Exploring the Costa Brava

The Costa Brava usually brings to mind images of wild nights out and sleeping off hangovers on the beach. But really, there is more to the ‘Wild Coast’ than that. The stretch of coast between the coastal resort of Palamos and L'Estartit to the north is home to some real seaside gems, without the massive resort hotels and thumping strip of nightclubs. And with loads of low-cost airlines serving the Girona Airport, this area is easily accessible with local companies offering airport transfers.

Pals

Pals is a favourite. It's a medieval town that lies on a hill with narrow streets meandering upwards where you'll be treated to far-reaching views across te surrounding plains. It lies slightly inland, but its seaside version is a lovely tranquil beach town with white sandy beaches and clear waters.  There are a number of hotels, but they are mainly smaller than the massive resorts you'll see in towns like Tossa del Mar and Lloret del Mar. It has a real traditional Spanish feel to it.

Photo by Montse Poch under Creative Commons Licence

Begur

The picturesque town of Begur is slightly touristy, but it has some interesting historical remnants strewn around town. There is a medieval castle and a Romanesque area, the town is also great for shopping especially on market day. . The best bit of Begur though is its proximity to some lovely beaches in the Sa Riera Bay. The beaches at Sa Tuna and Aiguafreda are also worth checking out.

Photo by Hans Porochelt under Creative Commons Licence

Tamariu

This small whitewashed beach side town boasts one of the Costa Brava's loveliest beaches if you're after tranquillity. It's a secluded Horseshoe shaped bay and backed by pine trees and a lovely promenade. There are only a handful of shops, cafes and eateries, but just enough to keep you fed for the day. During the summer months it can get a bit busy, but if you walk towards either end of the beach, you'll find some calmer, little inlets where you can have some peace and quiet.

Photo by Andrea Ciambra under Creative Commons Licence

Calella de Palafrugell and Llafranc

These two are worth checking out as well. They are within walking distance from each other and also boast the white washed houses typical of the region. Calella de Palafrugell boasts a number of tranquil, sandy coves which are alternated with pink-hued rocks. The sand has a bit of a pinkish colour as well. It's backed by a car-free promenade that connects the different coves and under the arches of it, you'll find some lovely cafes and restaurants. It’s easy to walk to the town of Llafranc from here which has a lovely beach as well. It's interesting worth noting that the Hotel Llafranc was once a popular hotel among people like Ernest Hemingway and Pablo Picasso.

Photo by Leonardo Falero under Creative Commons Licence

This post was written in  collaboration with Atlas Transfers. The words are my own.