place that cannot be completely unraveled.
Tossa de Mar is small town located at a distance of about 90 km from Barcelona. The resort town attracts tourists from all over the world with its picturesque bays and special beaches. Long sandy beaches are the best place for a long-awaited relaxing holiday. There are bars and restaurants on the local coast. If desired, you can rent umbrellas, boats, water bikes.
The active development of the tourism sector began in the 1950s. During the peak season, you can see a large number of tourists here.
Thousands of exotic plants from different countries of the world and continents grow in an amazing garden. Moreover, the collection is not only large, but also interesting.
The emergence of Piña de Rosa is attributed to 1945. For several decades Botanical Garden turned into an amazing flower complex. Today, only unique plants are presented in the botanical garden, but the collections are constantly replenished.
Cadaqués is a Spanish city located in the picturesque bay of Port Lligat. It was here that Salvador Dali, who became famous throughout the world, lived for several years. Andre Derain, Picasso, Matisse and many other celebrities have also visited here.
Cadaqués is an unusual city in Spain where you can feel the relaxing atmosphere and enjoy the unity with nature.
La Garrocha is one of the most picturesque corners of Spain and the Iberian Peninsula. It is here that volcanic cones, basalt lava flows are located. The volcanic area belongs to the Natural Park of La Garrocha.
The last volcanic eruption occurred thousands of years ago. Despite this fact, the area still remains seismically active.
La Garrocha attracts many tourists who want to enjoy the picturesque nature of the Costa Brava.
Palace of Agullana, Girona
Agullana's Palace is a medieval landmark, the construction of which was carried out in the XIV - XVII centuries. The palace complex is a worthy example of the Baroque style. The ancient building is located near the Jesuit Church of Sant Marti Sacosta. This neighborhood contributes to even greater interest from tourists.
The original building of the palace complex was built over the arched span and now adjoins the church, as a result of which the unique attraction attracts many tourists. Numerous legends and mysteries have been preserved about the castle, which are yet to be unraveled.
Above the coastal town of Blanes rises the majestic mountain on which the castle of San Juan is located. The history of the construction began in the XII century, when the locals decided to create a fortress. Subsequently, it was possible to create a fortress, a watchtower. In order to carefully examine the remains of the ancient castle, you will have to overcome a steep climb. However, the successful passage of such a difficult road will allow you to enjoy the unique San Juan Castle and picturesque panoramas of the surrounding area.
L'Estartit is one of the most beautiful resort towns in Spain. The city is located 45 km from Girona, 45 km from the French border and 130 km from Barcelona.
L'Estartit is considered a real paradise for lovers of beach leisure, scuba diving and unity with picturesque nature. Local boarding houses and hotels are ready to organize a special atmosphere and provide all conditions for a good rest for tourists.
L'Estartit attracts with its clean beaches and rocky bays, cozy restaurants, and diving centers. The upcoming pastime will certainly give vivid emotions.
Castle of Sant Joan, Lloret de Mar
The fortress of Sant Joan is a famous medieval landmark. The history of the fortress began in the 11th century. The object was used as a fortification until the 17th-18th centuries. The fortress was subjected to cannon attacks, earthquakes, storms. Despite such trials, high fortress walls and a round watchtower have survived to this day.
On the territory of Sant Joan there is an interesting museum dedicated to the history of the fortress. Sant Joan is located on top of a cliff, so this place offers an amazing panorama.
Costa Brava is a piece of paradise in Spain that will win the love of even experienced tourists.
The "Severe Coast", "Coast of the Courageous" or the Costa Brava stretches for 162 km from the city of Blanes to the border with France along the Mediterranean Sea in the province of Girona in northeastern Catalonia. The picturesque coast, indented with rocky bays, is recognized as one of the best tourist regions in Spain, rich in magnificent natural and man-made attractions.
The resorts of the Costa Brava have all the advantages of modern resorts, such as:
- developed tourist infrastructure
- excellent condition of the beaches
- opportunities to go diving, parasailing, windsurfing, snorkeling and other activities active rest
- many entertainment facilities for young people
- water parks, zoos, dolphinariums
- an abundance of museums, medieval fortresses and monasteries, places associated with the work of world famous artists
Resorts and beautiful places of the Costa Brava on the map:
The seaside resorts of the Costa Brava can be called universal, as they are suitable for people with a wide variety of needs and interests.
Top 30 resorts and beautiful places on the Costa Brava
1. Tossa de Mar
Tossa de Mar - small resort town 90 km from Barcelona, famous for its ancient origin, perfectly preserved historical center, wonderful beaches, medieval fortress on the coast. Smooth sandy coastlines alternate with rocky cliffs and small bays, forming a picturesque landscape.
For centuries, Tossa de Mar has prospered from winemaking and the production of corks for corking wine bottles. After a relatively short oblivion, at the beginning of the 20th century, it was revived as a popular resort, chosen by bohemians from different European countries. In the 1950s, Tossa de Mar hosted the shooting of the film Pandora and the Flying Dutchman, starring Ava Gardner, which aroused the interest of tourists in the city. The statue of Pandora is one of the main attractions of Tossa.
