A Guide to the Costa Brava’s most Beautiful villages

Posted on 29 September 2025 by Richard Calvin

When people think of the Costa Brava, their mind usually jumps straight to golden beaches, turquoise coves, and long summer evenings by the sea. And while the coastline truly is spectacular, the soul of this region lies just as much in its villages. Perched on hilltops, hidden in pine forests, or hugging the shoreline, these small towns are where history, culture, and everyday Catalan life meet.

If you’re staying in a villa on the Costa Brava, discovering these villages will give you a deeper sense of place. Each has its own character, whether it’s cobblestoned medieval alleys, white fishing houses, or lively town squares where time seems to slow down.

Here are some of the most beautiful villages you shouldn’t miss.

Pals: A Step Back to Medieval Times

Pals feels like it was designed for slow wandering. Its narrow stone streets, arches, and towers date back centuries, and it’s one of the best-preserved medieval villages in Catalonia. Climb the Torre de les Hores for sweeping views of the Empordà countryside, dotted with rice fields that glow green in summer.

Why visit?

Perfect for a morning walk before heading to the nearby beaches.
Great mix of history and gastronomy: Try a traditional rice dish in a local restaurant.

Peratallada: The Hidden Gem

Just a short drive from Pals, Peratallada is a jewel of medieval architecture. Its name literally means “carved stone,” and the village is built almost entirely out of it. Think winding alleys, charming courtyards, and bougainvillea climbing up honey-colored walls.

Why visit?

Ideal for couples or families who enjoy wandering without an agenda.
Lovely cafés tucked into old stone houses, perfect for a long lunch.

Cadaqués: Where Art Meets the Sea

On the far eastern edge of the Costa Brava lies Cadaqués, a whitewashed fishing village that has captured the hearts of artists and dreamers for decades. Salvador Dalí spent much of his life here, and it’s easy to see why: the light, the rocky coast, and the creative spirit are unlike anywhere else.

Why visit?

Walk along the seafront promenade and enjoy the Mediterranean views.
Explore Dalí’s house in Portlligat, just a short walk away.
A lively yet laid-back atmosphere that mixes tradition with bohemian charm.

The white houses and the blue coast of Cadaqués create a beautiful contrast — Cadaqués. Photo credits to Ramón Casadó

Calella de Palafrugell: A Classic by the Sea

This small seaside town is often considered the postcard of the Costa Brava. Low white houses line the shore, fishing boats rest on the sand, and in the evenings, locals gather on terraces for fresh seafood and live music. The village also hosts the famous Cap Roig music festival every summer.

Why visit?

Family-friendly beaches right in the heart of town.
Fantastic walking sections of the Camí de Ronda nearby.
One of the most authentic spots to enjoy paella by the sea.

Begur: Castles and Coastline Views

Begur combines the charm of a hilltop village with easy access to some of the Costa Brava’s most stunning coves. The town’s castle ruins overlook the coast, and its streets are lined with colorful houses, many of which show Cuban influence from locals who emigrated and returned centuries ago.

Why visit?

A perfect balance between culture and beach life.
Bustling summer evenings with great restaurants and wine bars.
Close to hidden coves like Sa Tuna and Aiguablava.

Monells: A Fairytale Setting

Tucked inland, Monells feels like stepping onto a movie set—and in fact, it has been. The village square, surrounded by stone arcades, is one of the prettiest in the region. It’s quieter than Pals or Peratallada, making it a lovely stop if you want to escape the crowds.

Why visit?

Less touristy atmosphere, ideal for a peaceful walk.
A chance to explore rural Catalonia beyond the coast.

Tossa de Mar: History by the Beach

Tossa de Mar is unique because it combines a lively seaside beach with a medieval walled old town. The Vila Vella, with its towers overlooking the sea, is the only fortified medieval town still standing on the Catalan coast.

Why visit?

Stunning blend of history and beach relaxation.
Great choice if you’re traveling with kids and want variety in one place.

