The Ultimate Guide to Begur Spain Costa Brava

Thinking of visiting the picturesque seaside town of Begur Spain’s stunning Costa Brava coastline? As I planned my trip, I compiled the ultimate travel guide to help others discover the very best of this Catalonia gem. Nestled amid pine-forested hills, Begur charms with its cobbled lanes, colorful colonial architecture, and spectacular coves with crystal-clear waters.

Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea just an hour’s drive north of Barcelona, this Costa Brava pearl mixes coastal magic with old-world romance. Beyond its postcard-perfect beaches and medieval castle, Begur hides a fascinating cultural link to Cuba. Read on to uncover all that awaits in this coastal retreat.

The Ultimate Guide to Begur Spain Costa Brava

is Costa brava worth visiting?

Yes, Costa Brava is absolutely worth visiting! As one of Spain’s most beautiful coastal destinations, this picturesque stretch of Catalonia entices with its stunning landscapes, charming medieval towns, high-end resorts, and spectacular secluded beaches and coves.

Here are some of the key reasons it’s an ideal vacation spot:

Natural Beauty Costa Brava translates as “Wild Coast” – an apt description of the rugged shoreline dotted with quiet fishing villages. Pine-forested cliffs plunge dramatically into achingly blue waters, creating secluded rocky lagoons and sandy beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Cultural Riches Beyond beaches in Begur Spain

awaits a treasure trove of cultural interest like the 1,000-year-old town of Pals with meandering stone lanes and the towering 11th century Benedictine monastery towering over the bay of Sant Feliu de Guíxols. Salvador Dalí’s legacy permeates the region through his museum-home in Pubol and the museum in Figueres, easily explored on a day trip.

Culinary Delights Begur Spain

As a top gastronomic region, Costa Brava delights foodies with bountiful seafood, fabulous wine, and superb dining experiences including 21 Michelin stars spread across towns like Girona and Begur. Don’t miss fresh-off-the-boat fish, locally produced olive oils, and traditional Catalan fare.

Resort Luxury Begur Spain

Large resort towns like Lloret de Mar showcase Costa Brava’s alluring blend of pampered indulgence and old world charm through sumptuous hotels and spas, buzzing waterfront boardwalks lined with bars and restaurants, designer shops, and enduring landmarks like Fenals Castle dating from the 11th-century.

So whether you seek remote secluded coves, family fun, gourmet dining or resort luxury, Costa Brava caters to travelers of all types with its diversity of options and destinations – undoubtedly making it a Spanish costal trip worthy of any bucket list!

what is costa brava like?

Costa Brava offers the quintessential Spanish coastal experience, blending scenic natural beauty, old world charm, and vibrant resort towns. Here’s a closer look at what makes this stretch of Catalonian coastline so special:

Landscapes Rugged cliffs and dense pine forests dominate the landscape, plunging dramatically into the sea to form secluded rocky coves and golden sandy beaches. Quaint whitewashed fishing villages hug the shoreline, while medieval stone towns crown inland hilltops with ancient castles and monasteries.

Vibe The coastal villages exude tranquility and local flavor with their narrow lanes and family-run seafood restaurants. Larger resorts like Lloret de Mar vibrate with crowded beaches, pulsating nightlife and waterfront promenades lined with eateries and shops – catering to both relaxation and liveliness.

Cuisine Fabulous fresh seafood takes center stage, with platters of oysters, grilled sardines, Spider Crab rice and fideuà pasta with aioli sauce. Inland towns specialize in meat dishes and rioja wine, accompanied by local olive oils and cheeses. Sweet crema Catalana custard provides the perfect finale.

Beyond the Beach Hikers relish the 500-mile Costa Brava Way marked trail meandering along bluff-tops with sublime sea views. Cyclists take on the challenging climbs of the rocky interior. Water sports lovers dive beneath the Med’s crystalline surface, kayak into secret coves, or sail out to the Medes Islands protected reserve just off the coast of Begur.

So in summary, Costa Brava entices with its intoxicating blend of scenic coastline, low-key fishing hamlets, lively resorts, medieval heritage, and abundance of food, wine and outdoor adventures both in water and on land – making for an unforgettable Spanish holiday!

How To Get To Costa Brava Begur Overview

• Fly into Girona Costa Brava Airport (GRO) or Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN) – both are about a 90 minute drive to Begur
• Rental cars give the most flexibility to explore. Reserve in advance for the best rates. Consider an SUV for the hilly terrain.
• You can also take a bus from Barcelona or Girona which takes around 2 hours. Check routes with ALSA or SARFA buses.
• Alternatively, take a train to Flaça and then a local bus to Begur, but this option takes more time.

