What Is the Costa Brava?

The Costa Brava is a striking coastal region in the northeast of Spain, in Catalonia. Its name means “Wild Coast” or “Rough Coast” in Catalan and Spanish, which fits its rocky cliffs, quiet coves, and clean beaches. This Mediterranean shoreline mixes natural beauty, a long history, and lively local life, making it a favorite holiday spot.

The area has changed over time, growing from small fishing towns into busy seaside resorts while keeping many authentic corners. You can walk through Roman ruins, follow the path of Salvador Dalí, and meet new artists who still draw ideas from the same landscapes. Whether you want adventure, rest, or culture, the Costa Brava offers a wide range of experiences.

Where Is Costa Brava Located?

The Costa Brava sits in the Province of Girona, part of Catalonia in northeastern Spain. It runs from Blanes, about 60 kilometers northeast of Barcelona, up to the French border. Its position brings together many influences and landscapes, from sunny beaches to the nearby Girona Pyrenees.

Barcelona is around 80 km away, so reaching the area is easy for both local and overseas travelers. Facing the Mediterranean Sea gives it a pleasant climate and varied wildlife, making it a good choice at many times of the year.

How Did the Costa Brava Get Its Name?

Journalist Ferran Agulló i Vidal coined the name “Costa Brava” in September 1908. Writing in the Catalan newspaper La Veu de Catalunya, he used the term for the rugged coast from the Tordera River near Blanes to Banyuls-sur-Mer in France. The name caught on, and by the 1960s it became official in tourism campaigns.

Other ideas were Costa Grega (Greek Coast), linked to ancient Greek-Phoenician sites like Empúries, and Costa del Corall (Coral Coast). Still, “Wild Coast” best described the area’s raw scenery and stuck with visitors.

Which Areas Are Included in the Costa Brava?

Traditionally, the Costa Brava covers the shoreline from Blanes to the French border. The Costa Brava Girona Tourism Board promotes a wider area of 5,885 square kilometers. This includes the coastal comarques of Alt Empordà, Baix Empordà, and Selva, plus the inland comarques of Pla de l’Estany and Gironès. This view highlights much more than beaches: it also includes towns, lakes, and hills.

The north belongs to Alt Empordà, shaped by the Albera Massif and Cap de Creus, the eastern tip of the Pyrenees. The center lies in Baix Empordà, known for pretty coastal villages and the Gavarres Massif. The south is Selva, home to resorts like Lloret de Mar and, inland, the peaceful Montseny Natural Park.

Geography and Climate of Costa Brava

Here, mountains meet the sea, creating many different views and places to explore. A mild Mediterranean climate supports its lasting appeal.

You’ll see pine-topped cliffs above turquoise coves, long sandy shores, and open plains. This natural setting supports rich wildlife and offers space for hiking, cycling, swimming, and more.

Physical Features and Natural Landscapes

The coast runs for over 200 kilometers with many landforms. Near France, the shoreline is rough and steep, with small hidden bays. Further south, the flatlands of Alt Empordà lead to the wide beaches of the Gulf of Roses.

Inland, several massifs shape the area. The Albera Massif and Cap de Creus define the north. The Montgrí Massif runs from L’Escala to L’Estartit, adding a wild contrast to the coast. The Gavarres Massif reaches the sea in the central coast, forming rugged cliffs and coves. In the south, the Ardenya (Cadiretes) Massif adds more drama to the shoreline. Over 30% of Girona province is protected land, showing the region’s strong focus on nature.

Climate Patterns and Best Times to Visit

The Costa Brava has a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cooler, mild winters. Average temperatures range from about 7°C in winter to 28°C in summer, with the warmest months in July and August.

Summer is best for beach time and swimming. For fewer crowds and milder days, late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) are great. March can reach highs of around 17°C, so outside of peak season you can still enjoy outdoor activities.

Important Rivers and Coastal Areas

Several rivers play an important role in shaping the coast and wetlands. The Tordera River reaches the sea near Blanes and marks the southern edge of the Costa Brava. North of it, the Muga and Fluvià rivers help form marshes in the Gulf of Roses, feeding the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park.

The Ter River flows into the sea near L’Estartit by the Medes Islands. Where these rivers meet the sea, they create long beaches, marshes, and marine reserves. The Gulf of Roses is a major bay for windsurfing, and the Medes Islands are famous for rich sea life.