The walls of Tossa de Mar, one of the most beautiful villages in the Costa Brava — Tossa de Mar. Photo credits to Serhii Kuznietsov

Making the Most of Your Stay

The beauty of staying in a villa on the Costa Brava is that you can explore these villages at your own pace. Some make for a quick morning trip, others deserve a whole day. Renting a car is the easiest way to reach them, and many can be combined into the same outing, for example, Pals, Peratallada, and Begur are all close together.

If you’d like a complete itinerary with recommended routes, hidden beaches, and tips on how long to spend in each spot, you can check out this Costa Brava travel guide for more inspiration.

The Costa Brava is more than just a coastline, it’s a patchwork of villages that reveal the region’s history, culture, and everyday beauty. Whether you’re sipping wine in Peratallada, climbing castle steps in Begur, or watching the sunset in Calella de Palafrugell, each village will leave its own mark on your trip.

And the best part? From your villa, they’re all within easy reach. Click here to rent a villa now!

Costa Brava filming locations

Posted on 4 February 2021 by Richard Calvin

A brief history of the Costa Brava filming locations

The Costa Brava has long been a popular location for Movie and TV Shoots. The first recorded production was entitled “Amor de Pescadora” by Eduard Marquina and was shot in Tossa de Mar in 1914. It is easy to find Costa Brava filming locations all along this stretch of coastline and below i outline some of the major movies to be shot here.

Movies shot on the Costa Brava during the 1950’s

Perhaps the Golden age of Movies shot on the Costa Brava with some of the biggest names in Hollywood filming here.

1951 Pandora and the Flying Dutchman staring Ava Gardner and James Mason. This was the first big North American movie to be filmed on the Costa Brava. Filmed entirely on location including the coastal towns of Tossa de Mar, Palamos, S’Agaro and Platja d’Aro. 1951 was the year that Ava Gardner and Frank Sinatra married.

1952 Decameron Nights shot in Cala Francesc, Blanes starred Joan Fontaine and a young Joan Collins.

1956 The Spanish Gardener filmed in various locations along the Costa Brava including Palamos, Sant Feliu de Guxols, S’Agaro and Tossa de Mar. Dirk Bogarde was supported in the main role by Jon Whiteley and Cyril Cusack among others.

1958 Sea Fury filmed in Begur and staring Stanley Baker.

1959 Suddenly Last Summer was a blockbuster movie staring big name stars such as Elizabeth Taylor and Katharine Hepburn. Filmed in various locations including Pals, Begur and Sant Feliu de Guixols.

Costa Brava filming locations from the 1960’s onwards

Notable movies shot on the Costa Brava from the 1960’s onwards include:

1960 The three worlds of Gulliver Staring Kerwin Mathews.

1961 Mysterious Island staring Michael Craig and Herbert Lom

1968 Some Girls Do staring Richard Johnson

1970 The light at the edge of the World staring Yul Brynner and Kirk Douglas

1971 Nicholas and Alexandra staring a long list of stars including Tom Baker, Laurence Olivier, Fiona Fullerton and Michael Redgrave.

1977 Valentino staring Rudolf Nureyev, Felicity Kendal

1992 1492: Conquest of Paradise Directed by Ridley Scott and staring Sigourney Weaver and Gerard Depardieu

Game of Thrones and Westworld filming location

More recently Girona was selected as a filming location for the celebrated series Game of Thrones. Visiting Girona to see the GoT filming locations is a popular day trip from the Costa Brava.

Part of the Westworld Series 2 was filmed in the medieval village of Besalu which was turned into a WW11 movie set for a couple of weeks.

Commercial shooting locations Spain

Over the years Charming Villas Catalonia has provided locations for numerous TV commercial and product catalog shoots. We have also worked with production companies from all over the world and provided Catalonia location shooting for the following shows:

Linnan tähdet from Finland, Playing it Straight from the UK, Ocho apellidos Catalanes from Spain and Red Light from the Netherlands.

Luxury villas on the Costa Brava

At Charming Villas Catalonia we have an extensive portfolio of high standard vacation homes in and around Tamariu. Please browse our selection of luxury Costa Brava villas and farmhouses. We have visited all of the properties on our website on multiple occasions. Our aim is to offer un-biased opinions on each property and help our clients choose the best property for their needs.

