Blanes Holidays, Spain A long-established quiet resort and an important fishing port, Blanes is popular with north European and Spanish visitors. Its main three-kilometre long sand beach is backed by high-rise hotels and lacks character, but attractive coves are nearby. On the hill above are its castle ruins and the Mar i Murtra botanic gardens, with wonderful sea views. Nearby Marineland, a large water park, marine zoo and dolphinarium, is a major attraction.
Calella Holidays, Spain Calella is the largest resort on the southern Costa Brava and attracts Spanish and north European visitors, the vast majority on package holidays. The three-kilometre long beachfront is very well maintained and organised into areas for beach activities and water sports. Besides the huge main beach are smaller coves. Nightlife is lively with local activities in the old part of town as well as big international clubs.
Gerona Holidays, Spain Catalonia’s second city after Barcelona, Gerona is the gateway to the Costa Brava although overlooked by most visitors. Its historic centre is compact and atmospheric, with narrow cobbled streets and steep steps. Highlights are the intriguing Jewish Museum, the magnificent cathedral and beautifully preserved Arab baths. Excellent restaurants, bars and shopping complete an enjoyable excursion.
L'Estartit Holidays, Spain With a mountainous backdrop, L’Estartit occupies an attractive bay setting. This compact high-rise resort is popular with Spanish, British and north Europeans who relax on its five-kilometre long beach. Just offshore, the abundant sea life of the Illes Medes underwater reserve attracts divers from afar, plus snorkellers and glass-bottom boats from the marina. By night there are some lively bars and clubs, though local haunts can also be found.
Lloret de Mar Holidays, Spain A playground for British family holidaymakers on a budget for over four decades, densely developed Lloret de Mar is the biggest resort on this coast. The five long sandy beaches are its pride and joy, four of which are backed by pine trees. Water World Lloret is a major water park while a water taxi service links Lloret de Mar to other seaside resorts. After dark, dozens of international-themed bars and discos host an all-night party scene.
Malgrat de Mar Holidays, Spain Appealing mostly to Spanish and north European budget holidaymakers, Malgrat de Mar’s main draw is the long beach, popular for water sports. Nearby is Marineland, a major regional water park, marine zoo and dolphinarium. For other attractions Malgrat de Mar holidaymakers use the water taxi service which links to popular resorts such as Calella and Lloret de Mar.
Roses Holidays, Spain 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.
Tossa de Mar Holidays, Spain The Costa Brava’s most attractive resort, Tossa de Mar is famous for its picturesque castle and old town overlooking the main beach. This is a lovely stretch of soft golden sand with smaller pretty beaches adjacent. Popularised in the 1930s by artist Marc Chagall, Tossa retains an arty atmosphere with several galleries. The rest of town has been developed for visitors but many local touches remain and most hotel development lies beyond.