History of Costa Brava

The Costa Brava’s past reaches back thousands of years. It has seen ancient settlers, war and recovery, and a late rise as a major vacation area. Each period left clear marks on the land and local life.

From early trade to package tourism, the region kept much of its heritage while growing. Knowing this path helps you see the modern Costa Brava with fresh eyes.

Major Historical Events

For a long time, locals mainly used the beaches, while places like the Côte d’Azur drew overseas visitors before World War I. After the Spanish Civil War and the easing of Spain’s isolation in the 1950s, the Costa Brava became a target for new development.

Hotels and apartments rose fast in towns like Blanes, Tossa de Mar, and Lloret de Mar, serving package tours from Northern Europe, especially the UK and France. Tourism soon passed fishing as the main industry. In 1998, the Carta de Tossa showed a joint promise by coastal towns to balance tourism with nature protection.

Influence of Ancient Civilizations

Long before modern travelers, early peoples settled here. The Greek colony of Empúries, founded in 575 BC, became a trading hub. Today you can walk among Greek and Roman remains at Empúries and get a clear view of life in those times, one reason “Costa Grega” was once proposed as a name.

Echoes of Greek and Roman culture still show up in sites and traditions. This deep past adds a rich layer to any visit.

Development of Tourism

The big change began in the 1950s. Warm summers, strong beaches, and a favorable exchange rate drew many visitors. New hotels and apartments appeared, especially in Lloret de Mar and Blanes.

While some areas saw heavy building, others kept their classic style. Cadaqués stayed smaller, drawing artists and thinkers. Today, new Catalan creators live and work here, keeping a balance between modern comforts and care for nature and history.

Culture and Traditions

The Costa Brava offers much more than scenery. Language, festivals, and art give the area a clear Catalan identity. This mix turns a beach trip into a deeper cultural visit.

History, creativity, and strong local communities create a warm, authentic feel. Exploring these parts helps you connect with the spirit of the “Wild Coast.”

Languages Spoken in Costa Brava

Across the Costa Brava and the rest of Catalonia, three official languages exist: Catalan, Castilian Spanish, and Aranese. Aranese is mainly heard in the Val d’Aran. Catalan is the daily language for most people here, used at home, in public life, and at events.

Most residents also speak Castilian Spanish, so visitors can communicate easily. Many workers in tourism speak English and other European languages, which makes travel and daily needs simple for most people.

Traditional Festivals and Public Holidays

Festivals and holidays fill the calendar. Public holidays include New Year’s Day (January 1), Labour Day (May 1), Saint John’s Day (June 24), and the Catalan National Day (September 11). People gather to share meals and watch performances.

Local events add extra color. In Verges, the “Dansa de la Mort” (Dance of Death) on Maundy Thursday features skeleton costumes. Arbúcies lays floral carpets. Music is key, from classical to pop, rock, havaneres, and the Catalan sardana. The Cap Roig Garden Festival and the Peralada Castle International Music Festival bring in performers from around the world.

Museums and Art Collections

The region holds nearly fifty museums and collections across five counties, covering archaeology, local life, modern art, and more. Visitors can explore many themes and time periods.

Top stops include the Archaeology Museum of Catalonia-Empúries in L’Escala and the Fishing Museum in Palamós. In Girona city, you’ll find the Archaeology Museum of Catalonia-Girona, the Cinema Museum, the Art Museum of the Province of Girona, and the Jewish Heritage Museum Collection. There is something for every curious traveler.

The Dalí Triangle and Salvador Dalí’s Influence

Salvador Dalí is central to art on the Costa Brava. The “Dalí Triangle” links three key places: the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres, his birthplace and one of Catalonia’s most visited museums; his House-Museum in Port Lligat near Cadaqués, where he lived and worked; and the Gala Dalí Castle House-Museum in Púbol, a medieval castle he restored for Gala.

Dalí helped shape the area’s art scene and drew other artists like Joan Miró and Pablo Picasso. The strange rock shapes and light of Cap de Creus appear in many of his works. The Dalí Triangle shows his lasting legacy and is a must for art fans.

Notable Museums in the Region

Beyond Dalí sites, many other museums offer variety. In L’Escala, the Anchovy and Salt Museum tells the story of a local specialty. Castelló d’Empúries has the Museum Curia-Prison and the Ecomuseum-Flour Mill, focusing on medieval law and farming. Figueres also hosts the Museum of the Empordà and the National Toy Museum of Catalonia.

