Costa Brava, located in northeastern Spain in Catalonia, is a coastline stretching approximately 200 kilometers between the town of Blanes and the border with France. This area is about an hour and a half's drive from Barcelona and is renowned for its stunning Mediterranean landscapes, winding roads, and well-preserved medieval settlements.
Below are six iconic spots on the Costa Brava that are worth visiting during a road trip.
Vila Vella, situated in Tossa de Mar, is the only surviving fortified medieval core on the Catalan coast. Here, 14th-century walls rise against the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, and majestic watchtowers dominate the coastal landscape.
Tossa de Mar also boasts charming beaches, such as Cala es Codolar, hidden behind the walls and suitable for family strolls. Furthermore, the city features a statue of Hollywood actress Ava Gardner in honor of her stay in the village while filming 'Pandora's Lovers' in the 1950s.
Pals, perched atop a hill, is a medieval village offering breathtaking panoramic views. Its Gothic historic center, one of the best preserved in Catalonia, features stone streets and arches, as well as the famous round Romanesque tower, Les Orres.
Five kilometers from Pals lies Peratallada, another medieval gem. This village is a true medieval labyrinth with narrow streets, arches, and stone houses adorned with flowers and bougainvillea. It was built directly onto a rock and is known for its impressive moat, dug entirely by hand.
Peratallada is considered one of the most important examples of medieval architecture in Spain and retains an impressive castle with numerous towers. The name of the town literally means 'hewn stone,' referring to how the moat and foundations of the village were carved into the rock.
Monells is a charming medieval village in the interior of Catalonia, located 10 km from Peratallada. Known for its architecture with arches and stone buildings, one of the most memorable spots here is the magnificent Plaça Major, surrounded by arcades and considered one of the most beautiful in Catalonia.
Interestingly, this location also served as a set for the popular Spanish romantic comedy 'Eight Catalan Families,' released in 2015.
Cala Sa Tuna, located in Begur, is a small picturesque cove, like something out of a painting: it is surrounded by old white fishing houses and colorful boats by the water, standing out with its crystal-clear water, ideal for snorkeling.
Access can be gained by car or by a pleasant walk along the Camí de Ronda, a historical network of coastal paths running along the Catalan coast. It should be noted that the beach consists mainly of pebbles rather than fine sand, which requires extra caution when traveling with children.
Callella de Palafrugell offers a quintessential sea view: the old fishing village retains its charm thanks to traditional white houses, narrow streets, and famous arched bridges by the beach. In the surroundings, the Cap Roig Flower Gardens delight with a combination of botany, art, and magnificent views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Another attraction is the previously mentioned Camí de Ronda: in Calella, this popular and easily accessible route connects the town with the neighboring Llanfranca in about 30 minutes' walk.
Santander, the capital of Cantabria in northern Spain, is known as the 'Bride of the Sea'. This city, which has approximately 180 thousand inhabitants, presents a remarkable combination of mountainous landscapes and green fields with white sand beaches.
In the mid-19th century, Santander experienced significant growth in tourism after establishing itself as a holiday destination for the Spanish monarchy. The presence of the royal family stimulated the construction of luxurious hotels, mansions, and iconic structures, such as the Palace of Madalena, which is one of the city's most famous tourist attractions.
The following five beaches can be included in a trip itinerary in Santander.
Located between the Cape Mayor Lighthouse and the Second Beach of Sardinero, Mataleñas Beach is considered a discreet gem of the Spanish coast. Access is via a long staircase, which maintains a more reserved and charming atmosphere. Although it is an ideal spot for families seeking tranquility, people with reduced mobility should exercise caution on some steep parts.
With crystal-clear waters and golden sand, Mataleñas is suitable for free diving (snorkeling) due to its rocky bottom and diverse marine life. It is a less crowded alternative on the Santander coast.
The El Sardinero area is one of the most frequented by visitors to Santander. The First and Second Beaches of Sardinero form a vast expanse of fine, soft sand, bathed by transparent waters.
This location retains the aristocratic air that characterized the city's tourism development, with historical buildings such as the Gran Casino del Sardinero and the Hotel Real, which symbolize the period when Santander became a summer destination for the Spanish elite. The First Beach of Sardinero attracts both sunbathers during the summer and surfers year-round, offering complete infrastructure with several bars and restaurants along the waterfront.
Near the Sardinero region, 'Camello Beach' received this name due to a peculiar rock formation near the coast that resembles the silhouette of this animal. This destination is small and pleasant, combining calm waters with lush nature.
It is important to observe the tides when visiting this beach; during low tide, small natural pools appear among the rocks, which are highly appreciated by families with children.
Situated across the Bay of Santander, El Puntal can be reached by traditional vessels called pedreñeras, small red barges that leave the city at specific times. Upon arrival, visitors find a wide stretch of light sand and panoramic views of the Santander coast, the Palace of Madalena, and the entrance to the bay.
Due to stronger waves, El Puntal is an excellent option for water sports, such as stand-up paddleboarding and surfing. Local gastronomy also deserves mention, with bars and restaurants serving dishes made with fresh seafood by the beach.
On the northern coast of Santander, La Maruca exhibits a quieter and more rural aspect of the city. The beach has a small port that, in past times, held military relevance due to its strategic location near the bay entrance.
For those who enjoy hiking and adventure, the beach serves as a starting or ending point for a coastal trek of about 11 kilometers. This route traverses cliffs and natural vegetation to the Cape Mayor Lighthouse, making it ideal for exploring the Santander coast on foot.
