The stretch of small resort cities along the Costa Brava, which means the “Rugged Coast,” feels like a world caressed by the heavens. Stand above the rocks and look down to the sweeping coastline, the sea stretching endlessly. Relax at a seaside bar, sipping cocktails while the kids play.
Hike the trails leading from the shore to the hills above. Unlike the tourist-swarmed French Riviera, the Costa Brava is intimate. It makes a great respite for families who prefer to avoid the crowds. It’s like discovering a well-guarded secret. There are several busy resort cities, but there are also many quiet and isolated beaches. Some of the prime beach cities include Roses, L’Escala and Blanes.
Driving Along the Costa Brava
One of the world's most beautiful drives is along the Costa Brava's shoreline. There are many places to stop to soak in the splendid view.
If you are the nervous type and plan to visit the Costa Brava by car, however, take the inland highway running through Figueres and Girona until you see the exit for the coastal village you plan to visit. A drive along the coastal highway, while stunningly beautiful, is downright hair-raising due to the non-stop sharp blind curves.
Costa Brava City of Figureres
The home town of Salvador Dalí, Figueres, truly owes its tourism to this famous father. The Dalí museum is the city’s biggest draw, and it contains the largest collection of his work. Outside the museum, though, many areas of the city are grungy and unappealing. It’s certainly worth a stopover for any art fan, however.
Costa Brava Attractions
- Castell de Sant Ferran in Figueres is an amazing example of 18th-century military architecture. The fortified castle’s perimeter alone is nearly two miles long. A variety of tours is available, including a combination 4x4 vehicle ride around the moat and boat ride in the cisterns.
- Museu d`Història dels Jueus a Catalunya, or Museum of the History of Jews, in Figurues features exhibits on the Catalan Jewish culture through the ages. The museum is also revitalizing the old Jewish call, or quarter.
- Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres is an absolute must for any fan of the surreal and prolific artist’s work. In his home town, the museum features the world’s largest range of Dalí’s works from his beginnings to his late career. The museum itself was designed by the artist. Some of the highlights of the collection include Atomic Leda, Galatea of the Sphere and Soft Self-Portrait with Fried Bacon.
- For a unique visit sure to please kids and adults alike, check out the Toy Museum of Catalonia in Figueres, e-mail to info@mjc-figueres.net or visit www.mjc-figueres.net), which has thousands of toys on exhibit. The collection spans puppets, trains, games, costumes, stuffed animals and more. It includes toys onced owned by famous people, including Salvador Dalí and Joan Miró.
- The Ciutadella in Roses is a medieval fortification dating back to the 1500s. Inside, archeologists have unearthed relics from the Greek occupation of the 700s B.C. and the Roman times dating back to the second century B.C.
The Costa Brava is a gem of an undiscovered family destination that features amazing food, art, and beaches. Best of all, families can enjoy these without fighting the crowds and by being more immersed in the local culture.
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