Why visit:
- Tossa de Mar is one of the most peaceful and romantic resorts on the Costa Brava.
- The city is interesting for both beach lovers and art lovers.
- On the coast of Tossa de Mar there are many places of interest for divers and snorkelers.
- From Tossa de Mar, you can easily reach other cities and towns of the Costa Brava.
Popular attractions include Castle on the Beach, San Juan Castle, Saint Clotilde Gardens, Saint Roman Church, Cat House Museum, Cabañas House, Archaeological Museum, The Fisherman's Wife sculpture, Modernist Cemetery, City Hall, Garrigue House and others.
Why visit:
- Lloret de Mar is popular with lovers of beach holidays, active entertainment, noisy parties and nightclubs.
- The city has a lot of old architectural structures and museums with interesting exhibits.
- In Lloret de Mar there is a water park, a casino, a bungee jumping tower, a children's water town.
- Festivals are often held in the city.
One of the places you should go while relaxing in the resorts of the Costa Brava, Girona is the capital of the province of the same name. The oldest city in Spain is located on the banks of the Onyar River. On the right is the historical center of Girona, on the left - modern areas.
The main attractions of the city are concentrated in the historical part, which is called Barry Vel. Noteworthy are the Cathedral of the 11th century, the Church of St. Felix, the Arab baths, the monastery of Sant Pere de Galligans, which houses the exposition of the Archaeological Museum of Catalonia, the Jewish quarter of El Cal, the Church of the Sacred Heart.
Why visit:
- Girona is a beautiful city that deserves the closest attention.
- The city has many magnificent parks and gardens.
- Experienced travelers are advised to explore Girona from the fortress wall, from which the best views to the city and surroundings.
- In Girona, it is worth seeing the bridges over the river. An equally interesting impression is made by colorful houses on the banks of the Old Town.
The port city and resort of Blanes, which has earned the honorary status of the Gateway to the Costa Brava, is located in the western part of the coast, 60 km from Barcelona. In addition to magnificent sandy beaches, the city is famous for its medieval architectural structures and beautiful parks.
Why visit:
- Blanes is a fairly large tourist center of the Costa Brava, but at the same time a calm and quiet city, where it is especially pleasant to relax with your family.
- The city has many restaurants, eateries, cafes and bars with good cuisine.
- Fans of outdoor activities in Blanes are provided with water sports centers, sports grounds, football fields, stadiums, swimming pools in cold seasons.
- The city has kindergartens and schools for Russian-speaking children.
- Not far from the city there is a water park.
The main attractions are the church of St. Peter, the museum, the castle, the fortress walls, the Ramone tower, the ancient cemetery.
Why visit:
- Pals is recognized as one of the most colorful examples of medieval architecture.
- The restaurants and cafes of Pals offer specialties from the Baix Emporda region.
- Pals is an ideal place for lovers of quiet walks away from popular tourist routes.
In Cadaques, it is worth seeing the Church of Santa Maria, the promenade, the House of Cats.
Why visit:
- Cadaques attracts with the special beauty of the streets, built up with neat white houses, ancient architecture.
- The city has well-maintained beaches.
- You can go diving and windsurfing.
The city of Roses or Roses (Roses) is located in the bay of the same name near the border with France. Roses is suitable for family and active holidays.
At the disposal of residents and guests of the city are excellent beaches and many sports clubs offering kiting, rafting, diving, windsurfing. There are golf and football fields, sports grounds, tennis courts.
Why visit:
- Roses - very beautiful city surrounded by mountains.
- Roses is one of the oldest cities on the coast, where many architectural structures of the past centuries have been preserved.
- There is a water park in the vicinity of the city.
- Fisherman's Day is held in the city.
- There is a fish market where the fresh catch of local fishermen is sold.
While relaxing in the resorts of the Costa Brava, it is worth a trip to Empuriabrava, which is often called the Spanish Venice. The city was built on the shores of the Gulf of Roses in the 60-70s of the last century.
The main feature of Empuriabrava is the many canals that divide the city into districts and serve as original streets and highways.
Why visit:
- Empuriabrava is recognized as one of the most beautiful modern cities in Spain.
- The total length of the beaches is 7 km.
- Empuriabrava often hosts sailing competitions.
- Empuriabrava is located in one of the most beautiful natural parks in Spain.
9. Playa d'Aro
Playa d'Aro (Platja d'Aro) lies away from popular destinations mass tourism. Respectable tourists from Europe and the USA rest here. The city has many restaurants and cafes, boutiques of branded clothing, shoes, accessories, perfumes and cosmetics. There is a large outlet at the exit.
It offers tourists well-equipped beaches, children's centers with play areas, a chain of shops, an entertainment center for adults. Playa d'Aro is ideal for families with wealthy people.