Torroella de Montgrí features the Museum of the Mediterranean. Inland, Banyoles offers the Regional Archaeological Museum and the Darder Museum on natural science and local history. Together, these collections keep regional stories alive.

Popular Towns and Destinations Along the Costa Brava

The Costa Brava is a patchwork of seaside towns and quiet inland villages. Each has its own style, from nightlife and beaches to medieval streets and art. Exploring them is like reading a good story, with new settings at every stop.

These places are living communities that show Catalan character. Whether you want bars and clubs, calm walks, or art and history, you will find a place that fits.

Alt Empordà: Highlights

Alt Empordà, the northernmost county, has dramatic scenery and strong culture. Figueres is the capital and famous as Salvador Dalí’s birthplace, with the Dalí Theatre-Museum drawing art lovers.

Cadaqués may be the most photogenic town on the coast. Its white houses and flowered lanes inspired Dalí, and his house in Port Lligat is open to visitors. Other stops include Portbou, the first town at the French border, known for its station; the fishing villages of Colera and Llançà; Roses with its wide beaches and history; and Empuriabrava, part of Castelló d’Empúries, with one of the largest marinas in the world.

Baix Empordà: Villages and Attractions

Baix Empordà forms the central section and is known for coves, medieval villages, and a low-key feel. La Bisbal d’Empordà is the capital, but many highlights sit on or near the coast.

Pals is a fine medieval village inland with stone streets. Begur crowns a hill with a castle and views, and its narrow lanes feature elegant 19th-century casas indianas. Palafrugell is a lively market town and a base for Calella de Palafrugell, Tamariu, and Llafranc, all calm former fishing hamlets. Palamós is a busy port with great seafood, while Castell-Platja d’Aro (including Platja d’Aro) offers a wide beach and lots of services.

La Selva: Towns to Visit

La Selva covers the southern end and stretches inland to Santa Coloma de Farners, its capital. It mixes big resorts with natural spots.

Lloret de Mar is probably the largest resort on the Costa Brava, known for nightlife and long beaches. Its summer population can top 200,000, drawing a younger crowd. North of Lloret, Tossa de Mar blends a medieval walled old town (Vila Vella) with beaches and coves, making it popular with families. Blanes, the southernmost town on the Costa Brava, is the third largest in Girona province and is known for its botanical gardens and links to writer Roberto Bolaño. Together they offer both energy and history.

Beaches, Coves, and Coastal Attractions

The coastline is the star of the Costa Brava. Where the Pyrenees meet the sea, you find long sands and tiny inlets, big cliffs and clear water. The “Wild Coast” lives up to its name with bold scenery and plenty of spots to swim or relax.

There are 199 marked beaches and coves. Below are highlights across the main counties.

Famous Beaches of Alt Empordà

Alt Empordà has everything from long sands to small rocky corners. The Gulf of Roses hosts wide beaches in Roses (Salatar, Santa Margarida, La Nova, La Punta, El Rastrell, Palangrers, Almadrava, Canyelles), Empuriabrava (la Rubina, Empuriabrava, Can Comes), and Sant Pere Pescador (Sant Pere, La Gola, La Txarraca, Les Dunes). Windsurfers love this bay, and there’s space for many water sports.

Near France, the coast turns rugged. Cadaqués has beaches like Portal, Port Lligat, Ses Oliveres, Gran, Caials, Es Poal, Llané Gran, and Port-Alguer, plus coves such as S’Alqueria, Bona, Sa Conca, Ros, Fredosa, Culip, Guillola, and Jugadora. L’Escala offers beaches including Riells, Riuet, Sant Martí d’Empúries, L’Escala, Moll Grec, Les Muscleres, Rec del Molí, Port d’en Perris, and Portitxol, with coves like Mateua Island, Montgó, and La Creu.

Scenic Coves of Baix Empordà

Baix Empordà is known for sheltered coves tucked between pine-covered cliffs. Begur stands out for Racó, Fona, Aiguablava, and Sa Riera. Sa Tuna, Aiguafreda, l’Illa Roja, and Fornells offer clear water and rocky settings, great for swimming and snorkeling. The Camí de Ronda between Sa Riera and Sa Tuna is a lovely walk with small pebble beaches.

