Catalonia is not only famous because of Barcelona and its history and culture. It is also famous for its beaches and beautiful seaside villages. Spain’s most famous coast is the Costa Brava, which is located in the Northern part of Catalonia. The shore is rocky and mountainous, with stunning views from above and small secret coves, therefore it got the name “rugged coast”.
1. Cadaqués
It is a seaside village situated in a beautiful bay on the Cap de Creus peninsula, at the northeastern tip of the Costa Brava. It is one of the most symbolic places on this coast. Cadaquès can be recognized by its whitewashed houses and its huge white church (Església de Santa Maria) which was constructed in the 16th century.
The town became famous when surrealist painters and writers from the past, such as Dalí, Lorca, Picasso, Miro and Chagall settled in Cadaqués. The special light, the artistic shapes of Cap de Creus and the beautiful nature, were the source of inspiration for their work.
Salvador Dalí has really put the town on the map. On the beach, you will find a statue in memory of this extraordinary artist. Dalí’s home, known as Casa-Museu Salvador Dalí, is located in Port Lligat and is now a museum.
Link to the Museum’s website
2. Tossa de Mar
Tossa de Mar is one of the most symbolic and photographed villages on the Costa Brava and the last fortified medieval town in Catalonia. In the “Vila Vella,” you can stroll around the cobbled stone medieval streets and walk along the fortified stone walls of the historic old town, which are still in its original state from the 14th century.
Tossa de Mar is a seaside village that has some amazing beaches. Platja Gran is the main beach of Tossa de Mar where you can enjoy the views of the old castle. It was ranked among the world’s 25 best beaches in 2013.
Nevertheless, it can be pretty crowded in the summer. Therefore, you might want to consider the other lovely beaches that are close by. “Cala Giverola” is a perfect alternative. You can enjoy this cove, nestled in the midst of nature, about 5 km north of Tossa. The welcoming colours of blue and green and the golden sand make this beach a perfect place for spending the day.
3. Begur
Begur is truly one of the hidden gems of the Costa Brava. It has a lot of historic sites, authentic restaurants, and some of the most scenic and well-preserved beaches in Catalonia. In addition to huge tourist crowds every year, especially locals from Catalonia spend the summer there.
An austere medieval castle dominates the seaside village of Begur. The old walls and defensive towers that were built in the 16th century are still well preserved. Moreover, the fishermen’s huts and the homes of the Indians, the emigrants who went to America to seek their fortune in colonial times, are quite interesting to visit as well.
If you need a little bit more excitement, we recommend trying canoeing, boat excursions, mountain bike tours or even golfing. Or take a walk along the beautiful coastal paths along the sea and simply enjoy the amazing views that Begur has to offer.
4. Pals
Pals is considered to be one of the most picturesque seaside villages along the Costa Brava. Pals, perched on a hilltop and constructed around a fortress, has maintained its medieval appearance so well that visiting it feels like stepping back in time.
The historical centre has been properly preserved, and local traditions and cuisine have been preserved to this day, making a visit to this village truly unique. Throughout the year, a variety of gastronomic and cultural events are held, and the surroundings are truly stunning, with an unspoiled beach, dunes, marshes, and rice fields all part of a natural park.
It is a peaceful place to walk about. Simply absorb its natural beauty and history. Surprising details and architectural features, such as stunning arches and doors, will be visible as you travel through the village, with flowers lending colour to the pretty stone walls.
5. Palafrugell
Some of the most magical places on this coast are Calella and its beach at Port Bo. The village preserves the original layout of the streets and its white houses on the shore.
This seaside village was the cork industry that made this town famous, and it was the cork industry that supported the Catalan vineyards by making corks for them. Cava corks are particularly famous in Palafrugell. While the final cork factory closed in the 1970s, the trace of cork production may still be felt and learned about at the museums.
In addition, about 30 kilometres away from this town are several intriguing ancient ruins worth seeing. The remains of Empúries are very stunning, with serene and well-preserved surroundings. These remains, which overlook the sea, contain over 2500 years of history that you should not miss!