Locally based we offer a free Costa Brava concierge service to all our clients and can help arrange extra services and activities. We can give suggestions of day-trips and put together bespoke days out including some of our off the beaten track favorites.

Costa Brava soccer training camps

Posted on 17 January 2021 by Richard Calvin

Football training camps Barcelona and Costa Brava

Considering a family vacation close to Barcelona or the Costa Brava and looking for ideas of healthy activities for your kids? Then a Costa Brava soccer training campus could be a good option for you and your children.

Xavi football campus 2020 (photo credit Campus Xavi)

Choosing the right Costa Brava football campus for you

There’s various soccer training camps on the Costa Brava to choose from. Here at Charming Villas Catalonia we are here to help you choose the right one for you and your family. There’s a whole host of Important factors to consider before deciding which campus is right for you.

Start and finish dates. Are you looking for a one week, two week or longer campus?
Prestige and reputation. It’s an important investment you are making so you need to be sure it’s the right one.
Safety for your kids. Let us go through in detail with you Covid-19 safety protocol of each campus.
Location. Quite possibly the most important decision of all. Choosing a location close enough to the campus yet also close to other amenities and beaches. Outside of football time you want to make the most of what the region has to offer.

Cadaques, Costa Brava — Cadaques on the Costa Brava

Soccer training camps on the Costa Brava

Girona football club is the biggest soccer club in the Costa Brava region. Currently in the 2nd tier of Spanish football after a recent stint in the top division alongside the most famous Catalan club of all Barça. Girona hold a five week campus normally from the last week of June and throughout July.

Campus Xavi is located close to the town of Banyoles. Banyoles is famed for its natural lake, scene of the 1992 Olympic rowing events. The campus location is around one hour from Costa Brava beaches and 20 minutes from the medieval village of Besalu.

The Costa Brava is home to many other football summer camps and we can help you plan the best one for your needs. Why not combine a week at a soccer campus with a week at a tennis campus? Or golf lessons for children at one of the many high standard golf courses on the Costa Brava? We offer a free concierge service to all our clients where we can help you plan all your activities and extra services.

Browse our selection of luxury Costa Brava villas and farmhouses. We have a vacation rental home on the Costa Brava for every taste and occasion.

Where to stay on the Costa Brava?

Posted on 22 April 2020 by Richard Calvin

This blog post is designed for those who are planning on visiting Catalonia and the Costa Brava for the first time. This is also for people who are seeking information about where to stay and what to do in the region. Below is a basic map highlighting the Costa Brava and the Maresme coastlines.

The Maresme coastline starts from Barcelona and finishes at Blanes. From Blanes the Costa Brava ends over 200 kilometers later at the French border. The Costa Brava can be split into three rough sections; Northern, central and Southern sections. Blanes to Palamos is the southern section. The middle section from Palafrugell to L’Estartit and the northern section from L’Escala to Portbou.

The middle and Northern sections

Middle and Northern sections of the Costa Brava are somewhat less developed (with one or two exceptions). These are also more family orientated and this is where the vast majority of our properties are located.

Popular locations are Begur (and it’s beaches of Sa Riera, Sa Tuna, Aiguablava). The beaches of Palafrugell – Tamariu, Llafranc and Calella de Palafrugell. Cadaques is the jewel of the Northern section of the Costa Brava.

For first time visitors to the Costa Brava i normally recommend the area around Begur/Tamariu. There’s a lot to see and do in a compact area and day-trips to explore the north or south of the Costa Brava are doable. Here is a map showing the main coves and beaches of the Begur/Palafrugell area;

Begur beaches — The beaches of Begur and Palafrugell

Cadaques, the pearl of the Costa Brava

Cadaques in the north is probably our favorite coastal town on the whole of the Costa Brava. There’s only one road in and out of town and it is a windy mountain road which can take up to 30 minutes’ from the neighboring town of Roses. Once you finally descend into Cadaques the mountain road adventure is quickly forgotten. The town has a unique charm and ambiance which has been preserved down the centuries. This is in part thanks to it’s relative isolation from the rest of the Costa Brava located on the end of the Cap de Creus peninsula.

