Stretching from Blanes to Portbou near the French border, the Costa Brava is more than 200km of rugged coastline and often virgin nature. Hence the name ‘brava’, which means wild in Catalan. It’s where you’ll also find some of the best diving spots in Spain, especially off the Medes Islands, making it a magnet for water sports enthusiasts from all over the world. They come here for the diving, snorkelling and sailing. But there’s more to the Costa Brava than water and nature – it also has historic beautiful villages that have much to offer visitors. Excursions to Barcelona and medieval Girona are also among the best things to do on the Costa Brava.
The six best things to do on the Costa Brava
1. Explore beautiful coastal villages
There are no fewer than 24 seaside villages on the Costa Brava and each is more beautiful than the other. The southernmost town is Blanes. Here you will find a long promenade with numerous seafood restaurants and a spacious beach. The main attractions are St John’s Castle, which sits atop a pine-studded hill, and the extensive Marimurtra Botanical Gardens. Another must-visit village is Tossa de Mar. Although the beach is quite small, a walk along the city walls and the castle that towers over the bay is well worth the effort. Closer to the French border, Cadaqués, is an absolute must. This village of whitewashed seafront homes and tiny coves inspired many of Salvador Dalí’s works, and it’s easy to see why.
2. Do water activities
The water along this coast is calm and clear – making diving one of the most popular activities on the Costa Brava. Good locations for diving are the Mar Menuda near Tossa de Mar and the Medes Islands. There are diving options for the advanced and lessons for the beginners. So put on a wetsuit and swim along the rocks and among the colourful fish.
But if you prefer to take it a little easier, join a catamaran cruise and enjoy the view as you glide along the coastline. Relax with a ¡ drink in hand and jump into the water for a dip or snorkel at one of the open-sea stops.
3. Admire Historic Girona
It’s about anything up to just over an hour’s drive to Girona from anywhere else on the Costa Brava. This medieval city makes for an ideal day trip. The historic centre is easy to explore on foot and has plenty of sights. Among the must-see spots in Girona is the Gustave Eiffel-designed Pont de les Peixateries Velles bridge. There’s also the basilica and the cathedral of Girona. Game of Thrones fans will love the cathedral. Simply walking through the medieval centre is an experience in itself.
4. A splashing day at a water park
The Mediterranean weather in spring and summer is perfect for hours of watery fun and if you come with kids, a day at one of the waterparks along the Costa Brava is a must. In Water World Lloret de Mar, you’ll find many exciting slides, whitewater rivers and wave pools. But there is also a play island and a Family Lagoon for the little ones, where you can play in calm water. Another waterpark is located just south of the Costa Brava in Malgrat de Mar: Marineland. Here, you’ll also find plenty of slides for the whole family, nice lawns for sunbathing and there’s a wildlife area where you can admire shows with exotic birds and learn everything about marine life.
5. Head inland
Although the coast with its beaches, coves and rocks is a mecca for holidaymakers, it’s more than worth the effort to head inland. There are plenty of villages that you can stroll through while admiring the historic buildings and then enjoy a local lunch on a terrace. Besalú is one of the oldest Catalan villages and has an impressive 12th-century bridge. Another must-visit is Olot. This village is at the beginning of the La Garrotxa Natural Park and boasts a rather unusual calling card – a dormant volcano almost in its centre. And if you fancy some freshwater swimming, the Lake Banyoles is the ideal spot. You can also enjoy hiking and various water activities here.
6. Go to Barcelona for a day
The cool Catalan capital Barcelona is between 1.5 and 2 hours from the Costa Brava. Apart from its world-famous architecture, it’s been endowed a perfect mix of culture, beach and gastronomy. It’s worth a holiday in its own right. But if you only have one day, join a tour and see all the highlights of this modernist metropolis. Admire the fairytale-like Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s masterpiece, stroll through the Gothic Quarter with its narrow streets and medieval buildings, lose – or find – yourself in Park Güell or jog through the players’ tunnel onto the Camp Nou pitch at the home of FC Barcelona.
