The Most Romantic Places by Car on the Costa Brava: Discover Love’s Paradise
With its breathtaking seaside villages, charming medieval towns, and stunning mountainous scenery, Spain’s Costa Brava is a dream destination for romance. While public transportation exists, having your own wheels makes exploring its most romantic spots easy, intimate, and full of freedom.
From quaint fishing ports to hilltop castles and vineyards, driving the Costa Brava together reveals one picturesque landscape and charming destination after another. Here are some of the region’s top places to discover by car for an unforgettable romantic getaway.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Cadaqués
- Cap de Creus
- Sant Feliu de Guíxols
- Pals & Begur
- Castell de Púbol
- Calella de Palafrugell
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Introduction
The Costa Brava in northeastern Catalonia enchants visitors with its rugged natural beauty and old-world coastal villages. Meaning “wild coast” in Catalan, it lives up to its name with towering cliffs, secluded coves, and crystalline waters dotted with fishing boats.
Inland, wooded hills give way to rolling vineyards and farmland with medieval stone villages sprinkled throughout. With your own car, you have the freedom to leisurely follow country roads between charming towns, secluded beaches, top-notch restaurants, and historic castles.
From high cliffs to hidden beaches, quaint hotels to country drives under the Spanish sun, the Costa Brava abounds with diverse places for an idyllic romantic getaway by car.
- Cadaqués
The jewel of the Costa Brava, Cadaqués enchants with its whitewashed buildings, twisting cobblestone streets, and perfect crescent bay. Take a romantic stroll along the waterfront promenade before enjoying fresh seafood with water views at a local restaurant.
Later, walk up to the hilltop church, Sa Consolació, for panoramic views over terracotta rooftops to the sea. Or explore Salvador Dalí’s home just outside town to immerse yourselves in surrealist art together.
- Cap de Creus
The steep cliffs and remote bays of Cap de Creus Natural Park offer wildly romantic scenery. Drive along headlands overlooking the glittering sea and jagged rocks to secluded beaches like Cala Figuera only accessible on foot.
Hike down together hand-in-hand to enjoy the peaceful setting before picnicking oceanside. You might feel like the only two people around! Don’t miss the sunset over the cliffs.
- Sant Feliu de Guíxols
A relaxed seaside town, Sant Feliu de Guíxols retains its historic and maritime charm while offering great restaurants and nightlife. Stroll the striking Modernista-style promenade or check out the 10th century Benedictine monastery.
Take a romantic walk atop the sea cliffs dotted with lookout points. At day’s end, savor local Catalan cuisine on an outdoor patio before mingling with lively locals at the bars and clubs.
- Pals & Begur
This pair of medieval hill towns allows you to time-travel together back to the Middle Ages. Park and lose yourselves along the atmospheric cobblestone lanes and hidden squares of walled Pals.
Continue on to Begur, one of the prettiest Costa Brava towns. Explore the medieval castle ruins before indulging in a delicious Catalan meal with a view you’ll never forget.
- Castell de Púbol
Soak up some history together at Salvador Dalí’s 14th century castle. Nestled in the countryside 20 minutes inland, this unique castle makes for an outing full of surrealist flair.
Wander through the rooms hand-in-hand imagining Dalí’s eccentric life here with his wife Gala before relaxing in the sculpture garden and soaking up the romantic views.
- Calella de Palafrugell
No Costa Brava road trip is complete without enjoying a seaside lunch in this charming fishing village. Savor fresh caught fish on a restaurant patio overlooking the crescent-shaped bay and fishing boats swaying in the harbor.
Afterwards, walk off your meal strolling the picturesque seaside promenade and pebbly beach abounding with atmosphere.
Conclusion
With your own set of wheels, the freedom to explore the Costa Brava’s myriad romantic spots ensures an unforgettable trip tailored exactly as you desire. Around every bend awaits dramatic vistas, tranquil villages, and delicious local culture to experience together.
Let the road lead where your hearts take you to discover your own intimate adventures. From misty seaside mornings to hilltop sunsets and everything in between, driving the Costa Brava promises paradise for couples and memories that will last a lifetime.
FAQs
When’s the best time to visit the Costa Brava?
Spring and fall have ideal weather without summer crowds. But the region has a mild climate year-round.
What’s the ideal length for a Costa Brava road trip?
7-10 days allows ample time to see highlights without being rushed. You can also focus on a smaller region.
Where are the best places to stay?
Charming boutique hotels abound in coastal towns. Staying in the countryside offers relaxed tranquility.
What else should we pack or know?
Bring sun protection. A small cooler is great for packing snacks/drinks for spontaneous picnics. Have coins for parking meters!
Are the towns and attractions very crowded?
In peak summer, yes. But in shoulder season they remain idyllic without hoards of people. Travel off-season for the most relaxed experience.