Cadaques has seen many artists staying over the years including Picasso, Man Ray, Duchamp, Joan Miro. Most famously of all Salvador Dali who lived a large part of his life in the neighboring Port Lligat. This link to the rich history of Cadaques is tangible today in the many local artists galleries you will find among the narrow cobbled streets of the town. The town has a somewhat Bohemian atmosphere and a wonderful selection of good quality restaurants.

However i am always cautious on recommending Cadaques to first time visitors to the region because of it’s isolated location. If travelling around visiting other towns/beaches is an important factor this can be quite a tiresome experience driving over the mountain road every day. For people who like to explore other areas i recommend finding a base in the Begur/Tamariu area and then taking a day trip to Cadaques during your holiday.

Costa Brava vacation villas

At Charming Villas Catalonia we offer a selection of luxury Costa Brava holiday villas with pools and villas with heated pools. Let us know your important criteria and we will help you find the perfect vacation rental in Catalonia.

This post is just a rough guide and with our clients we go into much more detail not only with location and villa selection but also, if needed, advice and help planning activities and day trip itineraries. Please contact Sara or Richard at catalonia@charmingvillas.net for more information.

Tennis clubs on the Costa Brava

Posted on 1 February 2017 by Richard Calvin

The Costa Brava and the province of Girona has a great selection of Tennis clubs of which probably the most well know is the club at Llafranc. Llafranc tennis club has a total of 17 clay courts and two hard courts. There’s also five Padel courts and a 25m swimming pool.

Llafranc tennis club (photo credit Llafranc tennis club)

Where to play tennis on the Costa Brava

Here is a list of some of the better known clubs on the Costa Brava and region of Girona:

Club Tennis L’Escala

Club Tennis Figueres

Club Tennis La Bisbal

Club Tennis Costa Brava

Summer tennis campuses

Many of the tennis clubs in the Girona province offer a summer campus for children of all ages. There’s different tennis camps for different ages and levels of ability. A summer tennis campus for children on the Costa Brava is a great idea for so many reasons. Kids get to exercise, learn a sport, make new friends and parents get a bit of time off 😎

During the villa selection process Charming Villas Catalonia can offer suggestions of vacation rentals based on proximity to tennis clubs. Get in touch and let us help you select the perfect holiday villa on the Costa Brava for your needs.

Costa Brava villas with tennis courts

Looking for a villa or farmhouse on the Costa Brava with it’s own tennis court? Let us guide you through our selection of suitable properties.

Here is a map listing all the Costa Brava tennis clubs in the area:

At Charming Villas Catalonia we can book tennis courts for our clients at most of the clubs listed in the above map. Just let us know your preferences for a clay court or hard court and we will do the rest. As well as tennis check out more activities and extra services we can help plan for our clients.

Golf courses on the Costa Brava

Posted on 10 March 2015 by Richard Calvin

The Costa Brava is not just about the amazing beaches and award winning cuisine. Here you will find some of the best Golf courses on the Costa Brava in Spain with no less than eight top class courses to choose from.
Built in 1966 the golf course at Pals was one of the first to be built on the Costa Brava. Today it is still a firm favorite with many golfers. The PGA Catalunya resort has two courses, built in 1999 and 2005 respectively and is perhaps regarded as the best golf course in Catalonia, if not the whole of Spain.

Costa Brava golf clubs — Golf clubs on the Costa Brava

Why choose the Costa Brava as your golf vacation destination?

Here’s some reasons why the Costa Brava is the best destination in Spain for golfers. Catalonia’s mild climate is perfect for golf. Not too hot in the height of summer and warm enough in Spring and Autumn, the climate is a winner. Discover the Costa Brava coastline with it’s pristine fishing villages and beaches. Sample the local Catalan cuisine and wines.

Costa Brava golf courses

Below is a list of all the major golf courses to be found on the Costa Brava and province of Girona.