Why visit:
- Playa d'Aro can be called an island of calm and comfort in a long line of resorts designed for mass holidays.
- In the vicinity of the city there is a riding club where you can go horseback riding with your children.
- There is a language school in Playa d'Aro.
- Playa d'Aro is one of the most beautiful resorts Costa Brava.
The city flows down the slopes of the mountains in terraces as a series of picturesque snow-white houses, above which the castle rises, surrounded by a luxurious botanical garden. Vacationers are waiting for beautiful sandy beaches, calm clear sea, viewing platforms with amazing views.
Why visit:
- Calella de Palafrugell is one of the most picturesque resorts of the Costa Brava.
- There are many interesting places for walking in the city.
- You can go diving and snorkeling in the bays near the coastal cliffs.
- Enchanting festivals and holidays are held in Calella de Palafrugell.
Why visit:
- Llafranc is a great place for a quiet relaxing holiday. There are no crowds of tourists, but there is the infrastructure necessary for recreation.
- In August, the Habaneros Nights are celebrated in Llafranc.
- You can go diving and snorkeling near the rocks.
Why visit:
- Figueres is of great interest to Dali fans. A large number of places in the city are inextricably linked with the name of the surrealist, who made a significant contribution to its development.
- Figueres is a beautiful city with an ancient history.
- In restaurants, bars and cafes you can taste dishes, snacks, wines from one of the richest wine regions in Spain.
Just a kilometer from La Escala lies the ancient Greek Emporion. Sights worth visiting include St. Peter's Church, the Anchovy and Salt Museum, a majestic building used as a salt warehouse.
Why visit:
- La Escala is located on an amazingly beautiful stretch of the Costa Brava.
- The city is attractive for families.
- La Escala has some excellent beaches.
- There is an opportunity to go diving, snorkeling, windsurfing.
Why visit:
- The Emporion is one of the most impressive testimonies of ancient life in the Iberian Peninsula.
- Emporion was an important strategic point from where the conquest of the peninsula by the Roman Empire began.
- Ruin ancient city Worth a visit with school age children.
- There is a good sandy beach near the settlement.
The small resort town of Begur, in the vicinity of which lies the picturesque bay of Sa Tuna, is famous for its wonderful sandy beaches and medieval buildings.
The main attractions of Begur, spread over several hills by the sea, are the ruins medieval fortress, St. Peter's Church, colonial-style mansions built by local residents who emigrated to Latin America.
Why visit:
- Begur - a good place for a relaxing holiday.
- The best beach in the city is located in the bay of Sa Tuna. There are conditions for people with disabilities, parking, restaurants, showers, changing cabins.
- Begur and Sa Tuna are located in one of the most picturesque places on the Costa Brava.
- At the beginning of autumn, a habanera festival is held in Begur, dedicated to local residents who have returned from a long and dangerous journey to Cuba.
16. L'Estartit
L'Estartit is a small resort in the central part of the Costa Brava with equipped sandy beaches and developed tourist infrastructure. There are only two large hotels in the city, vacationers mostly prefer to stay in apartments. There are few Russian tourists in L'Estartit.
Why visit:
- L'Estartit is a great resort for families. There are children's and sports grounds, long walking areas.
- The beach in the bay is suitable for families with small children. The sand is fine and soft, the descent into the water is very gentle and long, the water is clean, warm and transparent.
- The waters of L'Estartit, together with the seven rocky Medes Islands off the coast, have been declared the National Marine Reserve of Catalonia.
- On the rocks in the vicinity of L'Estartit there are hiking trails for hiking enthusiasts.
Residents and guests of the city have at their disposal a three-kilometer strip of equipped sandy beaches. Lovers of solitude are waiting for small beaches in rocky bays.
Why visit:
- Calella is located half an hour from Barcelona, which can be reached by bus, train, rented car.
- Calella is a city with a rich past, which is reflected in its architecture.
- The city's beaches are regularly awarded blue flag.
- Calella often hosts colorful festivals dedicated to the city's patron saints and important historical events.
The city is famous for its abundance of historical and natural attractions, excellent tourist infrastructure, and gorgeous sandy beaches.
Why visit:
- Pineda de Mar is recognized as one of the most developed tourist centers of the Costa Brava, where there is a huge number of hotels, apartments, hostels, villas to accommodate guests of the city.
- Most of the historical sights are concentrated in the Old Town.
- Pineda de Mar conquers beautiful architecture and plenty of shady parks.
- The city has sports complexes and a water sports center.
The city is divided into historical and resort parts. In the first one you can see houses of the XV-XVI centuries and a medieval tower. In the second - a lot of low-rise hotels, apartments, villas. Sandy beaches are equipped with playgrounds and inflatable water attractions for children.
Why visit:
- The resort of Santa Susanna is suitable for families with small children.
- The resort is located in one of the most beautiful places on the coast.
- Among the places worth visiting are San Rates Castle, where all kinds of cultural events are held.
- Santa Susanna is a great option for a budget holiday.
