Despite being the largest and longest-established resort on the northern Costa Brava, and an important fishing port, Roses retains a quiet atmosphere. It has a wide choice of beaches around its bay, from the main 1.8-kilometre sandy stretch to tiny coves. Nearby the Cap de Creus reserve is popular with divers. Three major attractions lie within half an hour: the Dalí museum at Figueres, picturesque Cadaqués, and the Roman ruins of Empúries.
