Exploring a Mediterranean Hidden Gem: Costa Brava, Spain

CALELLA DE PALAFRUGELL - fishing village

This fishing village’s picturesque beauty is undeniable with 8 tiny beaches, quaint white houses and colorful boats. From Calella, you can take the ‘Camino de Ronda’ trail leading to the neighboring village of Llafranc.

PALS - medieval village

Let’s move from the sea into the land and explore the interior villages of the Emporda. Your first one is Pals. Located at the top of a hill, Pals has panoramic views over the fields. It has kept all its medieval walls and watchtowers, making it a historical legacy. I suggest going there at the end of the day for an ice cream.

BEGUR - small town

Begur stands out as a popular little town due to its proximity to numerous beaches and coves (Aiguablava Sa Riera). On Wednesday mornings, the village comes alive with the market. Throughout summer evenings, the streets are bustling with people strolling, enjoying drinks and shopping - if you’re looking for souvenirs, this is the spot!

PERATALLADA - medieval village

Here's another favorite! Peratallada is a unique village with charming old stone houses. It's usually less crowded than Pals and offers even better food options, especially at my beloved restaurant Cala Nena.

PALAU DE CASAVELLS - Gallery

Transformed from a farmhouse into a gallery, this location radiates beauty. They have an amazing selection of renowned and up-and-coming Spanish and International artists. Eduardo Chillida and Laurent Martin Lo, to name a few. The curation of art changes frequently.

CAMINO DE RONA - walk along the coast

The 'Camino de Ronda' is a walking trail that goes all along the Costa Brava coastline. It's a special path that lets you walk right by the sea, and you can start or stop wherever you want. If you enjoy hiking, you will love discovering the region through this walk with the most beautiful ocean views.

JARDINS DE CAP ROIG - botanical garden and concert venue

Cap Roig is a botanical garden perched on a hill overlooking the sea. During summer, it transforms into a music festival venue, welcoming renowned singers. Make sure to grab tickets early as they tend to sell out quickly. We were lucky enough to catch Norah Jones performing this year. The experience was magical, intimate and breathtaking!

MAS OLLER - wine tasting

Mas Oller is my favorite wine from the region! The winery tour is very interesting and charming. Elena, the tour guide, is truly fantastic. Her passion for wine is infectious. You’ll discover wines with a distinct taste given by the grapes that thrive near the sea. And a little gossip: Cameron Diaz crafts her own wine right here!

Day Trips:

Spend one day in Cadaques, a coastal gem renowned for its whitewashed buildings and stunning sea views. Its artistic spirit and Bohemian atmosphere have attracted creatives for generations. You can spend the day exploring its winding streets however, I'd definitely recommend staying for one or two nights. Explore Cap de Creus and visit Dali's House. Be sure to book in advance and arrive 15 minutes prior.

Where to eat:

MARGARITA - lunch in Calella

Margarita is my new go-to in Calella. Even though it's an Italian restaurant, I'm always drawn to their fish of the day, which never fails to impress and is consistently excellent. Their unique salads are a hit as well. My personal favorites are the courgette and watermelon salads. They're a must-share!

SA RASCASSA - lunch in Aiguafreda

A cherished spot! While I haven't stayed at the hotel, I adore dining at Sa Rascassa. It's accessible by boat or car, offering delicious local food, friendly staff and an intimate ambiance. You can dine either on the garden patio or if you are a guest, there is also a terrace facing the sea. Keep in mind there are only 5 rooms at the hotel.

TOC AL MAR - lunch in Aiguablava

Situated in one of Costa Brava's finest waterfront spots, Toc al Mar offers an unparalleled view of the sea. The tables are consistently occupied year after year, service after service. So, if you can go before July, it's even better. Don't miss their fish or the arroz caldoso.

LA TAVERNA DEL MAR - lunch in S'Agaro

La Taverna del Mar offers a delicious gastronomic menu or a la carte seafood options right on the beach of San Pol in S'Agaro. It's an elegant spot that used to have a dress code excluding men in swimsuits. Our meals here tend to be with long lunches that lead to enjoyable "sobre mesa" moments.

LA GANDULA - lunch on the beach

La Gandula is a nice "chiringuito" beach restaurant nestled on Sa Riera Beach. It's a good spot to have some tapas and drinks in the summer. By day, you can rent their sunbeds for a relaxing beach experience. When the sun sets, keep an eye on their Instagram for special nights featuring oysters and DJ hosted events.

UM BEGUR - lunch on the beach

Another chiringuito worth trying. Set on the long beach of Pals, it's simple and rustic. Get a cerveza along with their delicious homemade guacamole. You can also make a day of it by renting a sunbed. They don't take reservations, but their kitchen is open all day.

CALA NENA - for dinner in Peratallada

They start with a friendly chupito of Bloody Mary and serve different dishes made from local ingredients. Amazing tomatoes, meat, their special orquestra de calamar and the delicious Cala Nena lasagna. Save some space for dessert, as the Bombetes are a must-try!

COMEDOR VERDOR - dinner in the middle of bamboo fields

Comedor Verdor offers an extraordinary experience. It’s difficult to get a table and no requests beyond the menu are allowed. Yet, it's in my top 3 ever! With just a few simple dishes such as the salad, tuna, burger, or pasta, you can experience so many flavors. Share everything! It is hidden in bamboo and cash-only.

CLARA - dinner in Begur

Good ambiance, great vibes, nice sharing food and cocktails. Begur is always a good idea if you are seeking a more lively and buzzy dining experience. I go crazy for the simple yet delicious anchovie with truffle oil toasts. I tried to replicate them at home, but it's never the same.

FAR NOMO - dinner at the top of the lighthouse in Llafranc

Great views, sunsets and a mix of Japanese-Spanish flavors. This fusion restaurant is located on top of a mountain inside a lighthouse. Arrive a bit early for a drink before dinner, then get an outdoor table by the cliff facing the sea. While Nomo has other locations, Far Nomo is the one to go to. Be sure to reserve ahead of time!

LA PLACA - dinner in Madremanya

A really romantic and cozy spot tucked away in the little village of Madremanya. The restaurant is part of a hotel. At La Plaça, you'll find a quality choice of wines, along with jamón serrano, sardines, and foie gras. But before you eat, take a short walk in their private garden.

MAS SORRER, - for dinner and drinks

Mas Sorrer, a once-beloved 'hippie spot', is the ideal destination for vibrant evenings. To reach the restaurant, you'll follow a path surrounded by sunflowers. Though it was once a real hidden gem, over time, today, it has gained popularity and expanded. Check their event agenda for music performances.

COMPARTIR

The gourmet superstar of Costa Brava! Compartir proposes a creative cuisine in a spacious wood and stone patio. The emphasis is on large yet high quality dishes that are meant for sharing ('compartir' in Spanish). The perfect place if you are looking for interesting dishes and fine dining.

ES BALUARD, RESTAURANT

I have been returning to this restaurant regularly over the past years and they always maintain their excellent standards. The wine list and food, particularly the fish, are exceptional and the staff is very professional. The restaurant is all interior, but it has beautiful views. Booking in advance is advised.

CAP DE CREUS RESTAURANT

Cap de Creus restaurant is hidden in the nature reserve. You can only drive through this stunning landscape with a reservation. The sharp cliffs, coves and wind-carved rocks set the scene. You'd never expect a curry spot here, but it's surprisingly perfect! By night, it turns into a magical spot. Trust me, the journey is worth it.

TALLA

Good food, fantastic location right along the main sea walk of Cadaqués.