The resort town of Malgrat de Mar is located 60 km from Barcelona, next to the cities of Pineda de Mar, Calella, Santa Susanna, on the border of the Costa Brava and Costa del Maresme. Malgrat de Mar is suitable for sightseeing and beach holidays.
A resort area stretches along the coast with long sandy beaches and beach hotels, villas, and apartments. Behind her are Old city and residential sector. In the vicinity of the resort there is a dolphinarium and a magnificent botanical garden.
Why visit:
- Malgrat de Mar is a great place to find a relatively inexpensive hotel.
- There are many places worth visiting in the city. Among them are the Church of St. Nicholas, the city council building, the Cooperative Library in an old mansion, the tower of Vidua de San Cala.
- There is a water park in the vicinity of Malgrat de Mar.
In the Old Town, it is worth seeing the Cathedral of Santa Maria in the Gothic style, recognized as the hallmark of Palamos, the Museum of Fisheries with a unique exposition, the Archaeological and historical Museum with a rich collection of exhibits.
Why visit:
- Palamos has a large port where, in addition to fishing and transport vessels, you can see a huge number of luxury yachts.
- Fishing is considered to be one of the most popular entertainment among tourists.
- The city has many sports clubs offering a variety of leisure activities, including diving, surfing, snorkeling.
There are few sights, but Portbou is attractive for its ancient architecture. There is a pebble beach. There are not too many tourists, mostly the French prefer to relax here.
Why visit:
- Portbou is a good place for lovers of a relaxing holiday. There are no crowds of tourists here.
- The resort is famous for its ideal ecology.
- In the vicinity of the resort, there are several observation decks with amazing views.
The ancient city charms with neat low-rise buildings, clean cobbled streets, and well-maintained beaches.
Why visit:
- Llansa is in extremely picturesque place.
- The city has noteworthy historical and architectural sights - the Baroque church of St. Vincent, the chapel of the 10th century, the Museum of Watercolors.
- In the vicinity of the city there is a picturesque natural park.
Why visit:
- Port de la Selva is a great place to stay with your family.
- The city has a well-developed tourist infrastructure.
- Lots of interesting sights.
Why visit:
- The Cap de Creus park is one of the most beautiful places in the Iberian Peninsula.
- The national park is famous for its variety of endemic vegetation.
- The waters are home to a huge number of representatives of marine fauna - from fish and shellfish to leatherback turtles.
The small resort town of Sant Feliu de Guíxols, 33 km from Girona - a good choice for those who would like to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the Catalan hinterland. Tourists are delighted with the beautiful beaches, the Old Town with narrow streets and neat houses, on the first floors of which there are numerous cafeterias, shops, souvenir shops, bakeries fragrant with pastries.
Close to the historical center adjoins the area of luxurious villas surrounded by wonderful gardens, and a little further modern quarters with high-rise residential buildings.
Why visit:
- In Sant Feliu de Guixols, a beach holiday is successfully combined with excursions to historical sites, shopping, and walks in forested mountains.
- The resort is suitable for families with small children.
- Sant Feliu de Guixols has an extremely relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
In list noteworthy attractions the Cami de Rondo embankment, created with the participation of Rafael Mazo, a student of Gaudi, the elite hotel Hostal De La Gavina, the Sagaro temple.
Why visit:
- Sagaro is one of the most beautiful resort villages on the coast.
- The resort is famous for its magnificent beaches.
- Sagaro has many excellent restaurants.
In the historic center of the city, it is worth seeing the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria Mar, Calonge Castle, which combines many architectural styles, Creek Bay, Valentine's Tower or the Vigilance Tower.
Why visit:
- Calonge combines conditions for family, active and sightseeing holidays.
- From Calonge, it is easy to get to other resorts of the Costa Brava.
- There are many sports clubs in the city.
Why visit:
- Tamariu is located in an extremely picturesque place among the mountains.
- There are no crowds of tourists.
- Tamariu hosts music and folklore festivals.
Peratallada has a well-developed tourist infrastructure. Bars and restaurants work, transport links with the main centers of Catalonia are established.
Why visit:
- Peratallada is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
- The city has repeatedly hosted the shooting of films on historical subjects.
- Peratallada hosts colorful medieval festivals.
Conclusion
Resting in the resorts of the Costa Brava, it is worth using all the possibilities to make your vacation as rich as possible with vivid impressions. You can travel along the coast by bus, train or rented car.
- What to choose for an active young couple to relax: Blanes, Empuriabrava, Roses, Pineda de Mar, Sagaro
- What to choose for holidays with children: Tossa de Mar, Blanes, L'Estartit, La Escala, Pineda de Mar, Santa Susanna
- What to choose for the rest of the older generation: Portbou, Palamos, Pineda de Mar, Llanssa, Tossa de Mar
- What to choose for a purely beach holiday: Sant Feliu de Guixols, Tamariu, Calella de Palafrugell, Llafranc
- What to choose for an inexpensive vacation: L'Estartit, Portbou, Llafranc
- What to choose for entertainment and parties: Lloret de Mar, Empuriabrava
- What to choose for a holiday with a minimum of tourists: Portbow, Tamariu
Costa Brava is a Spanish tourist region in the northeast of Catalonia. It occupies 162 km of the Mediterranean coast from Blanes to the French border. The current well-maintained coast cannot be called a “wild coast”. Much closer to reality is another translation of Costa Brava - "rocky coast".
