Pure life under a blue sky
Anyone who has ever been, will agree, the sunny Costa Brava is a paradise on earth. You will discover views of the Pyrenees when you're swimming in the sea. You can try, when in one of the restaurants, a service of an exquisite blend of seafood and meat combined. It is a space for all the senses, and on a high level to be enjoyed.
We will gladly show and recommend to our customers the entertainment venues, culture, sports, outings and gastronomy. As we experience "our" beautiful region in the North East of Spain.
Everything that you want in other tourist countries you will find it here. And no surprise, in 2012 Costa Brava was named, by National Geographic, as one of the most beautiful holiday destinations!
It is easy for Europeans to adapt here, since the Costa Brava is known for its four seasons that change the landscape. The whole area is easily accessible by plane, train or car. All roads are well paved. A pleasure for cyclists and motorists.
Relax in this rich nature
Some people when they think of the Costa Brava , they think about completely crowded beaches, which isn’t difficult to imagine. Firstly, they are never too crowded, and also there are dozens of beaches. From the long, wide sandy beaches to the most romantic bays. Secondly, there are also (partially protected) beautiful nature areas, which thanks to its special flora and fauna attract many visitors from around the world.
Aiguamolls Natural Park of the Emporda
One of the wettest areas of Catalonia, located in the delta of the Muga and Fluvià. It forms a collection of ponds, swamps, saltwater marshes and floodplains. The park, is important ecologically, because of its prime location with the bird migration route between Africa and Northern Europe. There lives about 50 different species of birds. From the hidden observatories you can observe birds,flamingos, storks, herons and also pay attention to the wonderful butterflies.
Montgrí, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park
Located in the Massif Montgrí between the Ter river and the Medes Archipelago Islands. Go walking through the forest and discover how pure the air is here. Or go to the cliffs of the island for kayaking. This area is also a real paradise for lovers of diving.
Cap de Creus Natural Park
In this park the Pyrenees are where the sea ends, so it is a very irregular coastline. It is located just above Cadaques and set in nature, known as wild, and with many species of lichens. A winding road overlooking the bay will take you to Cap de Creus. For those who love to walk or prefer to climb you can will feel the company of the birds and the smell of natural herbs. For example, Fennel, where the sweet oil is extracted to make licorice and toothpaste.
From the top are breathtaking views of the sea. If you want to surprise your partner be sure to go there during sunrise or sunset. Guaranteed success! A portion of the park is in the sea, perfect for those looking to see octopus and other interesting sea creatures among the rocks.
Natural Parc of the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone
In this extensive natural area there are about 30 volcanoes with its form and vegetation and each with its own character. However these giants lie dormant. The last eruption was 12,000 years ago. The most popular volcanoe is the "Santa Margarida" due to its large crater of 330 meters. "Croscat" is in the shape of a horseshoe and "The Montsacopa" has a cone shape. The peaks reach up to 1000 meters so they are challenging enough for climbers. Because the area is so hilly, mountain bikers are also fans. In the villages in this area you can go on the trails and rent bicycles. In addition, there are about 30 marked trails leading through vegetation that is rarely found in other areas of Spain as they need a special fertile soil. The park with craters and lava walls is easily accessible by car, by bike or on foot. Some volcanoes, for your own safety, require you to take a guide.
Boadella Reservoir
A shelter for the Spaniards when looking for a respite during the season. It is a very quiet place. Few tourists have discovered this reservoir. The water, with its special turquoise colour is surrounded by sand and beautiful forests. In the restaurant located next to the water is a large terrace where you can simply eat or drink well, enjoying the views of the cliffs of the mountains that surround you. This reservoir provides drinking water to the entire territory.
Sport, sport and more sport ...
What is common in the Costa Brava is the wide range of sporting activities. Swimming, diving, snorkelling, kite surfing, windsurfing, paragliding, sailing, water skiing, kayaking, cycling, mountain biking, golf, mini-golf, hiking, skydiving (including the wind tunnel), climbing, canyoning, horse riding, petanque, tennis, karting, beach volleyball and more.
Towns and cities
The villages of the Costa Brava are ancient fishing villages. They are known for their brilliant locations and their charming Mediterranean atmosphere. Further inland are the quietest villages where time seems to stand still. We will take you to places that impressed us.
