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In secluded spots surrounded by unspoilt nature, small stone coves offer a wonderful sea and sun bathing experience
The Costa Brava is full of beautiful sandy beaches that are great for enjoying the sea, but it also has small stone coves in gorgeous hidden places that are not always as easy or quick to get to. The search, the journey and the discovery are all part of the unique experience. Along the Girona coastline there is an infinite number of them, each with its own distinctive features and attractions. Here are six that you can find between Portbou and Tamariu.
Starting in the north, our eyes are on Les Fresses, a truly special cove: unspoilt, abrupt and small, measuring only 20 metres in length. It’s practically on the border with France, near the small island called Illa del Corb Marí and the peak of Puig de Cervera, about four kilometres from Portbou near the so-called Caseta dels Alemanys [German Hut].
A little further down we come to Cala Bramant, also known as the Lovers’ Cove. This small stony cove is almost completely enclosed by the surrounding cliffs and offers views of Cap de Creus. Located to the north of Llançà, you’ll have to park at Grifeu or Cap Ras and walk from there along the small beaches of Cros and Canyelles until you reach the cliffs above, which make for an amazing viewpoint. To go down to the cove, you’ll need suitable footwear. We also suggest bringing some snorkelling equipment along so that you can discover the marvellous underwater environment. This romantic slice of paradise is just a 12-minute walk from the Llançà train station.
There are plenty of coves in Cadaqués, but one stands out above the rest due to its unique geological formation: Cala Jugadora. Located near Cap de Creus lighthouse, it consists of two beaches, one pebbly and the other sandy, both featuring calm, crystal-clear water and the remnants of stone constructions where fishermen used to gather. It’s sheltered from the wind and can be reached via the bridge joining the northern and southern part of the sea, along a path that leads to both this cove and the equally incredible Cala Bona.
Cala Culip is one of the most beautiful, unspoilt coves in Cap de Creus, reachable on foot from the Pla de Tudela car park. Along the way you’ll discover surprising rocks shaped like animals. A place of inspiration for Dalí, it’s loved by children and adults alike. Make sure to bring goggles or a diving mask because the seabed is amazing! And, especially in high season, try and get there as early as you can to save yourself a spot.
Platja de Canadell beach is 11 kilometres from Roses, under Cap Norfeu, and a 10-minute walk down a path through the protected flora of the natural park. It’s a large cove that can also be reached via the marvellous coastal path that links Cap de Creus and Roses. Sheltered by small hills, it has shade at both ends throughout the day, making it ideal for enjoying an afternoon of peace, picnics and swimming around its mesmerising underwater world.
The small and charming Cala d’Aigua Dolça is the last cove on our list. Located near Tamariu’s Platja Gran, it’s populated by golden pebbles and pine trees. The natural area is remarkable thanks to the spring it gets its name from and the small jetty for adventurers arriving from out at sea.