Beach holidays in Costa Brava
Compared to other Spanish resort regions, the climate of the Costa Brava is cooler. The swimming season here begins at the end of June, but in July-August there is no sweltering heat. Cities are most famous as resorts Lloret de Mar And Tossa de Mar.
The capital of the tourist region of the Costa Brava is the city of Lloret de Mar. Lloret de Mar is the central beach of the resort of the same name. The peculiarity of this busy sandy beach with a length of 1.5 km is a gentle descent into the water, quite rare for the beaches of the Costa Brava. Another city beach - Fenals, despite the Blue Flag, cannot boast of this. But there are much fewer people here than on Lloret de Mar.
The largest beach in Blanes is Sa Abanell, 3 km long. For families with children, however, the Blue Flag sandy beach of Cala Sant Francesc is more suitable for the same reason of its gentle slope into the sea. There is another beach in Blanes - Santa Anna with a length of only 75 m. It is always not crowded, but it was chosen by Germans sunbathing topless.
In Tossa de Mar, the beach of the same name with the appropriate infrastructure is considered the main one. There are much fewer people on the beaches of Es Codolar and Mar Menuda, which can be recommended to those who do not like crowds and fuss.
There are many other noteworthy beaches on the Costa Brava, including those located outside the settlements, which are available to tourists - renters of cars.
Attractions Lloret de Mar
A beach holiday in one of the resorts of this region can be diversified by visiting the numerous historical and cultural attractions located in the region.
castle-fortress Castell de Sant Joan was built in the 11th century. The defensive structure was used for its intended purpose until the 18th century.
Castle of Sant Joan
The fortress stands on top of a cliff, so the ascent on foot is quite tiring. True, those who ascend are rewarded with a magnificent panorama of the city and the sea. However, you can also get there by car or bicycle.
From April to October, the castle is open from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm and 05:00 pm. But from November to March there are few tourists, and Sant Joan is open only on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 2 pm. The ticket costs 3 EUR.
Sculpture Donna Marinera
In 1966, as part of the celebration of the 1000th anniversary of Lloret de Mar, a two-meter bronze Escultura de Donna Mariner.
Sculpture Donna Mariner (Escultura de Donna Mariner)
Sculpture by Ernesto Maragala depicts a woman accompanying her beloved on a voyage. Donna Marinera fell in love not only with tourists, but also with the inhabitants of the city, and became one of its symbols. The townspeople even assure that if you look in the same direction and touch the foot of the sculpture, then your wish will come true.
Address: Lloret de Mar, Carrer Josep Tarradellas i Joan, 5-7.
Church of San Roma
At the first glance at the built back in the XVI century. a certain dissonance between the elegant mosaic decor of the domes and the harsh wall with loopholes is striking.
Church of San Roma (Esglesia de Sant Roma)
The fact is that, in addition to the main function, the church often served as a refuge for local residents from frequent pirate raids in those days. It could only be entered by a drawbridge over a wide and deep ditch around the walls. They remained unchanged, and the church itself was rebuilt and reconstructed several times. The church was heavily damaged during the civil war.
Address: Placa de l'Esglesia, 2. You can get to the church by city bus number C-35.
Jardins de Santa Clotilde named after the early deceased young wife of the Marquis Roviralta, the namesake of the saint. The gardens, founded in 1919, occupy 24,000 m2 on a cliff in the prestigious district of Fenals. The architect Nicolau Rubier y Tuduri was guided by examples of Florentine Renaissance parks. Observant tourists visiting Florence guess in the gardens the borrowed elements of the Borghese and Medici villas and the Boboli gardens. Sculptures, fountains, ponds and grottoes are harmoniously integrated into the natural landscape.
Gardens of Santa Clotilde
The park is open daily, except Mondays, from 10 am to 8 pm in high season and until 5 pm in low season. You have to pay 5 EUR for entry.
At the entrance to the city from Blanes, in a pine forest, there is Gnomo Park.
Gnomes Park (Gnomo Park)
Of course, this park with fairy-tale characters is aimed primarily at children. For them there are roundabouts, slides, swings, trampolines, mini-pools, a zoo corner. Familiar home cartoons are shown on a huge screen. Schoolchildren, as well as adults, can take part in overcoming the obstacles located on the trees of the rope trails of another park - Arbre Aventura Park.
Gnome Park from July to September 11 is open daily from 11 am. In June, there is a day off on Mondays, and the rest of the year, the park is open only on weekends. A ticket, depending on the attractions, costs 10.8 or 14.5 EUR. The ticket price for the playground is 8.8 EUR, and for the ropes course - from 6 to 23 EUR.