Near Palafrugell, Calella de Palafrugell has beaches like Sant Roc/dels Canyers, Canadell, Calau, Platgeta, Port de la Mala Espina, and Port Pelegrí, plus coves such as the Russian Bath/Massoni, Golfet, and Port Bo. Tamariu includes the Beach of Lliris and coves like Tamariu, Aigua Dolça, Aigua Xelida, Marquesa, and Pedrosa. Palamós mixes larger beaches like La Fosca and Castell with small coves such as S’Alguer and Estreta.

Seaside Spots in La Selva

La Selva hosts some of the biggest resorts as well as peaceful bays. Lloret de Mar offers Lloret de Mar Beach, Fenals, Sa Boadella, Treumal, Cala Canyelles, and Santa Cristina, with lots of services and activities.

Tossa de Mar blends history and beaches. Main sands include the Beach of Tossa de Mar and Mar Menuda. Around town, you’ll find coves like Porto Pi, Figuera, Carles, D’es Codolar, Bona, Salions, Futadera, Giverola, Llevadó, Morisca, and Pola, some below the old town walls. Blanes features S’Abanell, Blanes, Punta de Santa Anna, Treumal, and the Bay Saint Francis.

Nature Parks and Outdoor Activities

Beyond beaches, the Costa Brava has protected parks and varied landscapes, from marshes to mountain massifs. These areas shelter many plant and animal species and invite hiking, cycling, and quiet walks. Agreements like the Carta de Tossa show a shared goal to protect these places.

Whether you enjoy long trails, birdwatching, or peaceful viewpoints, the parks and reserves offer many choices.

Protected Natural Parks

Three major natural parks stand out for variety and conservation. They are also great places for outdoor fun.

Cap de Creus Natural Park

At the northern tip near Port de la Selva, Cap de Creus is one of the most unusual landscapes on the Iberian Peninsula. Here the Pyrenees reach the sea with harsh cliffs, wind-shaped rocks, and small bays. The park covers 13,886 hectares (10,813 on land and 3,073 at sea). Towns like El Port de la Selva, Roses, and Cadaqués lie within its limits. The views, especially from the lighthouse, are striking.

Aiguamolls de l’Empordà

Between Castelló d’Empúries-Empuriabrava, Sant Pere Pescador, and Roses, this is Catalonia’s second-largest wetland. Formed by the Muga and Fluvià rivers, it is a key stop for migratory birds. Split into two main areas around the Muga, it offers hides for birdwatching and sometimes flamingo sightings. Protection stopped heavy building here and kept an important habitat intact.

Montseny Natural Park

Inland in the south near Arbúcies (Selva), Montseny is the highest part of the Catalan pre-coastal range and spans both Barcelona and Girona provinces. Big changes in altitude create different environments, with oak, pine, cork, and beech forests. Many species common to cooler climates find shelter here. It’s a fine place for hiking and a complete change from the sea.

Wildlife Reserves and Natural Areas

Beyond the main parks, several other protected zones add to the area’s rich wildlife and offer unique visits.

Medes Islands

Off L’Estartit, the seven Medes Islands form Spain’s first marine reserve. Sea life thrives here thanks to rich waters fed by the River Ter. You’ll find gull colonies, rare plants, and colorful underwater scenes with algae and corals. It’s one of the best diving spots in the country, with controlled access.

Albera Massif

At the far north near La Jonquera and Espolla, the Albera Massif links Pyrenean mountains with Mediterranean habitats, creating a wide mix of plants and animals. It also has one of Catalonia’s largest collections of megalithic sites and several small Romanesque churches, bringing nature and history together.

Montgrí Massif

Between Alt and Baix Empordà, the limestone Montgrí Massif separates the bays of Roses and Ter. It looks wild and bare in places, with pines and hardy shrubs, and adds fresh variety to the coast. Secluded coves like Ferriol and Pedrosa show off its untamed side.

Gardens and Botanical Attractions

The Costa Brava also shines with beautiful gardens. These green spaces pair careful planting with sea views and historic settings. Each garden brings a different set of plants, from Mediterranean species to exotics.

They are works of art and places of calm, offering high viewpoints and a closer look at local nature. They match the coastline well and give you time to slow down.