Port de la Selva
In this authentic fishing village you will find all the houses are white, very cosy and situated on a slope. The village lets life come as it comes and invites you to do the same, as you are sitting on a terrace with your cup of coffee in your hand you will see colorful fish swimming in the deep, they are proof that the sea water in the Costa Brava, or in the "wild coast" is super pure.
The bay itself has the perfect shape for the port. Bright boats moving endlessly at your feet, and a little further away is the beach where there is always room for sun seekers. Those seeking a little more privacy, can walk to the small bays, which are located nearby. Are you walking? Go to explore nature and be surprised by medieval buildings that are located in unexpected places. A tip for water lovers: Thanks to the location of the mountain in Port de la Selva it is the only place in the area where you can practice kitesurf or windsurf when the Tramuntana is blowing.
Sant Pere Pescador
A lovely village surrounded by vast fields of fruit trees. It is thanks to the river Fluvia that the area is so fertile. Many Africans work there and they share this cozy town with the Catalans. If driving from Sant Pere Pescador towards the beach, past the bridge that passes over the river and you will be stunned to see the long and wide beach. We are sure that you have never seen anything like this with more than 6 km of sand and dunes.
The village chapel’s actual construction, dated from the 17th century, was built to evoke the sacred San Sebastián, who protected infectious diseases that centuries before were transmitted by mosquitoes.
Sant Martí d'Empúries
This small but beautiful seaside medieval town was built next to the ruins of the Greek Palaiapolis. It is very pleasant to walk by the stone-built houses here and around the corner there is a surprise in store, where you can discover the panoramic views of the sea and the beach. In the distance you can see the entire Gulf of Roses.
Although there are six streets and 2 squares in Sant Marti, you wouldn’t think that historically it has been a very important place. The Greeks had already lived there since the fourth century BC. Around 600 was the time of the episcopal. In the seventh century it was occupied by Muslims, and in 785 it was again conquered by Charlemagne. Sant Martí d'Empúries which can be visited is located north of the archaeological site of Empúries.
After a long walk through the dunes and pine forests, with your feet in the sand, you can stop for an ice cream, or sit on one of the terraces in the main square to taste delicious tapas (try the artichoke in breadcrumbs!) For those looking for something with more style can stay in the Hostal Empúries Spa (www.hostalempuries.com). An art deco hotel inspired by organic food and vegetables grown at the hotel.
In Forest House, the modernist building next to the church, is a museum entirely dedicated to the area of the Empordà.
Empuriabrava
It has a resemblance to Venice. And so we describe Empuriabrava directly from the water. We sail with a motor boat along the canals and have views of the houses (vacation) of Europeans and Americans, that celebrate life in their garden overlooking the canal. You will see Bougainvillea flowers in bright colors and leaves of palm trees swaying in the gentle breeze. This is a special coastal zone and is the result of channeling the natural reservoir of the nature reserve of the Emporda. Also it has an impressive marina with over 5,000 berths, therefore, lovers of boats and water sports will feel very comfortable here. In addition, the beaches of Empuriabrava, including the wild beach of Rubina, are very suitable for families with children.
Empuriabrava is a lively area with dozens of restaurants, bars, supermarkets, shops, sports clothing and equipment.
Anyone who wants to see it all from the air can skydive at the skydiving school in Empuriabrava. It is one of the best and most professional centers in the world. You can make tandem jumps and get some lessons. If you go for a day to see the professional skydivers jump it is also a good experience. Take a sweet Margarida muffin with coffee and sit quietly on the terrace looking out to the blue sky. In the distance, the sky will appear with coloured dots, the sky divers, that soon after land right in front of you.
Cadaques
This is the village of the famous artist, Salvador Dalí, in the Costa Brava. Picasso and Duchamp were also here and they raved on about the light and nature. In the sixties it was a real hippie village, but now many of the hippies have disappeared and it has become one of the most expensive coastal areas of the Costa Brava. Stroll through the beautiful streets between the white houses or sunbathe on beautiful beaches.
Dancing is also possible, Cadaques has several clubs including l'Hostal, in which the logo was designed by Dalí. A place where you must go to eat, is the restaurant ‘Compartir’, where sea and land is combined in a surprising way.
