Five Costa Brava locations you should consider for your next yacht charter in Spain
Well known for its glorious sunshine, golden sandy beaches, excellent nightlife and fascinating architecture, the Costa Brava is a firm favourite here at LateSail and one we highly recommend considering when planning your next sailing holiday to Spain.
Don’t be drawn to the usual hotspots of Lloret de Mar and Girona! Take a trip to some of the lesser known gems dotted along this beautiful coastline. Here’s our guide to the top five hidden gems to visit when on a yacht charter to the Costa Brava.
Some consider Barcelona the cultural centre of the Mediterranean, largely due to its abundance of art, history and magnificent architecture. And if that’s what you’re after on your next sailing holiday to Spain, you won’t be disappointed. Join your yacht at one of the marinas in Barcelona and after you’ve familiarised yourself, head inland to see some of the wonderful sights the city has to offer. Art lovers will be in their element with a whole host of galleries to visit, each teeming with art nouveau and catalan style pieces, and head over to Gaudi’s Park Güell, where the postcard famous mosaic benches, fountains and sculptures are ready to greet you.
Arc de Triomf, Barcelona
If it’s an island adventure you’re looking for, a yacht charter in Majorca may be just the thing! From the busy port town of Palma, you can easily explore the scenic coastline, stopping off to relax on the white sandy beaches of some of the island’s secluded bays. Pay a visit to the old fishing harbour of Puerto Soller where you can venture inland and discover the historic Torre Picarda or catch some rays on Cala Deia, where the shimmering cobalt waters are as inviting to humans as they are to the many species of fish that live within it! For a real treat, spend the night anchored off the edge of the Cabrera Island Nature Reserve and watch the sun go down over the tranquil view ahead of you.
Sail north from Barcelona to the municipality of Tossa de Mar, where Catalonian culture is at its best! There are a range of wonderful tourist attractions and famous landmarks to explore, as well as beautiful beaches and delicious cuisine to sample. Sailing is popular in this area and as such, there are plenty of places to moor before heading ashore. For a day full of history and mystery, pay a visit to the Vila Vella, the last fortified medieval town in the Costa Brava region. Head into the town through the magnificent courtyard and explore the ancient buildings and monuments dating back to the 14th century and pay a visit to the Gothic San Vicente Church.
One of the towers in Vila Vella
The rocky coastline that surrounds the many beaches that Tossa de Mar has to offer is perfect for exploring the underwater sea life, and you’ll be sure to see a range of colourful fish and crustaceans. If looking to anchor in one of the secluded coves, you’ll be able to enjoy a day of swimming and the golden beaches are welcoming for those looking to relax and top up their tan. Our favourite is the horseshoe shaped beach of Cala Giverola. While in Tossa, visit the Restaurant Castell Vell, with magnificent views and mouth-watering local cuisine.
A small but lively village around 45 minutes from Girona Airport, Calella de Palafrugell is a delightful little treat for those looking for something a little more authentic. Popular with Spanish mainlanders looking for some weekend relaxation, the shingle beaches and multiple coves that line the shore make for the perfect place to spend a day exploring. There are plenty of sheltered anchorages and the rocky coastline is home to some fascinating sea creatures.
Calella de Palafrugell
Ashore, visit the castle of Cap Roig and the botanical gardens, one of the most verdant areas within the whole of the Mediterranean. Here, you’ll also be able to enjoy some of your favourite musicians, including Liam Gallagher, The Criminals and Sting, during the Cap Roig Festival. Take a walk through some of the village’s narrow streets and see authentic Spanish villas, decorated in a range of pastel colours. For those looking for a culinary delight, head to the Restaurante la Vela, a firm favourite with the LateSail team, where you can order the freshest fish caught directly opposite the restaurant. We recommend trying the John Dory. Yum!
The town of L’Estartit may be small but boy does it have heaps of charm! Around 65nm from Barcelona, your scenic journey up to L’Estartit offers excellent line of sight navigation and wonderful views to the port side as you pass some of the Costa Brava’s most beautiful locations.
Costa Brava coastline
Once in L’Estartit, you’ll have many things to see and do, whether you’re looking to head ashore or spend your time on the water. For a relaxing day ashore, head to Platja de Pals where the gorgeous golden sand is lapped majestically by the azure sea. Here, you can enjoy a spot of windsurfing and kayaking, before heading to one of the quaint cafes that line the beach. Further inland, head to the old town of Torroella de Montgrí where you can visit the market and buy some of the freshest lemons and limes you’ll ever taste. We recommend grabbing some locally made chorizo too – perfect to add to a paella back on board.
For those looking to spend more time on board, head over to Medes Islands, a short passage across the water from the many mooring areas on the mainland. Here, you’ll find seven islets which are perfect for swimming, snorkelling and exploring due to its national park status. If you’re lucky, you might even see a dolphin or two!
Our final gem is that of Cadaques, a beautiful bay in the centre of the Cap de Creus peninsula, the birthplace of Salvador Dali. The area pays homage to the late artist, sculptor and surrealist, and if you are interested in his work, we strongly recommend visiting the Portlligat Museum-House where he often resided and worked from the late 1930’s until his death in 1989. In addition to this, take some time to visit Dali’s statue in the town centre.
Cadaques, Spain
A walk further into the town and up a steep hill will take you to the Santa Maria de Cadaqués church, which will reward you with spectacular views out over the town beneath you. Once inside, prepare to be overwhelmed with the magnificent alter that stands before you. One of the most notable pieces of Baroque architecture in all of Catalonia, the altar is an ornate golden monument that will take your breath away. Once your day of sightseeing is done, head to the Es Baluard restaurant, with its olde worlde feel and delicious food. We recommend the Zarzuela, a tasty fish and seafood casserole cooked in a rich sauce.
Get In Touch
If you want to know more aboutsailing in Spain, speak to one of our experts who will be happy to share their knowledge with you. Use our price comparison tool to search for charters by date or destination, request a quote or contact our team on 01227 479 900.
The Latesail team are all experienced sailors who can help you find the perfect charter. Get in touch and we are happy to provide a personal service. Call us on: 01227 479 900
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