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Discover a land where the Mediterranean meets the mountains, where every corner unveils a mosaic of landscapes, flavours and traditions that will captivate you. Here are eight reasons to make your next getaway an unforgettable and truly authentic experience.
Located in the northeast of Catalonia and Spain, just an hour from Barcelona and a stone’s throw from France, the Costa Brava is a small region, exceptionally well-connected by land, sea and air and brimming with personality. Here, every cove, every square and every hidden corner exudes the Mediterranean lifestyle, while the laid-back rhythm of life, warm afternoons, and picture-perfect sunsets create an enticing atmosphere that invites you to savour life at a leisurely pace. It’s the perfect getaway for those seeking an authentic connection with the land.
With over 200 kilometres of coastline, featuring beaches and coves nestled along its shores, as well as harbours and nautical clubs where you can enjoy sailing, scuba diving or any other water activity, the Costa Brava also seamlessly merges with the Pyrenees mountains, which rise to almost 3,000 metres in height. This stunning contrast of landscapes is linked by rolling fields of barley and wheat, along with the vineyards of the DO Empordà Wine Route. A land of remarkable richness and diversity, the union between sea and mountains makes it a unique region to explore. Strolling along the Camins de Ronda coastal paths, cycling through the landscape on the greenways, or discovering the region’s lush beech forests, volcanoes and vineyards from a hot-air balloon, are just some of the experiences on offer to delight both the eyes and the soul.
PN Zona Volcànica de la Garrotxa. Eduard Sánchez-Ribot. Arxiu Imatges PTCBG
With their crystal-clear waters, the hidden coves of the Costa Brava are a veritable natural treasure. The beauty of this destination, however, goes far beyond the sea: as we head inland, the mountain landscapes of the Girona Pyrenees also captivate us with their spectacular views, peaks shaped by time, and forests exuding tranquillity. These pristine landscapes offer an immersive experience for nature lovers and active tourism enthusiasts, where pure and authentic beauty unfolds in all its glory.
Another reason to visit this stunning region is its perfect blend of living culture and tradition. Just some of the experiences on offer include enogastronomy, music, circus and theatre festivals held in exceptional settings, as well as popular celebrations that uphold thousands of years of tradition. Among these are the living nativity scenes that take place at Christmas, Easter processions, the sing-alongs of habaneras (Cuban sea shanties) in Calella de Palafrugell, the traditional Catalan castellers (human towers), and the folkloric parades featuring giants and capgrossos (‘big heads’).
All this cultural wealth makes the Costa Brava and Girona Pyrenees a destination with soul, where visitors are immersed in a history rich in prehistoric sites, megalithic monuments, Iberian settlements and traces of Greco-Roman civilization – all of which have been proudly preserved. The region also boasts a rich cultural heritage with a wide range of museums that cater to all interests, and of a calibre worthy of geniuses such as Dalí.
Cala S'alguer. Diego Espada. Arxiu Imatges PTCBG
Tradition also permeates the local gastronomy, one of the area’s greatest attractions. With more than thirty wineries producing exceptional wines along with fresh produce from the orchards, sea and mountains, the region’s typical dishes combine authentic flavours that delight the palate. Internationally acclaimed for its creative and avant-garde cuisine, this small destination is home to 16 restaurants that boast a collective total of 20 Michelin stars and 4 Green stars. It is the birthplace of renowned chefs such as Ferran Adrià, whose iconic restaurant elBulli1846 – now transformed into a museum – revolutionised international gastronomy, and the Roca brothers with their El Celler de Can Roca, a gastronomic project in a constant state of evolution and innovation. The region is also home to a wealth of small producers who provide locally sourced products of the highest quality. This is a land where the passion for good food is reflected in every dish, creating the perfect recipe for a complete experience.
The Costa Brava is much more than a tourist destination; here, visitors are treated as our guests. That’s why we offer an endless array of unique experiences that allow them to feel part of the community: from sports activities to guided tours, excursions, tastings and more. These truly authentic activities showcase the true essence of the land, making the experience all the more enriching.
Girona. Oscar Vall. Arxiu Imatges PTCBG
Girona is the ideal destination for a charming city break. Whether you’re strolling through the Jewish Quarter, admiring the magnificent Cathedral, or being captivated by the iconic houses lining the River Onyar – these are places you don’t have to search for; you’ll simply stumble across them. A vibrant city that seamlessly blends history, culture and nature, Girona has also earned a reputation as a cycling mecca, and is a must-visit destination when exploring the Costa Brava and Girona Pyrenees.
Finally, the Costa Brava and Girona Pyrenees are home to numerous protected wildlife areas and natural parks, a vital heritage that is preserved with care and respect. The region’s commitment to sustainability is a priority and practice that extends beyond preserving the environment and local biodiversity: it also fosters mindful tourism that respects the culture, traditions, and the people who live and work in the area.
So, if you haven’t already… now is the moment to discover this exceptional place!