Gerona and Perpignan
These cities we are not going to describe because you can find a lot of information about them on the internet. They are mentioned because they are a good choice for a day of shopping.
The culture and music
The Costa Brava is a region of festivals, traditions and culture. There is a lot to see. From the quaint fishing villages on the coast to the ancient castles inland. The smaller villages have Romanesque churches with facades of the most extraordinary form. There is too much to describe in this site, we leave some tips as a reminder and so you will not forget.
Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes
In Sant Pere de Rodes you will find a majestic Benedictine monastery from the 11th and 12th century which are totally worth a visit. It's like entering a medieval movie. The site consists of a fortified tower, a church with its impressive cloister, the homes of monks and a palace from the 15th century.
It is located 520 meters above sea level, which offers a fantastic view of Cap de Creus. The church has three naves. The nave has a barrel vault bordering on neo-classical. Both the 27 meter high tower of the castle, as well as the three storey bell tower, you can climb to get a good view in the distance. There is also a museum. In the months of July and August this Romanesque monastery opens its doors to offer concerts of classical music.
Dalí (The museum, the home and castle for his muse Gala)
A visit to Figueras and the Dali museum is really a good choice. It was Dalí himself who decided that the museum dedicated to him would be situated in the ancient theater of this city. There are over 1,500 works now displayed of this eccentric artist, including portraits and hologram sculptures. In this museum you can observe how Dalí had no limits when he came to think and create. It also has some "art installations" which highlights the Cadillac with a woman on the hood. The museum is the final resting place of Dalí. Yes, you read that right, the embalmed body lies in the crypt, near his work (not open to the public).
In Port Lligat is the beautiful home of Dalí, which draws much attention from cultural tourists.
The castle that Dalí gave to his muse Gala is located in the small village of Púbol. Everything inside this seems to be a tribute to her.
Castell de Sant Ferran
It is the largest fortress in Europe, built in the 18th century and has a watchtower, the walls are one meter thick, also guns and ammunition depots and a giant vaulted cellar.
Music all summer
The region is popular among music lovers. During the summer there is always something to listen to, so put on your best finery and show off your tan. These are our favorites:
- Music Festival at Castle Perelada
- Summer Concerts in the fortress in Roses (also outdoor movies)
- Classical Concerts in L'Escala
- Summer nights in San Pescador
- Classical Concerts in the monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes
Prefer to dance? Then go to the beaches where, in different bars, from eleven the chairs and tables are put to one side to make room. Fantastic Cuban music, the latest international hits ... everything is possible. You will hear where to go, to dance with your hair moving in the sea breeze.
Gastronomy
The food and drink here is unmatched, why? Because the Spanish know what is good. Since most ingredients have absorbed the Spanish sun. Also in the most unexpected places, even in the mountains, you will find good restaurants. Restaurants where very often the entire family cook and serve together.
The food here is also very affordable, hardly worth cooking yourself.
Sea and mountain, special dishes of fish and meat
The paella or tapas are not specialties that originated in this region, they are dishes where meat and fish dishes are combined in an exquisite way. We like to go to "Wine & Dine" where the quality is very good and the food is served in a very attractive way. Paella is, of course, a specialty that you can find in any restaurant, also too tapas, poultry, fish and salads.
Wine
The Greeks cultivated wine in the Costa Brava and so the region has a long tradition. Over a long period cheap wines were produced, but the new generation of winemakers have stopped that. They strive to produce wines with character and exceptional quality, and their efforts shows. They already have made good wines that have been recognized internationally and occupy a place in the list of well known wines. Places that a good wine lover should go, are Peralada and Capmany. In the cellar of the Castle Peralada you can take a guided tour of the cellar and vineyard.
Bottled water
Vilajuiga has its own water fountain and water is bottled and used by numerous restaurants in the area.
The field of wild boar and truffles
If you drive further inland, direction Tapis, past Darnius, you can eat delicious stews. Especially boar, which are often in the woods, and quite exquisite, if accompanied by patatas bravas (potatoes with spicy tomato sauce).
Whoever loves truffles, you will find them often on menus.