Going from Barcelone to Begur by Rental Car

Rental cars give the most flexibility to explore. Reserve in advance for the best rates. Consider an SUV for the hilly terrain

Driving yourself is the easiest way to get from Barcelona to Begur. The route takes about 1.5 hours:

• Pick up your rental car in Barcelona city or at the airport
• Take the C32 highway heading north out of the city towards Girona
• Just past Girona, exit onto Highway A2 signposted to Palafrugell/Palamós
• Take exit 9 from A2 for Palafrugell
• From Palafrugell follow signs for the C31 heading to Begur
• The C31 winds scenically along the coast before reaching Begur after about 10km

Tip: Automatic transmission cars in Mallorca book up quickly. Make sure you reserve your rental car way in advance. I like Discover Cars as they have flexible cancelation policies should your itinerary change and they offer the best prices and a large selection to choose from.

How to go from Barcelona to Costa Brava other options

• You can also take a bus from Barcelona or Girona which takes around 2 hours. Check routes with ALSA or SARFA buses.
• Alternatively, take a train to Flaça and then a local bus to Begur, but this option takes more time.

Barcelona costa brava By Public Transportation

You can also reach Begur by public transportation, just be aware the trip will take around 2.5 hours with bus/train connections:

• From Barcelona take the RENFE train towards Girona/Portbou
• Get off at Flaçà station (just under 2 hours)
• Exit the station and find the SARFA bus #541 Begur-Palafrugell stop
• Take bus #541 heading towards Palafrugell and get off at Begur (a 25 minute ride)
• From the bus stop it’s a few minute walk into central Begur

Where To Stay in Begur Spain: Where to stay costa brava 

• Charming historic hotels in Begur old town
• Seafront hotels with spectacular views
• Quiet apartments and villas set amid nature

Top Begur hotel

Here are my top picks for the 3 best Begur hotels in popular categories:

Best Overall Hotel: Cluc Hotel

Located in a 19th century mansion overlooking the coastline, Cluc Hotel combines history and charm with modern amenities. Marble bathrooms, espresso makers and rain showers outfit the rooms, while beautifully manicured gardens, an outdoor pool and hot tub tempt outside. An elegant restaurant dishes up gourmet local fare to match the splendid sea views.

Hostal Sa Tuna is a charming family-run hotel and restaurant nestled right on the breathtaking Sa Tuna cove, one of Begur’s top beaches. With a coveted seaside location overlooking crystalline turquoise waters, this peaceful Costa Brava accommodation allows waking up to glorious ocean vistas and the sound of lapping waves.

Best luxury hotel in Begur: Hotel Sa Tuna

Here’s what makes Hotel Sa Tuna a top Begur hotel pick:

• Unbeatable beachfront setting on golden sand cove with dramatic rocky backdrop
• Recently updated rooms featuring bright white bedding, maritime themed art, mini-fridges and private terraces
• Floor-to-ceiling windows flooding rooms with natural light and sea views
• Tranquil atmosphere – an escape from bigger, more crowded resorts
• Highly rated restaurant specializing in paellas, fresh fish and seafood
• Outdoor pool and sun loungers perfect for full days relaxing by the sea
• Helpful, hospitable service from the owners and staff

The highlight is undoubtedly direct access to idyllic Sa Tuna cove with sunbathing rocks surrounding bright blue waters that seem to glow, especially at sunset. Given its seclusion down small winding roads, having a rental car provides the easiest access. Whether stopping in for lunch, spending a week in summer or seeking an off-season hideaway, Hostal Sa Tuna lets visitors immerse themselves in the rhythms of this Costa Brava fishing village, delivering an authentic taste of the Mediterranean

Best Adults-Only Begur Spain hotels: La Bionda Boutique Hotel

Adults seeking a romantic escape flock to this small seafront hotel offering stylish designer rooms with whirlpool tubs, a cliffside pool and sundeck, and breathtaking panoramas of the Costa Brava. The first-class treatment extends to creative Mediterranean cuisine in the seaside restaurant.

Best Seafront Hotel in begur spain – Hotel Aigua Blava Begur spain

Set right on Platja d’Aiguablava with spectacular sea views, this 4-star hotel charms families with its lush gardens, large swimming pool, private access to the beach, and spacious modern rooms, some featuring balconies overlooking the bay. The family-run vibe continues at the traditional restaurant serving local fare.