Club de Costa Brava, Santa Cristina d’Aro

Torremirona golf club, Navata

Peralada golf club, Peralada

Club golf D’Aro, Mas Nou, Platja d’Aro

Emporda golf resort, Torroella de Montgri

Golf de Pals, Pals Begur

PGA Catalunya golf, Caldes de Malavella

Choosing the best location for your Spain golf vacation

At Charming villas Catalonia we have a selection of high quality Costa Brava golf vacation villas to choose from. Locally based we know the area very well and are here to help our clients get the most out of their stay. Not only can we secure Tee times at your chosen club but we also offer our clients a free concierge service. There’s so much to see and do on the Costa Brava let us guide you and help plan your non-golf activities. Boat charter, private chefs, day trips to Cadaques, Game of thrones tour in Girona. These are just some of the ideas we can share and help arrange.

Here is a map with the locations of all the golf courses indicated:

The best Costa in Spain?

Posted on 14 February 2014 by Richard Calvin

Which is the best Costa in Spain is a question we are asked from time to time. Spain has no less than 13 Costas to choose from. Nine of which are on the Mediterranean coastline from the Catalan Costa Brava in the north on the border with France down to the Costa del Sol on the southern tip of Spain.

The Costa Brava, the best Costa in Spain

We have visited most of the Costas and for us the hands down winner is the Costa Brava. In fact we liked it so much we decided to come and live here!

There’s a number of reasons why we love the Costa Brava so much. From its intimate hidden coves, the climate, the people, its culture, the food, its medieval villages. For us the all round general ambiance make the Costa Brava the best coastal region in Spain.

Early tourism on the Costa Brava

The Costa Brava was the very first Costa in Spain to welcome holiday makers back in the 1950’s and 60’s. For many people the Costa Brava conjures up images of tacky package holidays, fish and chips and sangria. It well may have been like that in the 1960’s but not any longer. Because of the rugged nature of the Costa Brava coastline the developers quickly moved further south in search of flatter, more accessible land to build their high rise apartment blocks and for the most part left the Costa Brava behind. So today the Costa Brava is perhaps one of the better preserved Mediterranean coastal areas. What we have are fishing villages, unspoiled coves and a distinct lack of large hotels, apartment blocks and package holidays.

Aigua Gelida, Tamariu — Aigua Xelida, Tamariu

With the exception of Lloret de Mar you will find very little package tourism, loud all night bars or drunken teenagers on the Costa Brava. There’s a more laid back family orientated culture here with holiday makers from a wide selection of countries from all around the world. A lot of Catalan and Spanish people who have second residences in the area.

The temperatures on the Costa Brava do not reach the heights of those on the Costa del Sol although an average of the mid 30’s in July and August is hot enough for most people.

What to do on the Costa Brava?

The province of Girona has a lot more to offer the traveler than just a fantastic coastline. There’s loads of things to see and do in the region. Choose from visiting unspoiled medieval villages, the Dali triangle, visiting the beech forests of the extinct volcanic region of La Garrotxa. Take a nice walk around the lake of Banyoles and visit the weekly farmers market.

A view of Banyoles lake along a jetty — Banyoles lake just after sunrise

Catalan cuisine

Then of course there’s the food! With a great selection of fresh local products at their disposal Catalan chefs are recognized worldwide as innovators from the record five time No1 restaurant in the world El Bulli to the current No1, El Celler de Can Roca in Girona. But it is not just all about Michelin star restaurant food as the general standard in the region is very good.

The best bits of the Costa Brava? The area around Begur and Palafrugell with its small bays and coves is very popular as is the Dali famed Cadaques. We also like the coastal village of Sant Marti d’Empuries which does not get as crowded as Begur or Cadaques and has nice beaches and a few decent restaurants to choose from.

The beach of AiguaBlava, Begur — Aigua Blava, Begur

So for us the question “which is the best Costa in Spain?” is a resounding Costa Brava!

Costa Brava water parks

Posted on 12 June 2013 by Richard Calvin

Water parks on the Costa Brava

The Costa Brava has three water parks suitable for a great family day out.

Aqua Brava in the northern section of the Costa Brava close to the town of Roses is a water park which has no less than 18 attractions to choose from. Aqua Brava. When tired of the water park (as if!) there’s also the nearby Roses Go-Carts to keep both young and older occupied.