Useful links:
www.veoh.com/videos/v6462005W3xFhpCp?source=embed
Pure life under a blue sky
Anyone who has ever been, will agree, the sunny Costa Brava is a paradise on earth. You will discover views of the Pyrenees when you're swimming in the sea. You can try, when in one of the restaurants, a service of an exquisite blend of seafood and meat combined. It is a space for all the senses, and on a high level to be enjoyed.
We will gladly show and recommend to our customers the entertainment venues, culture, sports, outings and gastronomy. As we experience "our" beautiful region in the North East of Spain.
Everything that you want in other tourist countries you will find it here. And no surprise, in 2012 Costa Brava was named, by National Geographic, as one of the most beautiful holiday destinations!
It is easy for Europeans to adapt here, since the Costa Brava is known for its four seasons that change the landscape. The whole area is easily accessible by plane, train or car. All roads are well paved. A pleasure for cyclists and motorists.
Relax in this rich nature
Some people when they think of the Costa Brava , they think about completely crowded beaches, which isn’t difficult to imagine. Firstly, they are never too crowded, and also there are dozens of beaches. From the long, wide sandy beaches to the most romantic bays. Secondly, there are also (partially protected) beautiful nature areas, which thanks to its special flora and fauna attract many visitors from around the world.
Aiguamolls Natural Park of the Emporda
One of the wettest areas of Catalonia, located in the delta of the Muga and Fluvià. It forms a collection of ponds, swamps, saltwater marshes and floodplains. The park, is important ecologically, because of its prime location with the bird migration route between Africa and Northern Europe. There lives about 50 different species of birds. From the hidden observatories you can observe birds,flamingos, storks, herons and also pay attention to the wonderful butterflies.
Montgrí, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park
Located in the Massif Montgrí between the Ter river and the Medes Archipelago Islands. Go walking through the forest and discover how pure the air is here. Or go to the cliffs of the island for kayaking. This area is also a real paradise for lovers of diving.
Cap de Creus Natural Park
In this park the Pyrenees are where the sea ends, so it is a very irregular coastline. It is located just above Cadaques and set in nature, known as wild, and with many species of lichens. A winding road overlooking the bay will take you to Cap de Creus. For those who love to walk or prefer to climb you can will feel the company of the birds and the smell of natural herbs. For example, Fennel, where the sweet oil is extracted to make licorice and toothpaste.
From the top are breathtaking views of the sea. If you want to surprise your partner be sure to go there during sunrise or sunset. Guaranteed success! A portion of the park is in the sea, perfect for those looking to see octopus and other interesting sea creatures among the rocks.
Natural Parc of the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone
In this extensive natural area there are about 30 volcanoes with its form and vegetation and each with its own character. However these giants lie dormant. The last eruption was 12,000 years ago. The most popular volcanoe is the "Santa Margarida" due to its large crater of 330 meters. "Croscat" is in the shape of a horseshoe and "The Montsacopa" has a cone shape. The peaks reach up to 1000 meters so they are challenging enough for climbers. Because the area is so hilly, mountain bikers are also fans. In the villages in this area you can go on the trails and rent bicycles. In addition, there are about 30 marked trails leading through vegetation that is rarely found in other areas of Spain as they need a special fertile soil. The park with craters and lava walls is easily accessible by car, by bike or on foot. Some volcanoes, for your own safety, require you to take a guide.
Boadella Reservoir
A shelter for the Spaniards when looking for a respite during the season. It is a very quiet place. Few tourists have discovered this reservoir. The water, with its special turquoise colour is surrounded by sand and beautiful forests. In the restaurant located next to the water is a large terrace where you can simply eat or drink well, enjoying the views of the cliffs of the mountains that surround you. This reservoir provides drinking water to the entire territory.
Sport, sport and more sport ...
What is common in the Costa Brava is the wide range of sporting activities. Swimming, diving, snorkelling, kite surfing, windsurfing, paragliding, sailing, water skiing, kayaking, cycling, mountain biking, golf, mini-golf, hiking, skydiving (including the wind tunnel), climbing, canyoning, horse riding, petanque, tennis, karting, beach volleyball and more.
Towns and cities
The villages of the Costa Brava are ancient fishing villages. They are known for their brilliant locations and their charming Mediterranean atmosphere. Further inland are the quietest villages where time seems to stand still. We will take you to places that impressed us.