Along with people, many cats live in Lloret de Mar. They are filled with self-esteem: after all, the city has a museum dedicated to them. Casa de los gatos is located on the central promenade, near the Church of San Roma. The museum was opened in 2002 by a Russian immigrant and lover of these independent and cute animals, Vera Novosyolova. On three floors of the mansion, you can see more than six thousand images of cats - ceramic, wooden, porcelain, silver. Paintings on the walls and household items are also profile-oriented.
Cat positions in the city are very strong. Every year in March, the city hosts the festival "Catalonia - the birthplace of the Moon Cat", organized by the city hall and the Museum of Cats. The festive procession is led by the feline royal couple.
Address Casa de los gatos: Carrer Sant Albert, 10. Opening hours - daily from 10 am to 5 pm, ticket price -3 EUR.
Water World is a park of various water entertainments of different difficulty levels. Among the extreme ones are the 260-meter X-treme Mountain with steep turns and jumps, the Kamikaze descent and the 80-meter bungee jumping (a stretchable inertial rubber rope for jumping). On the territory of the children's island - small pools with low slides.
From the main resort towns of the Costa Brava, free buses run to the water park. They depart every half an hour from 9 am to 11 am and from 4 pm to 6 pm.
The water park is open in May-October from 10 am to 6 pm (in July - to 7 pm). Entrance ticket price - 33 EUR, for children from 80 to 120 cm tall - 19 EUR, below 80 cm - free of charge. You can also buy a family ticket for 85 EUR, or a combined ticket to Water World and Aquadiver in Playa de Aro - 95 EUR.
Cemetery sculptures
At first glance, the presence of such a specific object in the list of attractions is surprising. But the city cemetery next to the bus station could well be called a museum of modernist architecture. In the XVIII-XIX centuries. the inhabitants of Lloret de Mar who succeeded in America and returned back built not only villas for themselves, but also family crypts and mausoleums. Their orders were carried out by eminent masters, including the followers of Gaudi. Just like in a sculpture museum, the plate indicates the author and features of the work, and in three languages - Catalan, Spanish and English.
Objects related to Salvador Dali
The cultural attractions of the Costa Brava region are mainly associated with the life and work of the famous outrageous surrealist artist Salvador Dali.
The city of Figueres is the birthplace of one of the founders of surrealism, the artist Salvador Dali. In Figueros there is his museum, officially called the theatre-museum. Facade Teatro-Museo Dali looks more than original (matching the work and life of Dali): a medieval castle painted in bright red with dozens of huge chicken eggs on the roof. The walls are interspersed with bulges of bread. Extravagant and outrageous Dali fetishized bread and eggs.
Salvador Dali Museum (Teatro-Museo Dalí)
The artist took an active part in the creation of his museum. With the dilapidated building of the old city theater, he had childhood memories of his first exhibited works. However, the Madrid Department of Fine Arts agreed to finance the creation of the museum only on condition that the original paintings of the artist were transferred to it, which Dali refused for a long time. The artist also invested his own funds in the creation of the museum.
Fans of Dali's work can see more than four thousand works of art created by him in the exhibition. In addition to paintings, these are sculptures, photographs, engravings and even jewelry.
The most famous exhibit is the illusion painting “Naked Gala looking at the sea”. Dali's wife depicted on the canvas from a distance of 20 m turns into a portrait of Abraham Lincoln. The photo below shows the famous room of Hollywood actress Mae West with eye paintings, a fireplace nose and sofa lips.
According to his will, Dali is buried in the crypt of the museum.
Address: Gala-Salvador Dalí Square, 5. The start of work, depending on the tourist season, varies from 9 to 10:30, and the end - from 18 to 20 hours. The cost of the entrance ticket is 14 EUR. Visitors are allowed in groups of up to 8 people every 10 minutes.
Dali House Museum
In the 30s of the last century, Dali and Gala (“swallow” - as he called his wife Elena Dyakonova) acquired a fishing house in the Port Lligat Bay near the town of Cadaqués. Over the following decades, they gradually bought up the unsightly neighboring buildings and turned them into a single multi-level surreal maze house. It is easily identified by the huge egg on the roof.
The house-museum is not as outrageous as the theater-museum in Figueros. There are numerous stuffed animals and birds, cages for cicadas in the bedroom, a pool in the shape of a phallus and a sofa in the shape of a woman's lips in the gazebo next to it.
IN summer time, or rather, from June 15 to September 15, the house-museum can be visited at 9:30–21, in other months - at 10:30–18. One month a year, namely from January 11 to February 11, the museum is closed. Similar to the museum-theater in Figueros, visitors enter every 10 minutes in groups of no more than 8 people. The price of the entrance ticket is 11 EUR.
Gala Dali Castle
Castell Gala-Dalí or - the castle of the XI century. in the village of Púbol in the province of Girona. In 1968, Salvador Dali fulfilled the promise given to his wife in his youth to give the castle.
