Costa Brava: The Wild Coast Where Pyrenees Meet Mediterranean
The Costa Brava, which translates as "Wild Coast" or "Rough Coast," describes Catalonia's northeastern Mediterranean beachfront, extending approximately 200 kilometres from Blanes (60 km northeast of Barcelona) to the French border. Ferran Agulló i Vidal invented the name in a September 1908 article in the Catalan newspaper La Veu de Catalunya, describing the mountainous environment between the Tordera River and Banyuls (France).
The region's geology gives it its distinct character: the Gavarres Massif meets the sea, resulting in a coastline of craggy cliffs, Pyrenean stone pines, attractive coves, and beaches ranging from white sand to pebbles. The moderate and temperate Mediterranean environment, along with magnificent beaches and advantageous exchange rates, make the Costa Brava an attractive location for tourism development.
During the 1950s, the Spanish government and local businesses recognised the Costa Brava's tourism potential and built numerous hotels and apartments in beach resorts such as Blanes, Tossa de Mar, and Lloret de Mar. Tourism quickly supplanted fishing as the primary business.
The Costa Brava has magnificent hidden coves. Cala Tamariua in Port de la Selva is located between two hills and can be reached via a half-kilometer trail. It is the ideal combination of beach and mountain, with dark gravel, deep waters, and a naturist-friendly section. Cala Estreta, a forty-minute walk from Es Castell beach in Palamós, with crystal-clear waters suitable for snorkelling.
Cala S'Alguer near Palamós was designated a cultural interest site by the Generalitat in 1972—a rocky bay with colourful fishermen's homes that resembled a Costa Brava postcard. Aigua Xelida in northern Tamariu is divided into two areas separated by rocks and surrounded by pine trees— ideal for late afternoon diving. Aiguablava's blues and greens, shallow waters, and fine, transparent sand set it apart from rockier coves, as does the National Parador located on the Punta d'es Mut cliff.
Costa Dorada (Golden Coast), named after its golden sand beaches, stretches throughout eastern Spain, offering family-friendly beaches and mild weather. Major destinations include Salou, Tarragona (which combines Roman remains with a beach lifestyle), and Cambrils.