Port de la Selva
In this authentic fishing village you will find all the houses are white, very cosy and situated on a slope. The village lets life come as it comes and invites you to do the same, as you are sitting on a terrace with your cup of coffee in your hand you will see colorful fish swimming in the deep, they are proof that the sea water in the Costa Brava, or in the "wild coast" is super pure.
The bay itself has the perfect shape for the port. Bright boats moving endlessly at your feet, and a little further away is the beach where there is always room for sun seekers. Those seeking a little more privacy, can walk to the small bays, which are located nearby. Are you walking? Go to explore nature and be surprised by medieval buildings that are located in unexpected places. A tip for water lovers: Thanks to the location of the mountain in Port de la Selva it is the only place in the area where you can practice kitesurf or windsurf when the Tramuntana is blowing.
Sant Pere Pescador
A lovely village surrounded by vast fields of fruit trees. It is thanks to the river Fluvia that the area is so fertile. Many Africans work there and they share this cozy town with the Catalans. If driving from Sant Pere Pescador towards the beach, past the bridge that passes over the river and you will be stunned to see the long and wide beach. We are sure that you have never seen anything like this with more than 6 km of sand and dunes.
The village chapel’s actual construction, dated from the 17th century, was built to evoke the sacred San Sebastián, who protected infectious diseases that centuries before were transmitted by mosquitoes.
Sant Martí d'Empúries
This small but beautiful seaside medieval town was built next to the ruins of the Greek Palaiapolis. It is very pleasant to walk by the stone-built houses here and around the corner there is a surprise in store, where you can discover the panoramic views of the sea and the beach. In the distance you can see the entire Gulf of Roses.
Although there are six streets and 2 squares in Sant Marti, you wouldn’t think that historically it has been a very important place. The Greeks had already lived there since the fourth century BC. Around 600 was the time of the episcopal. In the seventh century it was occupied by Muslims, and in 785 it was again conquered by Charlemagne. Sant Martí d'Empúries which can be visited is located north of the archaeological site of Empúries.
After a long walk through the dunes and pine forests, with your feet in the sand, you can stop for an ice cream, or sit on one of the terraces in the main square to taste delicious tapas (try the artichoke in breadcrumbs!) For those looking for something with more style can stay in the Hostal Empúries Spa (www.hostalempuries.com). An art deco hotel inspired by organic food and vegetables grown at the hotel.
In Forest House, the modernist building next to the church, is a museum entirely dedicated to the area of the Empordà.
Empuriabrava
It has a resemblance to Venice. And so we describe Empuriabrava directly from the water. We sail with a motor boat along the canals and have views of the houses (vacation) of Europeans and Americans, that celebrate life in their garden overlooking the canal. You will see Bougainvillea flowers in bright colors and leaves of palm trees swaying in the gentle breeze. This is a special coastal zone and is the result of channeling the natural reservoir of the nature reserve of the Emporda. Also it has an impressive marina with over 5,000 berths, therefore, lovers of boats and water sports will feel very comfortable here. In addition, the beaches of Empuriabrava, including the wild beach of Rubina, are very suitable for families with children.
Empuriabrava is a lively area with dozens of restaurants, bars, supermarkets, shops, sports clothing and equipment.
Anyone who wants to see it all from the air can skydive at the skydiving school in Empuriabrava. It is one of the best and most professional centers in the world. You can make tandem jumps and get some lessons. If you go for a day to see the professional skydivers jump it is also a good experience. Take a sweet Margarida muffin with coffee and sit quietly on the terrace looking out to the blue sky. In the distance, the sky will appear with coloured dots, the sky divers, that soon after land right in front of you.
Cadaques
This is the village of the famous artist, Salvador Dalí, in the Costa Brava. Picasso and Duchamp were also here and they raved on about the light and nature. In the sixties it was a real hippie village, but now many of the hippies have disappeared and it has become one of the most expensive coastal areas of the Costa Brava. Stroll through the beautiful streets between the white houses or sunbathe on beautiful beaches.
Dancing is also possible, Cadaques has several clubs including l'Hostal, in which the logo was designed by Dalí. A place where you must go to eat, is the restaurant ‘Compartir’, where sea and land is combined in a surprising way.
