Discover the Best of the Costa Brava

The Costa Brava is synonymous with idyllic days under blue skies and enchanting evenings under the stars. One of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the whole of Europe, this glorious summer playground lies just two short hours by plane from the UK.

Recent years have seen the Costa Brava evolve into a landscape of striking and captivating contrasts. From the tastefully manicured to the ultra-developed to the rugged and wild, it's a cross section snapshot of everything you could wish for.

If you're out for a home from home - essentially a British resort with better weather - you won't have to look far. For something glamorous and sophisticated, the Costa Brava certainly doesn't disappoint.

A Foodie Paradise

Contrary to popular belief, this stretch of Spanish coastline isn't all about full English breakfasts and chips with everything. English menus will always be a fixture in expat-heavy resorts, but this is also the perfect place the sample Catalan food at its absolute best.

Catalonia is home to the largest concentration of Michelin Star restaurants in the whole of Spain. The local wines are simply superb, the seafood is as good as it gets and each village brings its own unique culinary twists to the table. Don't go home without sampling your fill of Botifarra amb Mongetes, Calcots, Fricando de Vedella amb Bolets, Arras negre and Pa amb Tomaquet.

When to Go to the Costa Brava
The Costa Brava enjoys a comparatively mild and pleasant climate throughout the year. The height of the summer brings searing heat throughout much of the day, while the depths of winter may be a little too chilly for sunbathing and snorkelling.

Ask those in the know and they will tell you the same - late spring and early autumn are the best times to visit the Costa Brava. Along with near guaranteed beautiful weather, you'll also be looking at less crowded beaches, quieter resorts and significantly lower prices.

If possible, it's worth avoiding major public holidays and school holidays alike. Prices are needlessly hiked simply to capitalise on demand, plus much of the region becomes crowded and chaotic in the extreme.

Where to Stay on the Costa Brava
You'll find your tastes catered to in any number of glorious towns and villages up and down the coast. Nevertheless, the following three destinations have consistently scored top marks among visitors and experts alike:

Tamariu
First up, Tamariu is home to one of the Costa Brava's most beautiful beaches. Originally a small fishing village, Tamariu has grown to become a popular destination among discerning travellers, looking for something a little more tranquil and secluded. The idyllic pedestrian promenade is flanked by gorgeous pine forests, with exceptional restaurants, eateries and bars scattered around the village.

Tamariu is romantic in the extreme, having held on to its traditional charms and unique cultural heritage. A perfect place for families and romantic escapes. There are plenty of villas to rent in Tamariu that are perfect for your stay.

Calella De Palafrugell
Nearby, Calella de Palafrugell is also a contender for the Brava's most beautiful beach, along with some of the best fish restaurants in this part of Spain. If you're planning to visit and stay in Calella de Palafrugell in July, consider stopping by the famous Cap Roig Garden Festival. Or if music isn't your thing, dive into the extraordinary watersports opportunities right on your doorstep.

Walking, cycling, hiking and general exploration are the order of the day in and around Calella de Palafrugell. Alternatively, you could simply spend your days basking in the sunshine and your evenings indulging in the impeccable local cuisine.

Llafranc
Last but not least, Llafranc. This is a delightfully cosmopolitan resort that attracts an upmarket clientele from across Europe. Traditional fishing boats nestle right next to glamorous super yachts, overlooked by millionaire's apartments and sprawling Llafranc villas for rental.

Amenities and dining opportunities are truly first-rate, providing visitors with the opportunity to see how the other half truly lives!