The Costa Brava, located in the northeast of Catalonia, stretches from Blanes to Cape Creus, near Portbou. It is one of the most attractive areas of the Mediterranean, known for its hidden coves, charming villages, spectacular landscapes, and a tourist offer that combines nature, culture, gastronomy, and adventure. Whether you’re looking for tranquility or excitement, the Costa Brava offers a complete experience for all tastes and ages.
Landscapes and Iconic Towns
The name “Costa Brava” was coined by journalist Ferran Agulló in 1908, referring to the rugged and wild nature of its coastline. Its crystal-clear waters and pine-covered cliffs have captivated generations of artists such as Salvador Dalí, Josep Pla, and Marc Chagall. Towns like Cadaqués, with its maze of whitewashed streets and proximity to Cape Creus, represent the most iconic image of this coastline.
Other villages such as Calella de Palafrugell, Llafranc, Begur, or Tamariu preserve their traditional seafaring charm, with small fishermen’s houses and boats resting on the sand. Further south, Blanes and Lloret de Mar offer a mix of wide beaches, nightlife, and botanical gardens such as Marimurtra. Inland, Besalú and Peratallada impress visitors with their extraordinary medieval heritage.
Discover all the hot air balloon flights we offer on the Costa Brava at this link
Active Tourism and Outdoor Activities
The Costa Brava is a paradise for lovers of outdoor activities. In addition to classic water sports such as kayaking, scuba diving, or sailing, there are many ways to explore its natural surroundings from another perspective. Hiking routes, like the Camí de Ronda that follows the coast along old fishermen’s paths, allow you to enjoy breathtaking views between cliffs and turquoise coves.
You can also practice sports like climbing, mountain biking, or golf, thanks to the area’s varied terrain and landscapes. Inland, the Gavarres Massif, the Montgrí range, and the Empordà plain are ideal for excursions or cycling routes. Natural reserves such as Cap de Creus Natural Park or Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park offer unique environments for birdwatching, native flora observation, and spectacular geological formations.
Hot Air Balloon Flights, an Unforgettable Experience
Among all the activities available on the Costa Brava, hot air balloon flights stand out for their magic and uniqueness. Flying over the Empordà at sunrise is an experience that blends excitement, serenity, and natural beauty. From the air, the landscape unfolds in a palette of colors that shift with the light: fields, rivers, vineyards, and the Mediterranean Sea merge into a unique mosaic.
Companies offering these flights usually operate from areas like Banyoles, Torroella de Montgrí, or Santa Pau, allowing passengers to see, in a single journey, the Pyrenees, Cape Creus, and the Gulf of Roses. During the flight, participants enjoy absolute silence, broken only by the gentle roar of the burner. At the end, it’s traditional to toast with cava and enjoy a local breakfast, turning the experience into an unforgettable memory.
This activity is perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape or for families and groups of friends wanting to live a different kind of adventure. Flights are available year-round, as the Mediterranean climate provides good conditions most of the time.
Gastronomy, flavors from the Sea and the Land
The cuisine of the Costa Brava reflects its geographical diversity, a perfect balance between sea and mountain. Its most iconic dishes include suquet de peix (fish stew), anchovies from L’Escala, seafood rice dishes, and Palamós prawns, considered among the tastiest in the Mediterranean. “Surf and turf” dishes such as chicken with langoustines or rabbit with cuttlefish are also traditional.
Inland, cold cuts from La Garrotxa and grilled meats served with white beans are local classics. The Costa Brava is also a land of wines — the Empordà Denomination of Origin produces characterful wines born from a long winemaking tradition, which can be discovered through winery visits and guided tastings.
Local markets like those in Palafrugell or Figueres showcase fresh, local produce. For fine dining lovers, the region hosts internationally renowned restaurants, including legendary culinary landmarks such as Ferran Adrià’s El Bulli and other Michelin-starred establishments.
Culture, History, and Traditions
The Costa Brava is not only about nature and beaches; it’s also a land of culture and heritage. The legacy of Salvador Dalí is omnipresent, especially in Figueres (home to the famous Dalí Theatre-Museum), in Portlligat (where his house-museum is located), and at Púbol Castle. In addition, the Greco-Roman ruins of Empúries, the medieval monasteries of Sant Pere de Rodes and Sant Feliu de Guíxols, and fortified villages such as Pals or Monells offer a journey through history.
Traditional festivals, such as the havaneres of Calella de Palafrugell or various gastronomic and medieval fairs, keep the local spirit and traditions alive.
In summary, the Costa Brava is much more than a sun-and-beach destination — it’s a blend of emotion, nature, culture, and flavor. From its hidden coves to the mountain peaks that frame it, from the table of a fine restaurant to a silent flight over the Empordà fields, everything invites discovery and contemplation. Ultimately, it’s a place that captures the heart of every visitor and leaves an indelible mark on the memory.
Discover all the hot air balloon flights we offer on the Costa Brava at this link