After acquiring a dilapidated castle, it was restored with the preservation, at the request of Dali, of some destroyed fragments. The architectural ensemble of the castle is made up of a manor-palace, a functioning parish church and adjacent outbuildings. The main facade of the castle has retained most of the architectural details in the Gothic and Renaissance styles. These are arches, windows, reliefs, portals.
Gala Dali Castle (Castell de Púbol)
It is interesting that Gala, having thanked for the gift, set a strict condition for her husband to come to the castle only with her written permission. Oddly enough, the masochistic-minded artist happily agreed. In general, the relationship between Dali and Gala was very peculiar ...
In the attic there is a permanent exhibition of hundreds of luxurious Gala outfits, not only from Pierre Cardin and Christian Dior, but also created by Dali himself.
The entire interior of the castle with wall paintings, pseudo-three-dimensional visual tricks, sculptures, antiques was created by Dali. One of the optical illusions depicted a seemingly very long alley with a statue installed at its end. In the Armorial Hall, Dali even provided a throne for Gala with sculptures of lions lying on both sides of it, but it was completed after her death. Sitting on it, Dali received visitors in last years life.
In the last years of her life, Gala spent the summer months in the castle. In 1982 she died here and was buried in the crypt of the church. After that, Dali, who began to develop parkinsonism, lived alone in the castle for two years, but in 1984 he almost died in a fire. From the hospital, he moved to the theater-museum in Figuerosa, where he spent the rest of his days.
Curated by the Gala Salvador Dalí Foundation, the castle is open to visitors from March 15 to December 31, daily, except Monday, from 10:30 to 20:00. Ticket price - 8 EUR. The Flaca bus stop is 2 km from the castle.
Other sights of the Costa Brava
Marineland located near the town of Blanes - the largest in the tourist region of the Costa Brava. In addition to the water park itself, this is a marine zoo and a dolphinarium. The attractions of the water park are very diverse, and are designed for families with children, as well as for fans of extreme sports. For them, there are: sliding on the Boomerang inflatable circle, the Tornado whirlpool, the steep descent of Kamikaze, the descent through the Black Hole tunnel. For lovers of swimming and sunbathing - three pools without slides, and for children and teenagers - moderate slopes and slides.
Aquapark "Marineland" (Marineland)
The dolphin show can be watched at 12:30 and 17:00, and the sea lion show at 12:00 and 16:30. Penguins are fed at 10:45 am and other birds at 5 pm.
The water park is open warm time year - from mid-May to September, at 10:30-17:30-19 hours. As well as to Water World, free buses run to the Marineland water park from the main resort towns of the Costa Brava. Tickets cost 26 EUR for an adult, 16 for children 5–10 years old, and 8 EUR for children 3–4 years old.
Fortress of Vila Velha
medieval fortress Villa Vella, towering on a cliff above the city of Tossa de Mar, was built in the XII century. to protect the city from pirates. Initially, the fortress had 7 towers. Later, instead of one of the towers, a lighthouse was built, which has survived to this day. It has an observation deck. In the XV-XVI centuries. inside the fortress there were about a hundred residential houses and a church. In some of them people still live, in others there are restaurants.
One of the three surviving towers houses a museum of works by artists who have ever worked in Tossa de Mar. Among them are Marc Chagall ("Heavenly Violinist") and Claude Monet. Even cannons were preserved in the fortress.
Buses run from other resorts on the Costa Brava to Tossa de Mar. The town itself is very small, so finding the castle is easy. It can be visited for free. A fee of 3 EUR is charged for visiting the museum or the lighthouse.
Jardin Botanica Marimutra on a mountain near Blanes was founded at the beginning of the 20th century. German botanist Karl Faust. The name Mar i Murtra - "sea and myrtle" is too modest for the diverse vegetation of the garden, which also grows palm trees, cacti, yucca, hydrangeas, fuchsias, pines, bamboo and jasmine. In total, more than four thousand trees and shrubs of three climatic zones are represented - tropical, Mediterranean and temperate.
Marimurtra Botanical Garden
Address in Blanes: Passeig de Carles Faust, 9. OPEN TOUR buses run from Plaça de Catalunya to the botanical garden, the schedule of which can be viewed on a pole next to the stop. Travel time is only 15 minutes. The botanical garden, depending on the time of year, opens at 9–10 am and closes at 5–20 pm. The entrance ticket costs 4 EUR.
Pinya de Rosa- a tropical botanical garden located between the cities of Blanes and Lloret de Mar. In the middle of the XX century. The idea of cactus lover Don Fernando de Carat Riviera was realized by the architect Raymond Durand. More than seven thousand species of tropical flora grow everywhere, and the collections of cacti, agave, scarlet, yucca and prickly pear are among the best in the world. The name of one of the types of prickly pear (a kind of cactus) gave the name to the whole garden. It is often called cactus.
