A Guide to Costa Brava
Costa Brava is Northern Spain’s coastal Mediterranean gem, boasting rugged cliffs, charming towns, and lush countryside that have collectively inspired artists and travelers from around the world. Just shy of two hours from Barcelona, it’s an easy day trip. But even a few days would barely scratch the surface for those looking to truly experience the Catalonian region known for its food traditions, rich culture, and dramatic coastline.
What to Do
Costa Brava is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities that will get your heart racing.
Boating
Experience the beauty of the coast from the sea. Take a boat trip and let the waves rock you as you pass towering cliffs and hidden coves. There are also several islands and secluded bays to explore. While onboard, enjoy tasting the delights of the local gastronomy, sunbathing, and relaxing in the Mediterranean sun.
Hiking
The Camino de Ronda is an ancient walking path, originally created to help control the coast and prevent smuggling. Today, however, El Camino de Ronda is the best way to reach hidden, natural beaches away from crowded seafronts. The route hugs the coastline through narrow paths, uphills and downhills, sea promenades, and beaches, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The difficulty ranges from easy to challenging depending on the section of the route, so hikers of all skill levels can enjoy the trail, and stop to rest at various beaches along the way.
Biking
There is a rich cycling culture in Costa Brava, particularly in Girona. The city is a hub for professional cyclists, which creates a vibrant atmosphere for casual and experienced riders alike. With the diverse terrain of challenging mountain climbs and serene coastal paths, biking in Costa Brava is one of the best ways to experience the region’s natural beauty. Soak up views of crystal-clear waters and coastline, and cycle leisurely through medieval towns and quaint fishing villages. With well-developed networks of cycling routes for every level of rider, and with the addition of e-bikes, cycling through the countryside is a must-do activity for everyone.
Girona
Girona is a cultural jewel with more than 2,000 years of civic history. Many civilizations have left their imprint on the streets of the city’s Old Town, including the Iberians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Jews, and Christians. Wander along the Onyar riverbanks, dotted with colorful houses. Then, visit the best-preserved Jewish Quarter in Europe. Additional highlights include Girona Cathedral, dedicated to St. María, and the Arab Baths. Game of Thrones fans will no doubt recognize many of the sites in Girona, as it served as the backdrop for Braavos and King's Landing in the series’ sixth season.
Surrealism
Surrealism is deeply rooted in Costa Brava, as Salvador Dalí, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, found his muse in its stunning coastline. Cadaqués, an amazing coastal village of white-washed houses and narrow streets, inspired much of the Surrealist’s creativity. Today, Cadaqués is home to Dalí's Port Lligat Museum-House, which is a sort of labyrinth made up of several fishermen's houses designed and decorated by Dalí and his wife, Gala, between the 1930s and the 1970s. While in Costa Brava, a visit to the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres, about an hour from Cadaqués by car, is a must. Built on the ruins of the old Figueres theater, the museum hosts a wide range of exhibits that showcase Dalí's unique vision and creative genius. Figueres was both the artist’s birthplace and resting place, so Dalí was instrumental in how the museum was laid out. The final stop on any Surrealist tour through Costa Brava is Púbol Castle, which was a gift from Dalí to Gala, and where Gala was eventually buried. The Gothic building features a collection of Gala's designer clothing — with pieces by Christian Dior, Pierre Cardin, and Dalí himself — in the attic, as well as original furniture and objects restored to their former splendor.
Pro Tip: Bring a sense of childlike wonder to the Dalí Museum in Figueres. It’s an absolute must, and even better when experienced with a guide. The playfulness of this interactive museum appeals to people of all ages. - Trista Gage, Designer
Where to Stay
Mas de Torrent is a restored 18th-century Catalan farmhouse-turned-world-class hotel and spa. The Relais & Châteaux boutique hotel sits nestled in the scenic Empordà region, surrounded by rolling hills and olive groves. Its central location is ideal for exploring the highlights of Costa Brava. Each of the hotel’s 39 luxurious rooms and suites are uniquely decorated in natural tones, with a blend of traditional and modern elements that lend themselves to an inviting and cozy atmosphere. Some of the suites even boast private gardens and plunge pools.
The on-site Michelin-starred restaurant, Les Coques, helmed by award-winning Chef Ramon Freixa, offers a gastronomic journey through the region's flavors, with a menu that changes seasonally to showcase the freshest local ingredients. Meanwhile, MasSpa offers indoor and outdoor pools, a hammam, and a range of treatments to unwind after a day exploring the Costa Brava.
What to Eat and Drink
Costa Brava is a food lover's paradise, with a wide range of traditional Catalan cuisine and local specialties to choose from. Sample the rich flavors of a saffron-infused paella, and wander through local markets to discover fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and handmade sweets.
Savor the unique experiences of the region with an olive oil tasting at Fontclara, where you can learn about organic production and the art of making the best olive oil. Enjoy a slice of traditional Catalan bread with tomato and olive oil — a simple but delicious taste of the area. This dish, known locally as pan tumaca, is at its best when using locally sourced and high-quality extra virgin olive oil and sea salt. Originally used as a method to soften old or dry bread in Catalonia, it has now become a culinary staple. You’ll see most locals eating it for breakfast, but don’t be surprised if you also see it on a tapas menu for an afternoon or evening snack.
Visit Mas Ponsjoan Winery, a family-run winery that has been in operation for nearly five centuries and is known for its natural fermentation wines. The property also boasts one of the oldest farmhouses in Calogne. Take a tour of the vineyards, learn about sustainable farming, and taste their unlabeled bottles.
For a more in-depth look at the region’s cuisine, take a cooking class and have lunch with renowned chef, Pilar Latorre, in her private country house. The chef studied at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris and is known for her Mediterranean cuisine, as well as French and Asian specialties.
When to Go
Costa Brava is a year-round destination, offering plenty of days filled with sweet Mediterranean sun. For sun, sand, and sea adventure, travel between June and September. If you’re after cooler weather and smaller crowds to explore the charming towns, the off season of November to February is a peaceful time to travel there. You’ll also find a balance of warm weather and few travelers in the shoulder seasons of March to May and the month of October.
For a well-rounded tour of the highlights of Catalonia, combine a few days in Costa Brava with a few days in Barcelona.
Haley Beham
Haley is a travel writer and content creator for Ker & Downey. She fell in love with travel at the age of nine when she traveled on safari with her family to Botswana. Since that first overseas trip, she's explored Northern and Southern Africa, Southeast Asia, Europe, and South America with her camera, telling stories along the way to inspire others to discover the world through travel.
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