Nestled in the hills of the Baix Empordà, Pals is one of the best-preserved medieval villages in the province of Girona. With its cobbled lanes, Mediterranean views, fine sandy beaches and refined gastronomy, this Catalan gem embodies the authentic character of the Costa Brava. Staying in a villa in Pals offers the perfect opportunity to explore the region in a peaceful and privileged setting.
Set in the Baix Empordà region, Pals is one of the best-preserved medieval settlements in Catalonia. Perched on the top of a hill, the village enjoys remarkable views over the surrounding countryside and the Mediterranean Sea beyond. Its cobbled streets, ramparts and Torre de les Hores evoke a remarkably well-preserved past.
Pals has a character quite distinct from the seaside resorts nearby, with a quiet elegance that appeals to travellers seeking authenticity. The varied landscapes of the Baix Empordà unfold across rice fields, rolling hills and the Mediterranean coastline, inviting visitors to discover another side of the Costa Brava.
Pals enjoys a mild, sunny climate that makes for pleasant family holiday in Spain throughout the year. Spring and autumn bring gentle temperatures and beautifully soft light over the rice fields and coves, while the summer months are particularly suited to days by the beach and swimming in clear waters. Winters remain mild, offering quieter conditions for strolling through the historic centre and exploring the surrounding countryside.
The historic centre of Pals unfolds like a journey through time. Its cobbled streets lead to the Torre de les Hores, a 15-metre Romanesque tower dating from the 12th century and a remnant of the old castle. Its 16th-century bell still marks the rhythm of village life, and from the top, the view stretches across the surrounding fields to the sea, with the Medes Islands on the horizon. The Church of Sant Pere, blending Romanesque and Gothic styles, reflects the medieval history of Pals, while the Portal de la Vila, with its Gothic archway, marks the entrance to this well-preserved enclave, where every stone tells centuries of Catalan history.
Platja de Pals stretches for over three kilometres of fine sand and crystal-clear water. Backed by dunes and pine forest, this long stretch of coastline offers an unspoilt natural setting, far from the bustle of nearby resorts. Its shallow waters are ideal for family swimming, while windsurfers and paddleboarders enjoy favourable conditions further along the shore. The coastline remains wild and peaceful, with the Medes Islands and the pine-covered cliffs of Begur as a backdrop, making it the perfect spot for lazy days in the sun and long walks along the water's edge.
Pals Golf Club, the first course to open on the Costa Brava back in the 1960s, winds through century-old pine woodland planted on former dunes. This par-73, 18-hole course is prized for its technical layout and Mediterranean setting. The rice fields of Pals, a living piece of the Baix Empordà's agricultural heritage, create a landscape unlike anywhere else in the region. Cultivated for centuries, these fields are best explored on foot or by bike, along quiet paths that invite visitors to take in the natural surroundings and discover local tradition.
Every Tuesday morning, Pals market brings together local farmers, producers and residents on Avenida Europa, offering a lively introduction to Catalan gastronomy. Stalls are laden with seasonal fruit and vegetables, mature cheeses, local oils and Pals rice, including the Bomba variety grown in the region’s paddies since the 15th century.
Prized for its ability to absorb flavour while retaining its texture, this rice forms the basis of many traditional Catalan dishes. In June, local food events celebrate this centuries-old tradition, reflecting the continuing importance of the rice fields to the area’s agricultural identity.
The gastronomy of Pals brings together produce from land and sea in an authentically Catalan style. Sol Blanc, a farmhouse restaurant set among the rice fields, serves seasonal cooking built around rice, reinterpreted according to the chef's inspiration. Um Pals, located in the centre of the village, focuses on market-fresh produce and Mediterranean flavours. Along with Sol Blanc, it is an excellent choice for anyone looking to discover some of the best restaurants on the Costa Brava.
The surrounding Baix Empordà countryside is also known for its vineyards, making wine tastings a natural complement to a meal or a day spent exploring the region.
A short drive from Pals, Begur rises on its hilltop, crowned by the remains of an 11th-century castle with sweeping views over the Costa Brava. The village, shaped by the "Indiano" houses built by emigrants who made their fortune in the Americas, blends architectural elegance with a distinctly Mediterranean atmosphere. Its coves rank among the finest in the region: Sa Tuna, a former fishing cove lined with traditional houses, Sa Riera, known for its long stretch of fine sand, and Aiguablava, renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, are among Begur's most beautiful coastal spots.
Nearby, Peratallada and Palau-sator showcase the richness of the Baix Empordà's medieval heritage, with cobbled lanes, ramparts and shaded squares. Along the coast, Calella de Palafrugell, Llafranc and Tamariu continue the journey with their picturesque harbours and seafront restaurants.
For a nature escape, the Medes Islands are a prime destination for snorkelling and diving. This protected marine reserve, reached from L'Estartit, is home to exceptional biodiversity and remarkably clear waters. Montgrí Natural Park, spanning rocky headland and coastline, offers a range of walking trails with panoramic views over the Mediterranean and the surrounding villages. The Camí de Ronda, a historic coastal path, links coves and villages all along the shore, making for an immersive walk among pines, cliffs and hidden beaches.
Villanovo offers a carefully selected range of villas on the Costa Brava, with a private pool, sea views, transfers from Barcelona Qirport or direct beach access, for an unforgettable stay with your partner, family or friends. Our holiday homes are set in the region's most sought-after destinations: Begur, Cadaqués, Llafranc, Tamariu, Lloret de Mar and beyond.
Our concierge service is on hand throughout your stay to create a truly unique experience: boat excursions, private chef, activities for children, outdoor experiences and more. For every rental, you'll receive a personalised travel journal with our top recommendations, from hidden coves to the best local restaurants and ideas for outings, so you can experience the Costa Brava in August like a local.