Cap Roig Gardens

In Calella de Palafrugell (Baix Empordà), Cap Roig is one of Catalonia’s most varied botanical gardens. Russian colonel Nicolai Woevodsky and English aristocrat Dorothy Webster started it in 1927. Set above El Golfet beach, it blends Mediterranean plants with species from five continents. There is also a sculpture area and a castle in a medieval style. With 800+ plant species, colorful roses, and oleanders under tall palms, the gardens are a feast for the senses. In summer, the Cap Roig Garden Festival brings major concerts.

Santa Clotilde Gardens

In Lloret de Mar (Selva), the Santa Clotilde Gardens show noucentista design by Nicolau Maria Rubió i Tudurí (1919). Built on a cliff above the sea, they offer grand views. Inspired by the Italian Renaissance, they use terraces, stairs, fountains, and marble statues. Few flowers appear by design; greenery and structure take center stage, giving the space a calm, classical feel.

Marimurtra Botanical Garden

On the cliffs of Mount Sant Joan de Blanes, Marimurtra was founded in 1921 by German scientist Karl Faust. It grew into an important biological station in the Mediterranean. The garden hosts local and global species, including Chilean palms, bamboos, and plants from Africa and Mexico. The sea views are superb, blending science and beauty.

Pinya de Rosa Tropical Botanical Garden

Also in Blanes, Pinya de Rosa focuses on tropical plants adapted to the Mediterranean climate. Founded in 1954 by Ferdinand Rivière Caralt, it includes large collections of cacti, Opuntias, and aloes mixed with local plants. It shows how different species can thrive here and creates a striking look for plant lovers.

Gastronomy and Wines of Costa Brava

The Costa Brava is a great place to eat and drink. Catalan cooking blends “sea and mountain” ingredients, with fresh fish from the coast and produce from inland fields. Dishes tell a local story through simple, clear flavors.

The area also pushes new ideas in food and has many Michelin-starred restaurants. Local wine has grown fast in quality, making the region a fine choice for food and wine trips.

Local Cuisine and Notable Dishes

Seafood leads the way: anchovies from L’Escala, prawns from Palamós, monkfish from Roses, and blue fish from Sant Feliu de Guíxols. Cooks often keep recipes simple to let the ingredients shine.

From the land, you’ll find turnips from Campmany, onions from Vilabertran and Figueres, rice from Montgrí, beans and peas from Vall d’Aro, and apples from Girona. Favorites include escalivada (fire-roasted vegetables) and pa amb tomàquet (bread with tomato and olive oil). With 2,500+ restaurants across Girona’s counties, you have many ways to taste local flavors.

Michelin-Starred Restaurants

The Costa Brava’s fine dining scene draws food lovers worldwide. Around Girona, several restaurants hold Michelin stars and focus on creativity, top ingredients, and careful technique.

Celler de Can Roca is a standout, often ranked among the best globally, and known for pushing Catalan cuisine forward. These places offer more than a meal-they create memorable dining moments and show how strong the local food movement is.

Wines and Wine Tourism Experiences

Wine has deep roots here, especially in Alt and Baix Empordà under the DO Empordà label. Vines have grown in this area for over 2,500 years, with a clear rise in quality since the mid-1990s thanks to smaller, focused wineries.

Empordà wines now earn high marks from international critics, and wine tourism is thriving. Visits include vineyard tours and tastings. Main red grapes are Carignan (“Samsó”) and Grenache (“Lledoner”), with Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah also present. Whites include Grenache Blanc, Macabeo, and Muscat, plus smaller plantings of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. The Empordà D.O. Wine Route is a good way to explore.

Adventure and Leisure Activities

The Costa Brava offers active fun and quiet breaks. You can try water sports, follow trails, play golf, or relax in a spa. The mix of sea, hills, and villages gives you new options every day.

From sunny bays to the foothills of the Pyrenees, there is always something new to try and enjoy.

Water Sports and Activities

The coast is perfect for water sports. Clear water and varied shores suit easy swims and high-energy action. Snorkeling and diving are favorites, especially around the protected Medes Islands, which have some of Spain’s richest sea life.

You can also kayak and paddleboard along coves and caves. Windsurfing is popular in the Bay of Roses. Sailing and boat tours give you a fresh view of the coast. Many towns offer jet-skiing, parasailing, and guided fishing trips, so water lovers can pick what suits them best.

Cycling and Hiking Routes

The area is excellent for walking and cycling. Trails range from short strolls to tough climbs. The Camí de Ronda, a historic coast path, runs almost 90 miles and offers views of cliffs, coves, and pines. The section between Sa Riera and Sa Tuna is especially scenic.