Gerona and Perpignan
These cities we are not going to describe because you can find a lot of information about them on the internet. They are mentioned because they are a good choice for a day of shopping.
The culture and music
The Costa Brava is a region of festivals, traditions and culture. There is a lot to see. From the quaint fishing villages on the coast to the ancient castles inland. The smaller villages have Romanesque churches with facades of the most extraordinary form. There is too much to describe in this site, we leave some tips as a reminder and so you will not forget.
Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes
In Sant Pere de Rodes you will find a majestic Benedictine monastery from the 11th and 12th century which are totally worth a visit. It's like entering a medieval movie. The site consists of a fortified tower, a church with its impressive cloister, the homes of monks and a palace from the 15th century.
It is located 520 meters above sea level, which offers a fantastic view of Cap de Creus. The church has three naves. The nave has a barrel vault bordering on neo-classical. Both the 27 meter high tower of the castle, as well as the three storey bell tower, you can climb to get a good view in the distance. There is also a museum. In the months of July and August this Romanesque monastery opens its doors to offer concerts of classical music.
Dalí (The museum, the home and castle for his muse Gala)
A visit to Figueras and the Dali museum is really a good choice. It was Dalí himself who decided that the museum dedicated to him would be situated in the ancient theater of this city. There are over 1,500 works now displayed of this eccentric artist, including portraits and hologram sculptures. In this museum you can observe how Dalí had no limits when he came to think and create. It also has some "art installations" which highlights the Cadillac with a woman on the hood. The museum is the final resting place of Dalí. Yes, you read that right, the embalmed body lies in the crypt, near his work (not open to the public).
In Port Lligat is the beautiful home of Dalí, which draws much attention from cultural tourists.
The castle that Dalí gave to his muse Gala is located in the small village of Púbol. Everything inside this seems to be a tribute to her.
Castell de Sant Ferran
It is the largest fortress in Europe, built in the 18th century and has a watchtower, the walls are one meter thick, also guns and ammunition depots and a giant vaulted cellar.
Music all summer
The region is popular among music lovers. During the summer there is always something to listen to, so put on your best finery and show off your tan. These are our favorites:
- Music Festival at Castle Perelada
- Summer Concerts in the fortress in Roses (also outdoor movies)
- Classical Concerts in L'Escala
- Summer nights in San Pescador
- Classical Concerts in the monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes
Prefer to dance? Then go to the beaches where, in different bars, from eleven the chairs and tables are put to one side to make room. Fantastic Cuban music, the latest international hits ... everything is possible. You will hear where to go, to dance with your hair moving in the sea breeze.
Gastronomy
The food and drink here is unmatched, why? Because the Spanish know what is good. Since most ingredients have absorbed the Spanish sun. Also in the most unexpected places, even in the mountains, you will find good restaurants. Restaurants where very often the entire family cook and serve together.
The food here is also very affordable, hardly worth cooking yourself.
Sea and mountain, special dishes of fish and meat
The paella or tapas are not specialties that originated in this region, they are dishes where meat and fish dishes are combined in an exquisite way. We like to go to "Wine & Dine" where the quality is very good and the food is served in a very attractive way. Paella is, of course, a specialty that you can find in any restaurant, also too tapas, poultry, fish and salads.
Wine
The Greeks cultivated wine in the Costa Brava and so the region has a long tradition. Over a long period cheap wines were produced, but the new generation of winemakers have stopped that. They strive to produce wines with character and exceptional quality, and their efforts shows. They already have made good wines that have been recognized internationally and occupy a place in the list of well known wines. Places that a good wine lover should go, are Peralada and Capmany. In the cellar of the Castle Peralada you can take a guided tour of the cellar and vineyard.
Bottled water
Vilajuiga has its own water fountain and water is bottled and used by numerous restaurants in the area.
The field of wild boar and truffles
If you drive further inland, direction Tapis, past Darnius, you can eat delicious stews. Especially boar, which are often in the woods, and quite exquisite, if accompanied by patatas bravas (potatoes with spicy tomato sauce).
Whoever loves truffles, you will find them often on menus.
Useful links:
www.veoh.com/videos/v6462005W3xFhpCp?source=embed
Office: | +34 872.222.420 |
P. Messelier: | +34 660.893.926 |