Language
Currency
Located in Catalonia in northeast Spain and south of the French border, the Costa Brava is a stunning Mediterranean gem composed of rocky cliffs, charming villages, golden beaches and turquoise waters. Easily accessible via flights from Barcelona and Girona, or a scenic road trip from France, this captivating region is ideal for families, couples, art lovers, and foodies alike. With so many European destinations to choose from, is the Costa Brava really worth visiting? Yes! Villanovo has put together a helpful guide to show you why.
The Costa Brava region is a haven for nature lovers thanks to its protected areas, hiking trails, and wild coast. Walk the Camí de Ronda, a scenic cliff path offering spectacular Mediterranean views as it winds through quaint villages and hidden coves. The sections of this 200km route offer varying degrees of difficulty, so both families and active travellers are welcome. Explore the Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park, the largest wetland area in Catalonia. Home to countless bird species, the reserve is the ideal spot for birdwatching at sunrise and sunset during the spring and fall migrations. Head to Cap de Creus, where the Pyrenees meet the Mediterranean Sea, to discover a striking geological setting with lush vegetation. This abundance of nature is home to a wealth of outdoor activities, including scuba diving, hiking, kayaking, and birdwatching.
Many people visit this part of the Costa Brava to discover one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. In addition to Cadaqués- the old fishing village that Dalì dubbed "the most beautiful in the world" - three towns make up the Dalí Triangle. In Portilligat, the Salvador Dalí House Museum is in the artist's former home. His muse and wife, Gala, is buried in Gala Dalí Castle in Púbol. Most of the artist's works are displayed at the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres.
The region is also renowned for its medieval villages. One of the best places to visit on the Costa Brava, the town of Begur charms with its hilltop castle and winding streets. Pals offers a unique view of the Catalan countryside and sea while the small city of Girona is beautifully steeped in tradition. The summer months are full of events on the Costa Brava. In July and August, the Cap Roig Festival lights up the seaside botanical gardens with the same name. For a great way to experience Catalan culture, listen to the traditional habaneras singers in Calella de Palfrugell.
For people who love soaking up the sun in stunning settings, the Costa Brava is definitely worth visiting. One of the most beautiful beaches on the Costa Brava, Aiguablava, in Begur, has tranquil blue waters contrasted by lush vegetation. For a calmer beach, head north to Sa Riera or south to the intimate village of Tamariu, a small beach that is ideal for diving, sailing, and kayaking. Our favourite secret spots include Cala Estreta, an ultra-secluded cove that is only accessible by foot, and Cala d’Aigua Xèlida, a small cove set along a coastal path and beside mesmerising caves. To truly immerse in the Mediterranean's spectacular beauty, have your Villanovo concierge book a boat excursion or snorkelling outing. Note that the beautiful beaches on the Costa Brava are busiest in the summer months, so the best time to visit is May-June or September-October when the crowds have lessened and the weather is still warm.
Catalan cuisine brims with dishes fed by the fertile land and the sea. Savour arroz caldoso, a creamy rice dish, escalivada, smoky grilled vegetables, succulently sweet red Palamós prawns, and fideuà a Catalan-style paella made from short noodles instead of rice. Want to know where to eat on the Costa Brava? People adore Toc al Mar in Begur for their wood-fired fish while the gastronomic Compartir serves inventive shared plates in Cadaqués
We recommend pairing your visit to the Costa Brava with wine. Famous for its sweet wines like Garnatza and Moscatell del Empordà, the Empordà region is now gaining recognition for its modern red wine. For fans of wine tourism, take a bike tour through vineyards or indulge in grape-infused spa treatments.
Villanovo has a wide choice of luxury villas on the Costa Brava with private pools, direct access to the beach, or sea views. Each house has been carefully selected to ensure you have an unforgettable stay.
Our villas are located in the Costa Brava's most beautiful locations: Begur, Cadaques, Llafranc, Tamariu, and Lloret de Mar. Thanks to our extensive collection, there is no shortage of possibilities of places on the Costa Brava.
Renting a villa with Villanovo is much more than an accommodation: it is a tailor-made experience for your visit to the Costa Brava. Thanks to our luxury concierge service, you will benefit from personalised assistance before and during your trip. Our dedicated concierges take care of all the details: organising boat trips, childcare, in-home chef, a rental car from Barcelona or Girona, or other activities. Every booking includes a personalised travel guide, that lists our experts' recommendations for authentic restaurants, secret beaches, local shops and must-see places that prove why the Costa Brava is worth visiting on your next holiday.
11
6
4
20
10
10