Top Things To Do in Begur Spain: Begur things to do 

Begur has a plethora of things to do. From the charming coastal towns to the laid back spanish culture, there are the best things to do in begur

• Relax on postcard-worthy beaches and secluded coves like Sa Tuna with its emerald bay and dramatic Platja Fonda with cliffs plunging into azure waters
• Wander picturesque whitewashed fishing villages like Pals, admiring the historic architecture and stopping for lunch along the way
• Indulge in the abundance of fresh seafood, locally grown produce, acclaimed restaurants and foodie experiences from Michelin stars to market tours
• Check out  the magnificent Indiano colonial houses built by locals who prospered in Cuba, admiring the ostentatious architecture
• Hike along the rugged Camí de Ronda coastal trail surrounded by pine trees and the azure Mediterranean Sea, stopping to swim at quiet coves
• Take a guided snorkeling or scuba trip to the protected Medes Islands marine reserve, discovering sealife beneath the surface
• Check out Begur’s Wednesday market held along the main road Avenguda Onze de Setembre, picking up local cheeses, sausages, honey and artwork
• Experience the three-day Fira d’Indians Festival in September celebrating Begur’s Cuban ties with reenactments, music and street parties

Beaches and Coves in Costa Brava Begur Spain: Top  Begur spain beaches

Dotting Begur’s coastline are nine glorious coves and beaches, each with its own distinct beauty. Here are some highlights and insider tips:

• Platja del Racó – This wide golden sandy beach lies on the border with Pals, overlooking the Medes Islands, making it a popular spot for sailing
• Cala d’Aiguafreda – A secluded rocky cove with pine trees reaching down to emerald waters that remains relatively tranquil due to tricky access down steps
• Sa Tuna – The postcard-perfect shaded bay holds turquoise waters primed for swimming, reached via a 20-minute walk along a coastal nature trail from Begur
• Platja Fonda – Beneath towering sea cliffs lies this dramatic swath of golden sand and dazzling teal waters – come early to claim one of the few sun loungers
• Fornells Coves – Three wild coves full of character with small gravel beaches, connected by a clifftop walkway offering superb snorkeling with schools of fish
• Platja d’Aiguablava – Backed by a lush pine forest, this Blue Flag awarded beach has fine white sand and shallow crystalline waters perfect for families

See Colonial Architecture in Begur Spain things to do

Many who prospered in Cuba returned to build opulent homes in Begur flaunting their wealth. Walking the central streets you can admire these Indiano mansions marked by columns, towers, elaborately forged iron gates and balconies. Examples include:

• Casa Bonaventura with stone pillars and symmetrical design
• Can Pere Roger featuring a tiered tower and twin doors bearing initials
• Casa Sora boasting a covered front patio adorned with plants and frescoed walls
• Casino Cultural, the monumental 1870 social club merging two existing casino establishments

See the Spectacular Begur Castle and Esclanya Village

Perched dramatically on a hillcrest, Begur Castle dates originally to the 11th century, dominating views over the bay. Mostly ruined, you can still climb the fortress and marvel at its strategic seaside placement. Learn more at the small on-site museum.

Just 2km inland lies the pleasant village of Esclanya with its medieval stone houses clustered around the Romanesque Sant Esteve Church dating to 1280. Stroll quiet lanes amidst rolling hills blanketed in olive and almond groves.

Begur Restaurants and Cuisine 

Fresh seafood takes center stage in Begur alongside quality meat dishes and Catalan specialities like butifarra sausage. Top tables run from Michelin-rated gastropubs to beachfront restaurants dishing up just-caught fish. Recommendations include:

• El Castell de Aiguablava – Elegant clifftop dining on Mediterranean cuisine with sublime sunset views
• Sa Punta Taverna – Creative gourmet tasting menus focused on local seafood and seasonal ingredients
• Aiguaclara Restaurant – Charming historic hotel restaurant crafting market-driven Catalan cuisine
• Fornells Beach Club – Laidback restaurant on Fornells Cove beach serving paellas, salads and sangria
• Es Portal Restaurant – Waterfront tables on Sa Riera beach to feast on rice dishes and fresh grilled fish

Shopping in Begur Spain

Although a small town, Begur offers some delightful local shopping opportunities to pick up regional specialities and artisan wares. Here are top spots to shop in Begur:

The Weekly Market Every Wednesday morning, Avenguda Onze de Setembre fills with market stalls selling fresh produce, cheeses, cured meats, baked goods and local handicrafts. Stock up on olive oils, honey, Begur’s famous almond biscuits and more.

La Cava d’En Rosset This charming shop carries a huge selection of Spanish wines, cavas and craft beers from small producers across Catalonia and beyond. The friendly owner gives first-rate recommendations.

Rosa Mari Art Gallery Regional artists display their works at this tiny gallery just off the main square. Find paintings, sculptures, ceramics and jewelry by contemporary creators from Baix Empordà.

El Celler de Can Sora The town’s top spot for gourmet food gifts. Select from the finest olive oils, vintage wines, cheeses, Iberico hams and homemade jams to take home a taste of Begur.

Sa Botiga de Pals Just 4km from Begur, this beloved shop sells unique handmade embroidery, lace, tablecloths and linens crafted locally by Spanish artisans.

Begur also holds wonderful weekly markets in nearby towns like Palafrugell (Sundays) and Palamós (Tuesdays) to uncover more local finds. So set aside some time while visiting to uncover hidden gems and support Costa Brava’s talented artisans!