Discover Costa Brava & the Girona Pyrenees

When you think of the Costa Brava, you probably picture a typical beach break—but there's so much more to this Catalan gem. Of course, there are plenty of beautiful beaches, and gorgeous sandy coastlines. But travel inland a little, and you'll also discover Medieval towns, quaint fishing villages, natural parks, volcanoes, sparkling lakes, and the mountain landscapes of the Girona Pyrenees. 

With eight UK airports now operating direct flights to Girona, it's never been easier to explore this wonderfully diverse region.

Soar above volcanoes or kayak in hidden coves

With its wealth of different landscapes, Costa Brava and the Girona Pyrenees are a haven for nature-lovers. The region is home to multiple natural parks, the majority of which are part of the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism initiative. Garrotxa Natural Park is a real highlight, as it contains about forty volcanoes (don't worry, they're inactive). Go hiking along the designated trails, or for a really breathtaking experience, you could even book a hot air balloon ride and take it all in from the skies. 

If you'd rather stick to the coast, there are plenty of beautiful beaches and hidden coves to discover. Go kayaking through crystal-clear waters of the Castell, or top up your tan on the sandy Sa Boadella beach in Lloret de Mar. For something really unique, book a snorkelling experience in the marine reserve of the Medes Islands. This small, protected group of islands is one of the most beautiful marine reserves in the western Mediterranean, and have been protected since 1983. After forty years of protection, marine life is thriving—swim with hundreds of fish, and keep an eye out for dusky groupers and the green Posidonia meadows.

Step back in time: museums, monasteries, and Medieval towns 

Culture vultures and history buffs alike will find plenty to sink their teeth into, too. From Gothic churches to archaeological ruins, there are so many treasures to discover. In fact, the Costa Brava and Girona Pyrenees are home to more than 550 heritage sites. 

Start in the prehistoric period, with the megalithic monuments of Albera, then onto the Graeco-Roman ruins of Empúries. Journey through the Middle Ages in the monasteries of Sant Pere de Rodes and Santa Maria de Ripoll, with their impressive displays of Romanesque art. Or, simply wander through the Medieval villages of Peralada, Pals, Santa Pau, and Besalu, to really feel like you've stepped back in time. 

As well as art and history museums, there are some more unique offerings, too. If you fancy something a bit different, there's the Grand Museum of Magic in Santa Cristina d’Aro; the Toy Museum of Catalonia in Figueres; Espai Cràter in Olot (where you can learn about volcanoes); and the Museum of Cinema in Girona.

One of the region's biggest cultural claims is of course Salvador Dali, who was born in the town of Figueres. Today, Figueres is home to one of three points that make up the Dali Triangle—attractions dedicated to showcasing the life and work of this incredible surrealist painter. These comprise the Dali Theatre-Museum in Figueres, home to the most extensive collection of his works, including his last; Salvador Dali House in Portlligat, where he painted some of his most iconic pieces; and Gala Dali Castle in Pubol, now a mausoleum to his late wife and muse. 

May is a wonderful time to visit the Costa Brava and Girona Pyrenees. One of the best reasons is Girona's annual flower show, which is held in the neighbourhood of Barri Vell. For nine days, the area's streets, courtyards, and monuments are covered in colourful floral arrangements. There are over 100 displays, and best of all, it's completely free. This kicks off a whole season of festivals in Girona over the summer months—from music to dance, and even magic. 

From Michelin stars to vineyards

No trip to the Costa Brava and Girona Pyrenees is complete without sampling some of the delicious local cuisine. Rooted in tradition, it's a real fusion of sea and mountain fare, with a bounty of local produce throughout each season. Wherever you go, you can expect a slice of bread and tomato, accompanied with local cheeses and cold cuts. 

Being on the coast, seafood is of course a real highlight, with specialities in lots of different regions. Red prawns from Palamos, Roses, and Blanes; crayfish from Llanca; anchovies from L'Escala; and lobster from the Creus cape are all a must-try.

Mountain dishes from the Pyrenees include artisanal sausage, colt or veal, Santa Pau beans, and the classic Trinxat de Cerdanya mash. Finish off with some sweet treats, like xuixo. These pastries are deep fried, and filled with crema catalana. 

Between January and March, foodies can head to Palafrugell, home to the annual Garoinada festival, where their legendary sea urchins are celebrated. Many restaurants in the area have a special menu during this season, which changes every year, but tends to focus around the star ingredient of the sea urchin. 

If you fancy something a bit special, you can head to one of the region's exciting Michelin-starred restaurants. Chefs such as Ferran Adria and the Roca brothers have transformed local specialities, giving them new, innovative twists, while staying true to tradition. Try it for yourself in El Celler de Can Roca in Girona, or Les Cols in La Garrotxa. There are plenty of other Michelin-starred restaurants in the region, too—you can find a full list here. 

Of course, a delicious meal needs the perfect pairing. More than thirty wineries form part of the DO Emporda Wine Route, which offers an extensive range of gourmet food and wine tourism experiences. Go wine tasting on a boat, in a bookshop, or even on horseback. Visit a barrel tap museum in Capmany, or just stick to a traditional wine and cheese pairing as you stroll through gorgeous vineyards and Mediterranean olive groves. 

Feeling inspired? Find out more here.