Road cyclists enjoy quiet routes through villages, vineyards, and along the sea. Mountain bikers find good tracks in places like the Sant Daniel Valley on the west side of the Gavarres hills. With both coastal and inland options, riders of all levels can find a good route.

Golf Courses and Wellness Retreats

Golfers can choose from several quality courses set in beautiful surroundings, with sea or countryside views. Facilities suit beginners and experienced players alike.

Wellness breaks are growing too. Many resorts offer spas, yoga, and meditation. The calm settings and pleasant weather make it easy to slow down and recharge.

Nature and Wildlife Experiences

Protected areas give many chances to meet local wildlife. Aiguamolls de l’Empordà is a favorite for birdwatchers, especially during migrations.

Cap de Creus offers unusual rock formations and wild coastal trails. The Medes Islands reveal underwater life through snorkeling and diving. Inland, Montseny and the Albera Massif provide forests, mountain species, and quiet paths. These places highlight the region’s raw appeal and care for nature.

Weekend Getaway Recommendations

With a weekend, you can see a lot. Split your time between Cadaqués and Begur to enjoy both art and medieval charm. In Cadaqués, visit Dalí’s House-Museum and wander the whitewashed streets, then pause for a coffee at Bar Casino or a drink at the Marítim Bar.

Move on to Begur to explore its lanes, climb to the Castell de Begur for big views, and eat classic Catalan dishes at a cozy place like Casa Juanita. For stays, try the stylish Can Set in Cadaqués or the mid-century look of Parador de Aiguablava near Begur. For glamping, WeCamp has tents and cabins in spots like Cadaqués and Santa Cristina. You’ll get a mix of culture, views, and beach time in just a few days.

Frequently Asked Questions about Costa Brava

Planning a trip brings many questions. To help you plan your visit and make the most of your time on this coastline, here are clear answers to common questions about the best times to go, how to get around, and what to see.

What Is the Best Time to Visit?

The Costa Brava has a mild climate and welcomes visitors most of the year. Your best time depends on your plans.

For beach days and water sports, July and August are the warmest, with highs around 28°C. This is peak season, with bigger crowds and higher prices, and a lively scene in places like Lloret de Mar.

For fewer people and nicer walking weather, May-June and September-October are great. It’s warm enough to hike the Camí de Ronda, cycle, and explore towns. In early autumn, the sea often stays warm. If you watch your budget, hotel prices tend to be lowest from September to November.

How to Get Around the Costa Brava?

You can move around the Costa Brava in several ways:

Renting a car gives the most freedom, especially for remote coves or tight schedules. It lets you stop at viewpoints and reach places like Cadaqués, which sits at the end of a winding road.

Public buses link many towns. They work, but some routes are slow, and reaching small villages can be tricky. Check schedules in advance, especially outside peak season.

Active travelers can hike and cycle. The Camí de Ronda reaches scenic spots that cars cannot. Quiet back roads and varied terrain also make cycling popular. Taxis and ride-share options exist in bigger towns, but long rides can be pricey.

What Are the Top Must-See Places?

There is a lot to choose from, but these highlights stand out:

1. The Dalí Triangle: Visit the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres, the House-Museum in Port Lligat (Cadaqués), and the Gala Dalí Castle in Púbol.
2. Cadaqués: A beautiful white village at Cap de Creus with deep art ties. Walk the lanes and tour Dalí’s home.
3. Girona City: Not on the coast, but full of history. Explore the cathedral, medieval quarter, and Jewish Quarter. Parts of “Game of Thrones” were filmed here.
4. Empúries: Wander Greek and Roman ruins at a key ancient port on the Catalan coast.
5. Medes Islands: A must for divers, snorkelers, and boat tours to see rich marine life.
6. Medieval Villages: Head inland to Pals and Begur. Pals has a well-kept old center; Begur offers castle views of the sea and Pyrenees.
7. Coastal Coves and Beaches: See classic spots near Begur (Aiguablava, Sa Riera, Sa Tuna) and the busy beaches of Tossa de Mar and Lloret de Mar.
8. Botanical Gardens: Find calm and views at Cap Roig or Marimurtra.

These places blend art, history, nature, and rest, giving a clear picture of what makes the Costa Brava special.