Botanical Garden Pinya Rosa (Pinya de Rosa)
As well as to the Marimurtra garden, to the cactus garden, located 2 km from Blanes, OPEN TOUR tourist buses run from Plaça de Catalunya, which will take tourists in the same 15 minutes. The Pinya de Rosa garden can be visited from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. You have to pay 4 EUR for the entrance.
Archipelago Illes Medes consists of six seemingly inconspicuous islands a mile off the coast of the small resort town of l'Estartit. However, their underwater flora and fauna are so diverse that the islands have been declared a marine reserve. The underwater world around the islands is very beautiful and is considered a paradise for diving enthusiasts.
Medes Islands
Ordinary tourists can also admire the beauty of the underwater world from the glass-bottom Nautilus pleasure boats plying to the islands from L'Estartit.
And on the beaches of the islands, they offer a variety of marine entertainment - scooters, the Fly Fish attraction (an inflatable mattress in the shape of a huge fish towed by a boat), surfing, renting a kayak or yacht.
Conclusion
As you can see, the tourist region of the Costa Brava is not deprived of sights. This review did not include interesting objects of the city, which are covered in a separate article on the site.
Nature gave these places amazing beauty - Dali himself was inspired by seascapes, and thousands of vacationers call this resort one of the best places in the Mediterranean. Three of the most famous tourist centers are located on the coast - Lloret de Mar, Blanes and Tossa de Mar.
The main occupation on the Costa Brava is a beach holiday. There are always a lot of young people here who prefer active entertainment, but if the soul does not lie in windsurfing and discos, go to the picturesque medieval castles or get acquainted with the work and life of Salvador Dali.
Sightseeing Costa Brava
In terms of cultural and historical coast is of considerable interest. Here, great attention is paid to the legacy of Salvador Dali: there is both an official museum (Figueres, Gala-Salvador Dali Square, 5) and the home of the great surrealist. It is located in Port Lligat, near the town of Cadaqués, where the artist was inspired by the amazing beauty of seascapes.
Be sure to go to Besala - a castle town that keeps the spirit of the early Middle Ages. Stone bridge, lowered gates, narrow streets and characteristic architectural style: you will get to know how the life of the townspeople was here 6-7 centuries ago. You can also get acquainted with the troubled past of these places by visiting the castle of Sant Joan, located on high mountain. From the 11th to the 18th centuries, they kept the defense from enemies from the sea, and today there is an amazing view of the sea panorama and the Lloret de Mar resort spread below. Entrance prices - from 3 to 5 euros.
The Clotilde Gardens is another must-see attraction: the picturesque complex is spread out on a mountainside, and its main walking path smoothly descends to the sea. If you have time, go to Cathedral Girona built in 1312. He has a wonderful museum with rare exhibits from the early Middle Ages, for example, the "Creation of the World" tapestry (11th century).
Beach holidays on the Costa Brava in 2020
The best time for a beach holiday on the Costa Brava is from May to October. Natural beaches are mostly pebbly: all the sand was brought here in the 1960s, when the coastal resorts began to gain popularity.
Entry into the sea in these places is not too smooth. Going on vacation with children, check out our list of the best beaches in this resort area - this will help make your vacation comfortable and safe.
The best beaches of the resort
- Lloret de Mar, the beach of the resort town of the same name (1.5 km). It is popular not only because of its cleanliness and location, but also due to its gentle entry into the sea. There are a lot of tourists and expensive rental of umbrellas and sunbeds (in 2020 - 10 euros). But you can lie on towels for free.
- Fenals(Lloret de Mar). Awarded the EU Blue Flag, clean, with a sharp drop in depth. There are much fewer people: if you want a more or less calm environment - you are here.
- Sa Abanel(Blanes). Good for everyone, including the length - 3 km. The only drawback: in the summer months, the appearance of jellyfish is possible.
- Almadrava(Roses). One of the best and picturesque beaches, which borders the Cape Creus National Park. Fine golden sand, natural protection from the winds, several cafes and boat rentals: everything you need for a good beach holiday.
- La Perola(Roses). One of the quietest beaches, ideal for families. There are almost no waves, but there is clean sand and crystal clear water. Awarded with the Blue Flag.
What to see and do on the Costa Brava
Holidays on the Costa Brava are very popular with young people. But for lovers of a more relaxing holiday, there will be something to do here. The main thing is to decide on a suitable resort: the benefit of 200 kilometers of coast can offer a good choice.
Must get to:
- Chocolate factory in Girona. A zoo works with her: a good opportunity to please the sweet tooth and see with your own eyes how the bars are made.
- Lake Banyoles. Lakes in Spain are a rarity: Banyoles, for example, is considered the second largest, although it has an area of only two kilometers. The forests on the coast are very picturesque, and the nearby La Carpa restaurant will delight you with fresh fish dishes.
- Empuriabrava area. In another way, this resort area is called "Spanish Venice": instead of streets, there are canals, and instead of cars, boats and boats. In general, if you have time - get out, you will not regret it.
