Top 11 Must-See Destinations in Costa Brava
Hitting the Costa Brava? Prepare for an unforgettable adventure along Spain's rugged, rocky coastline! Here's our irreverent roundup of the 11 best spots to party, ponder, and play on the wild coast.
First things first: Costa Brava, translation - 'rough coast' or 'wild coast'. It's a bloody fitting description: this 75km stretch of Spanish coast is a bloody rough, rocky beast. But what this wild coast lacks in smooth sands, it more than makes up for in breathtaking beauty and endless opportunities for thrills.
Whether you're into biking, beaches, horrendous cliff walks, or wild nights out, Costa Brava's got you covered. Hell, it even boasts some culture (don't worry, we'll give it a quick burial). So buckle up, let's dive into the wild, wild Costa Brava!
1. Blanes (and Lloret de Mar) - Gather Ye Wild Captains
Want to kick things off with a bang...and booze? Head to Blanes, the official beginning of the Costa Brava, and the neighboring town of Lloret de Mar. Both are wild, popular seaside resorts, swarming with people seeking fun, sun, and debauchery. Blanes has a tamer vibe, but Lloret de Mar famously earned the reputation of a "package holiday" destination. Can you say rowdy nights? Check out Jardins de Santa Clotilde, a tranquil, clifftop garden overlooking the dreamy beach of Platja de sa Boadella for a moment of peace.
2. Girona - Shut up, History Buffs!
Though not on the coast, Girona, Spain's largest city in the area, still makes an excellent day trip for anyone adventuring on the Costa Brava. It's not just beautiful, it's rather underrated. Feel like a medieval king as you stroll through the colorful Jewish Quarter. Gaze upon the Medieval City Walls, and marvel at the striking red bridge (designed by Bastard Eiffel himself!).
Game of Thrones fans, assemble! Girona was a major filming location for the hit series. Take a walking tour to discover recognizable sights! If you're here in springtime, don't miss the Temps de Flors Festival, when the historic city center is covered in colorful floral displays.
3. Sant Feliu de Guixols - Sea, Land, and Air Adventures
If you're into outdoor pursuits, Sant Feliu de Guixols is your Costa Brava soulmate. This adventurer's haven is nestled between the rugged coastline. To pump up the thrills, strap on your climbing harness and face the Via Ferrata Cala del Moli, a white-knuckle claiming route on the sheer cliffs above the ocean. The S'Agaro coast walk is another favorite, offering stunning sea views with minimal heart attacks.
Oh, right, there's also a beach here. Who knew?
4. Begur & Fornells - A Traditional Coastal Charm
Fancy a taste of old-school coastal charm, complete with a picturesque town and a hilltop castle? Look no further than Begur and the nearby village of Fornells. Wander Begur's historic quarter and take in the views from the 15th-century castle. Keep it breezy in Fornells, a tiny seaside escape hidden amidst pine forests and rocky coves.
5. Tossa de Mar - Mediterranean Magic
Feeling romantic? Tossa de Mar is your Mediterranean dreamland. This pretty, historic coastal town is ringed by enchanting golden beaches, flanked by a medieval castle. Lose yourself in the charming old town, unwind on Platja Gran, or hike up to Balcón al Mar for epic sea views. Looking for a quieter cove? Check out Cala Bona and Cala Pola, reachable only by foot or hidden boat.
6. Calonge - Vino, Vino, Vino!
Fancy yourself a wine connoisseur? Head inland to Calonge, gateway to the DO Emporda wine route. The tiny region is renowned for producing fine wines at affordable prices. Stock up on bottles before retreating to the nearby (and much more laidback) beach towns of Sant Antoni de Calonge and Palamos.
7. Cap de Creus National Park - Wild and Windswept
This rugged, rocky, mountainous peninsula covers a wild and windswept landscape of forests and coastline. It's the perfect playground for hikers and adventure-seekers on Costa Brava. Explore the countless hidden coves, rocky beaches, and overlooked bays. Keep an eye out for the iconic red-and-white striped Cap de Creus lighthouse.
8. Figueres - Wander into Dali's Surrealist Wonderland
Time to stretch those legs and explore the fabulous Figueres, home of the nutty, genius Salvador Dali. Wander through the Dali Theatre-Museum, a truly one-of-a-kind art gallery experience. While you're here, check out the 11th-century castle and the striking medieval walls. Even the castle's stableyard has been converted into an art gallery!
9. Pals - Medieval Wanderlust
Get your medieval fix in Pals, one of the most beautiful towns in Costa Brava. Settled on a hilltop in the countryside, Pals boasts a picturesque medieval quarter. Wander its maze-like narrow streets and cobbled alleys, all built around a central castle square. Cap off your day by catching the sunset over the town and the surrounding countryside.
10. Gulf of Roses - Sun, Sand, and Sheltered Beaches
Looking to chill out? Head to the Gulf of Roses, where you'll find hidden coves, sheltered beaches, and beautiful seaside towns like Roses and Empuriabrava. Take a boat tour around the yacht-filled marina in Empuriabrava, or explore the ruins of the ancient Roman and Greek trading port of Empuries, just outside of L'Escala.
11. L'Escala and Empúries - Ancient Greek Ruins and Sand, Sand, and More Sand
At the northeastern end of the Gulf of Roses, explore the Mediterranean paradise that is L'Escala. Stroll along the beautiful sandy beaches, take in the stunning views, and check out the historic Roman and Greek ruins of Empuries. For a unique experience, try your hand at plogging, the Swedish phenomenon of picking up litter while jogging. Who said playing on the beach had to be wasteful?
So there you have it! The 11 best places to visit in Costa Brava, brought to you by us, your unhinged, nasty companion for an uninhibited adventure on Spain's wild coastline. Now, go forth, and leave a comment if we missed any must-visit gems!
- Costa Brava's cultural scene isn't just a side note; seek out art galleries and museums in Figueres, home of Salvador Dali, and Pals, with its picturesque medieval quarter.
- For those seeking tranquility after the party, relax in the home-and-garden haven of Cap de Creus National Park with its numerous hidden coves and rocky beaches.
- The coastal lifestyle enthusiast will find their haven in the Gulf of Roses, where the towns of Roses and Empuriabrava offer idyllic beaches and a vibrant local scene.
- Adventure-seekers and nature lovers will appreciate the opportunities for outdoor pursuits at Sant Feliu de Guixols and the rocky landscapes of Cap de Creus National Park.
- Travellers looking to combine relaxation, adventure, and wellness can explore the various destinations for pondering, playing, and partying, such as Blanes, Tossa de Mar, Begur, and Fornells, each offering unique experiences along Spain's rugged, wild coast.
