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A Spanish Villa Guide to the Catalonia and Costa Brava region

Catalonia and Costa Brava summary

From the French border in the north to Barcelona in the south, the Costa Brava and Catalonia region of Spain has one of the most beautiful coastlines in Europe. And, you can still find the rugged and beautiful Catalonia using a villa or an apartment as a great base from which to explore.

Introducing Catalonia and Costa Brava

For many the southern part of the Catalonia and Costa Brava region has been spoilt by too much commercial tourism development, particularly around the large package resort of Lloret. However, in the northern part of the region you will find the real Catalonia and Costa Brava - gloriously unspoilt, ruggedly beautiful and blessed with gorgeous sandy coves and fishing villages.

Catalonia and Costa Brava weather / climate

Catalonia and Costa Brava has a mild climate, with sunny winters and hot dry summers – althougth you can expect the odd stormy day or night. Many visitors target the months to visit of May, June and July for their visits as August can be quite humid whilst September is often gloriously warm and sunny. Please note that the evenings can often be quite cool in the spring and so pack a jacket or jumper.  
Typical Catalonia and Costa Brava temperatures
     

Catalonia and Costa Brava beaches

The Costa Brava has one of the most spectacular coastlines in Europe, with gorgeous sandy coves, quaint fishing villages and rugged pine clad cliffs.

What to do and see

Gerona is the regional capital of the Costa Brava and is situated approximately 50 km inland. It is a beautiful city, rich in culture and tradition. You will find the cathedral, arab baths and old quarter enchanting whilst the riverside promenade is very lively in the evening. If you venture further north to Figueres you will find the Salvador Dali museum which is a truly surreal and memorable experience. Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia and considered by many to be the most exciting and fashionable city in Europe. Barcelona can be easily reached from both Sitges and the Costa Brava. Barcelona is worth some time on your holiday itinerary with a host of attractions. Well worth a visit are the cathedral, Olympic park, the Ramblas and Antonio Gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece, the Sacrada Familia church. Situated just 40 km from Barcelona, Sitges has a deserved reputation as one of the hidden jewels of Catalonia. Although it was once the weekend retreat for wealthy businessmen from Barcelona, Sitges’ appearance has barely changed in 100 years. It is perhaps now one of the most chic and fashionable resorts in Spain, blessed with designer shops, superb restaurants and an exciting nightlife to complement its wonderful sandy beach and rich cultural and artistic tradition.

Shopping and eating

It is generally considered that the Catalan cuisine is the finest in Spain, as it combines French flair with local produce. In the major towns and cities international food is readily available but by the sea the restaurants tend to specialise in freshly caught fish and grilled meats, with lots of salads. As you would expect, small local restaurants often offer better food and definitely better prices. Supermarkets stock everything you would find at home, although local produce is naturally cheaper than imported goods, which can be relatively expensive. Barcelona offers outstanding shopping, whilst Sitges boasts many stylish boutiques and interesting fashions. Andorra in the Pyrenees is excellent value for duty free purchases, although be careful of the Spanish customs if you are stocking up!

Golf and other sport activities

The Costa Brava has over 15 superb golf courses and you will find more further south near Barcelona. You will find that green fees start from around £30 and most courses are open to non-members, particularly midweek.

With such a great coastline, you will also find that most resorts will offer sailing, windsurfing and various other watersports.

Getting to and around Catalonia and Costa Brava

The main Costa Brava resorts are about ¾ hour’s drive from Gerona Airport or 2 hours from Barcelona or Perpignan Airports. Gerona is served by daily low cost flights from several UK airports, as well as charter flights including low-cost, scheduled and charter flights. Barcelona is seved by daily scheduled and low cost flights from most UK airports. Alternatively, you can drive from Calais to the Costa Brava in around 12-14 hours. The main toll motorway links France with Barcelona and the rest of Spain and most of the Costa Brava resorts are 30-40 km from the motorway. Generally, the road system in Catalonia is very good, but it can be busy around Barcelona.

 

 

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