Costa Brava

Costa Brava Travel Guide

• About Costa Brava

  The Costa Brava, the rugged coast, is the popular coastal resort region of north eastern Catalonia in the Spanish province of Girona. This stunning 100 mile stretch of coast includes a variety of lively and quiet resorts, lots of bustling marinas as well as lush green hills, dramatic cliffs, fishing villages, coves and caves to explore. With a superb all year climate swimming and watersports form the main attractions of the region followed by evenings relaxing in waterfront tavernas or hillside restaurants. The Costa Brava also provides lots of ancient history to enjoy, including many fine castles and Roman and Moorish sites. The area is so beautiful it attracted world famous artists like Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso who made it their home.

• Travel

  Cheap flights are plentiful in the UK from all major airports and with around two hours flying time from London there is little to worry about getting there. Girona Costa Brava Airport is the main arrival destination for European visitors. Reus Airport is the closest to the resorts. Barcelona is another option.

• Climate

  An annual pleasant climate makes the Costa Brava one of the supreme resort destinations in Spain. The weather is extremely hot in July and August. The rest of the year is mainly temperate in the north and warm in the south. Spring or autumn are good times to visit although the Atlantic coast attracts heavy rains in October and November. August is the busiest month. May and October are the best times for the best weather and fewer crowds.

• Activities

  Go Fishing

  Fishing from the rocks is popular but results are better if you hire a boat and head out to sea. There is also abundant fresh water fishing at the River Ter, The River Segre and River Onyar. Barbel, carp, tench and eel, pike and carp are plentiful.

  A Round Of Golf

  There are several golf courses including the major Club de Golf de Pals near Begur, Club de Golf Costa Brava near Santa Cristina d'Aro and Reial Club de Golf de la Cerdanya near the French border.

  Theme Parks Fun

  The three most popular theme parks are Port Adventura, Waterworld and Marineland. Port Adventura is sited in the Costa Dorada but is within easy reach

• More Activities

  Scuba diving, Skiing, Tennis, Horse Riding, Yachting, Snorkelling, Hunting, Shooting, Bull fights, Museums and Galleries, Castles and Ruins, Walking, Mountain Biking.

• Attractions/Places

  Tossa De Mar

  Ancient town with a majestic castle towering over the medieval centre. The old town is fascinating and there are good beaches and restaurants. One of the gems of the Costa Brava.

  Medes Islands

  A mile from the resort town of L'Estartit the small Medes Islands are a major diving site. The protected archipelago of islets and reefs is an important marine reserve with thousands of marine, animal and plant species in underwater caves. The glass bottomed boat trips are recommended.

  Blanes

  Popular place on the coast north of Barcelona. The Mari Mirtra gardens are a must for nature lovers while market days on the promenade, including a fruit and vegetable market create a pleasant atmosphere. Several interesting historical buildings.

  Barcelona

  Only a two hour train journey a day trip to Barcelona is worth considering. One of the most cosmopolitan and striking cities in the world. Gaudi's famous architecture, the amazing Picasso museum, superb shopping and bars.

  Girona

  One of the most important historical cities sites in Spain with numerous ancient Rome and Moor attractions. The honeycombed old quarter includes a 12th Century Benedictine monastery. There are also superb bars, shops and restaurants. Another easy day trip.

  Roses

  This beautiful small historical town is perfectly located in a bay to the north of Costa Brava near the French border. The Citadel to the east of the town was built 500 years ago. Two natural reserves form a bird watchers paradise. There are endless white sand beaches.

  Estartit

  Coastal charming fishing town near Girona. A good mix of shops and restaurants. The resort overlooks the Medes islands and is an ideal place for swimming, scuba or snorkelling.

  Vall de Nuria Rack Rail

  About two hours from the coast are the southern slopes of the western Pyrenees. This scenic railway journey takes you to Vall de Nuria north of Girona, surrounded by mountain peaks and passes that form a massive amphitheatre.

  Cadaques

  A busy fishing village close to the French border and close to the Pyrenees. There is an attractive natural harbour, excellent restaurants, galleries, fashion and art and craft shops. Also includes the former home of surrealist painter Salvador Dali now a museum.

  Salvador Dali House

  The former home of Salvador Dali, in which Dali lived for 40 years, is in Portlligat Bay. You can visit this eccentric house and garden with its mass of small fishing huts. Tours must be pre-booked.

  Water World

  Near Lloret De Mar. Tubes, rapids, wave pool, Jacuzzis and slides offer endless fun. There are also cafes, shops and lots of places to relax.

  Banyoles

  Historic lakeside town north of Girona which is a perfect spot for swimming, cruises, boat hires, rowing, sunbathing and cycling. Its bright blue lake is services by two underground rivers. The town of Banyoles is also interesting featuring a Benedictine monastery and other ancient buildings.

• Key Facts

  • Costa Brava - Coastal region, Northern Catalonia
  • Time Zone - GMT 1
  • Language - Spanish, Catalan
  • Money - Euro