Named for its rugged scenery, the Costa Brava is one of most picturesque coastal regions of Spain. Stretched along the coast of Girona, the northernmost province in Catalonia, it is characterised by steep, pine-forested hills that tumble down to the Mediterranean Sea and a string of pretty beaches.
Although it was the original Spanish package-tour destination of the 1950s - and there are certainly some busy resorts for those who want pumping nightlife and all-day breakfasts on the beach – there are also plenty of authentic fishing villages and little visited beaches to discover at the coast.
Beaches – from long white sweeps to sand, to horseshoe shaped bays and secluded coves - are certainly a top attraction in this region, but just a little inland there are also quaint medieval villages, lush countryside and well-maintained golf courses. Foodies will enjoy an abundance of fresh seafood, as well as some top-notch Michelin starred restaurants in the area. For culture buffs, this is the land that captivated Salvador Dali’s imagination and is the home of the Dali Triangle.
The cities of Girona and Barcelona are both easily accessible in a day as is the French town of Perpignan just across the border. All three cities are served by international airports.
Activities for adults
Via Ferrata
This climbing route (with cables and chains attached to the walls) is the only via ferrata in Europe that is located right by the sea. Access is free, but you need equipment to climb. There are different routes with different difficulty levels, making it suitable for both beginners and expert climbers of all ages. The starting point is Cala del Molí and several companies in the area offer equipment for rent. Check out more information here: www.viaferratacaladelmoli.com
Rent a boat
Rent a boat to go fishing or just to enjoy the beautiful views from the ocean and take a swim away from the crowds. One option is www.renteolo.com.
Shopping
In Playa D’Aro (a 15-minute drive from Sant Feliu de Guíxols) you will find plenty of stores selling well-known brands, as well as smaller shops, cafés and restaurants.
Enjoy the Art scene at the Espai Carmen Thyssen
The Espai Carmen Thyssen, located in the old monastery of Sant Feliu de Guíxols, is an arts centre devoted to temporary exhibitions. It showcases paintings from national and international artists that belong to the private collection of Carmen Thyssen, a famous Spanish art collector. While you are there, make sure to check out the monastery too.
Dali Theatre-Museum in Figueres and house in Portlligat
Art lovers cannot miss visiting the Dali Museum in Figueres (an hour drive from Sant Feliu de Guíxols). To make it a full “Dali day”, drive just a bit further north to Portlligat (next to Cadaqués, a lovely fishing village) and visit the artist’s labyrinthine house, where he lived and worked for many decades with his wife Gala. Tickets must be booked in advance on the museum’s website.
Activities for kids
Beach Day
There are many gorgeous beaches in the area, and Sant Feliu’s main beach is only a short walk away from the house. There is a playground for children, and in winter you’ll find restaurants where you can sit and enjoy the sun located at the end of the beach, on the north side. In the summer the beach restaurants (or “chiringuito” as they are called in Spanish) will be open for you to enjoy a drink or a meal on one of their couches while the kids play in the sand.
Another nice nearby beach is Sant Pol, which is a 10-minute drive away. You can also catch a little train on the beach in Sant Feliu that will take you there. The beach in Sant Pol offers lots of activities, including windsurfing, water-skiing, snorkelling or scuba diving. There are also lots of good restaurants and cafés to try.
Rosamar Cove is also worth visiting (but should be avoided on weekends in August). During the high season visitors must pay 10€ to park in the area, but it is worth it!
More information about beaches and coves can be found on the website www.guixols.cat
Parc Aventura in Sant Feliu de Guixols
This is an adventure park for kids and adults, with different climbing and rope circuits through the trees, as well as paintball and laser tag. The park also offers more challenging activities like a via ferrata, hiking, and canyoning with one of their experienced guides. They also rent equipment here if you want to do the via ferrata in Cala del Molí (see more details in the section about activities for adults). More informacion can be found on their website: www.parcaventurasantfeliu.com
Walks along the coast
The Costa Brava is known for its rugged coastline with many inlets. Some of these areas are almost impossible to access by car, which is why they remain practically untouched. There are several walks along the coastline (known as Caminos de Ronda), with different difficulty levels. The path from Sant Pol beach to Sant Feliu de Guíxols beach (about 5km round trip) is easily accessible, but bear in mind that there are several sections with stairs. An easy walk with kids is the stretch between Calella de Palafrugell and Llafranc: flat and with many places to stop, have a drink and take a break if needed. Make sure you pack comfortable and sturdy footwear and don’t forget the sunscreen.