Roses sits at the northern end of the Costa Brava and has many options of activities for the whole family. As well as the water part and Go-Karts there’s also the Wind Tunnel at Empuriabrava or if you are feeling brave Empuriabrava sky diving. Close to Roses is the coastal town of Cadaques, one of the prettiest and unspoiled towns on the Costa Brava.

Close to Lloret de Mar, Water world is a well known water park which was first opened in 1985. Water world Lloret The park has around 20 rides and is a firm favorite for all the family.

Water World Llorett de Mar — Water World Lloret de Mar

Aquadiver is another water park situated close to Platja de Aro with around 15 rides for all the family. Aqua Diver

Where to stay on the Costa Brava

At Charming Villas Catalonia we offer our clients a selection of hand picked vacation rentals on the Costa Brava. Browse our collection of beachfront holiday villas and large country farmhouses. Locally based we know the Costa Brava and province of Girona very well and offer our clients a free concierge service. We can help set up extra services and activities as well as suggest interesting day trip itineraries.

Cala Sant Francesc, Blanes

Posted on 5 May 2013 by Richard Calvin

The Costa Brava coastline around Blanes

Blanes is the last coastal town on the Costa Brava before it becomes the Maresme which then arrives at Barcelona. Cala Sant Francesc is perhaps the prettiest beach of all the beaches close to Blanes.

The lovely little bay of Cala Bona (as it is also known) just to the north of Blanes is one of the nicest intimate beaches on the whole Costa Brava. With its aquamarine waters and fine sand, the beach is a very popular destination during the summer months.

Cala Sant Francesc, Blanes, Costa Brava — The beautiful beach of Cala Sant Francesc, Blanes

Cala Sant Francesc and the beaches of Blanes

Many of the main beaches closer to the camping and budget hotel district in central Blanes do tend to get rather crowded during the summer months. Because Cala Bona is located a bit further out from town and away from the budget district it perhaps has a reputation as a slightly more refined area.

This stretch of the Costa Brava coastline also has some rock pools which are great for children to explore and search for marine life. There is also a great restaurant, Cala Bona, which is right on the beach. It does get quite full during summer and tables should be booked in advance.

Luxury villa, Cala Sant Francesc, Blanes, Costa Brava — Blanes, on the Costa Brava

Charming Villas Catalonia lists a great number of luxury villas along the Costa Brava and province of Girona. Browse our selection of luxury Costa Brava villas and farmhouses.

More information about the region can be found at the Visit Blanes website.

Platja Fonda, Begur

Posted on 23 April 2013 by Richard Calvin

The beaches of Begur

The coastal area around Begur has some of the nicest beaches on the whole Costa Brava. Platja Fonda Begur is without doubt one of the nicest and definitely one of our favorites. This 160m long wild and hidden spot is accessed by a long flight of steps.

The Begur coastline stretching from Platja de Raco in the north to AiguaBlava in the south offers the beach lover some great choices of beach. Each beach in the area of Begur has its own distinct character. Platja Fonda is what i would describe as a “virgin beach” with no bars, shops or nearby mass tourism. With just one path leading down to the beach it is totally untouched.

Not as big as Sa Riera and lacking restaurants, shops and bars this is perhaps a somewhat less crowded option suitable for serious beach lovers. With coarse dark sand/small pebbles the beach is perfect for those wanting to avoid the crowds of bigger beaches.

Platja Fonda, Begur, Costa Brava — Platja Fonda beach, Costa Brava

The clear turquoise waters and the lack of mass tourism make this a great choice of beach for those looking to simply enjoy swimming and sunbathing. Tip – Go early in the morning or later in the evening and enjoy the beach to yourselves.

Platja Fonda villas

Overlooking the beach we have the magnificent nine bedroom luxury villa Platja Fonda which is just a stone’s throw walk from the beach. This is a ultra-modern villa with full air conditioning and en-suite bedrooms. We also have a wide selection of alternative luxury villas close to Platja Fonda. Check out our portfolio of luxury Begur villas

For more information about Platja Fonda and the other beaches of Begur here is a link to the official tourism board of Begur