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Looking for inspiration and tips for Empordà? A beautiful region in Catalonia full of vast nature, with a rich history and endless possibilities for experiences and adventures. During a vacation or tour of the Empordà region, there are more than enough trips you can take to fill your days well. From visiting charming medieval villages to hiking along the rugged coastline. The Empordà region in Catalonia is a true gem to discover. In this article, we share 5 of the most beautiful places to visit in Empordà. This is where you want to go!
In brief: the Empordà region in Catalonia
Empordà is a region in northeastern Catalonia, located between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean Sea. This historic region is located in the province of Girona. A popular province among travelers, especially the Dutch. This is not surprising, because with the beautiful landscapes and fun activities you can do here, you naturally attract many adventurous travelers. Empordà is a destination for travelers who love a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. And let the following places be the right place for a nice walk, fun bike ride, delicious wine tasting and, of course, for special discoveries.
Stroll through the streets of Cadaqués
Cadaqués is one of the most picturesque coastal towns of Empordà. Located on the Costa Brava, the town is surrounded by beautiful mountains. If there is one thing Cadaqués is known for, it is its whitewashed houses and narrow cobbled streets. But what should also not be forgotten is that Cadaqués is a popular destination for artists because of its inspiring landscape. Salvador Dalí, for example, spent much of his time in beautiful Cadaqués. His former home, now Casa-Museu Salvador Dalí, is a museum you can visit.
On a lovely sunny day, Cadaqués is a great place to hang out. It is a great place for swimming, snorkeling and diving because of the clear sea water. Along the promenade you will find many restaurants and bars where you can taste fresh seafood and traditional Catalan dishes. A nice bar we can recommend is SET Cadaqués.
Visit the monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes
One of the most impressive historical sites in Empordà is the monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes. The monastery was built in the 11th century and is in a beautiful location, high on a hill in the Cap de Creus Natural Park overlooking the sea and mountains. The monastery has Romanesque architecture, a beautiful courtyard with a cloister and then a beautiful church. Be sure to bring your camera, as the monastery is a great place to take photos because of its imposing architecture, light and sweeping views.
You can visit the monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes for €6 per person, but good to remember is that entrance is free on Tuesdays. Would you like to learn more about the history of the monastery? Then a guided tour is definitely recommended.
Take a coastal walk from Calella de Palafrugell to Llafranc
Like Cadaqués, the coastal town of Calella de Palafrugell is a picturesque town on the Costa Brava. You'll find some beautiful beaches and coves here. But what Calella de Palafrugell is best known for is the insane coastal walk you can take here up to Llafranc. This is a walk of about 2 kilometers that takes you past beaches, villages and sometimes the rugged coastline of the Costa Brava. One of the best to-do tips in Empordà!
Admire the medieval village of Pals
Pals is one of the best preserved medieval villages in Empordà, and on the Costa Brava. The village is located on a hill and from its highest point offers a beautiful view of the surroundings. In the old town you can spot houses that are 800 (!) years old. Add to that the cobblestone streets, the old facades and the Romanesque tower and you will feel like you are in another era here. Take a stroll through the picturesque streets and admire all the beauty that Pals has to offer.
Take a pottery workshop in La Bisbal
Between the city of Girona and the coastal towns of the Costa Brava you will find L'Empordanet. An area that consists of 5 small towns and villages, known mainly for its large number of artisans. La Bisbal, one of the five towns of L'Empordanet, is best known for its potteries. The town has a long history of making ceramics, so there are several potteries in La Bisbal that you can visit. The best way to learn more about this craft is to participate in a workshop. This way you will learn all the tricks of the trade. A place that we can definitely recommend is pottery Ruldua Ceramica!
Tips for fine accommodations in Empordà
During a vacation or tour of Empordà, there are plenty of beautiful accommodations where you can stay. From chic hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, but also special locations such as a hotel located in a traditional Catalan farmhouse from the 18th century. These are our two favorite accommodations in Empordà:
Stay at Hotel Restaurant Galena Mas Comangau in Begur
Hotel Restaurant Galena Mas Comangau is the accommodation where you will stay in a traditional Catalan farmhouse. This place breathes history. The hotel is centrally located in the Empordà region making it ideal to combine with discovering and exploring surrounding villages, such as the medieval village of Pals. What makes a stay here so nice is the friendliness and hospitality of the staff. And on top of that, you can enjoy high-level Catalan dishes in the hotel's restaurant.
Staying at Palau Macelli in Castelló d'Empúries
One of the most talked-about hotels to stay at in Empordà is the insane Palau Macellin in the village of Castelló d'Empúries. The hotel is housed in a historic building, once a former meat market, which has been transformed into a beautiful boutique hotel. Each room is uniquely decorated and offers an oasis of peace and comfort, just like the rest of the stylishly decorated hotel. Up on the roof you will find a beautiful pool where, on sunny days, you can end the day with a splash in the water.
Take a road trip through Catalonia
Catalonia is a beautiful region in Spain and a destination that guarantees fun city trips, adventurous getaways and relaxing beach days. Therefore, one of the best ways to discover this region is by taking a road trip. The ideal route is mapped out in the so-called Grand Tour of Catalonia which takes you past the main attractions and most beautiful places of the region! Would you like to see some of the highlights? Take a look at the round trip 'Across Catalonia' from Footprint Travel. We put this trip together with Footprint Travel based on our road trip. All the gems appear in this trip. Do you want to do it a little differently? Then tweak your trip a little so it suits you.
Travander
At Travander, we’re all about exploring hidden gems, unique destinations, and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Our motto, “Let’s Travel and Wander,” reflects our passion for discovering both local treasures and faraway adventures. As experienced travel bloggers and travel consultants, we share insider tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you make the most of every trip. From city breaks and weekend getaways to tailor-made travel itineraries, we guide you to the most beautiful and inspiring places. Explore the world with Travander and let us spark your next unforgettable adventure!
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