Spain: The Rugged Coast - Forget The Typecasting And Savour The Spectacular Vision Of The Costa Brav

In 1905 Ferran Agullo, a journalist and writer, invented the term 'Costa Brava' to describe the coastline between the Mediterranean and the Pyrenees in the province of Girona.
The Costa Brava is where it all began as far as tourism goes: from the 1950s, tourists started to flock to this coastline, the first of them arriving in ex-war planes.
To this day, tourism is still the main industry of the Costa Brava region.
Costa Brava means 'Rugged Coast'. Its 214km of coastline extends from Blanes in the south, to French-bordered Portbou in the north. It is Catalonia's most northern stretch of coastline.
The Costa Brava's distinctive rugged coastline is punctuated with charming coves, amazing beaches - both secluded and well-serviced for sunbathers and water sports lovers, striking cliff-spurs carpeted in lush pines, intriguing caves with shimmering metallic colours layered through the inner walls, and amazing underwater rock formations which are a haven for divers. Plus just off the coast you'll find thriving forests filled with wonderful plants and wildlife.
Moderate rainfall, hours and hours of sunshine and a typical Mediterranean climate are all characteristics of the Costa Brava, which combined with its fervent history, amazing monuments dotted all along the coastline, and its renowned resorts, make this coastline one of Spain's most popular.
Perhaps the Costa Brava has seen some misrepresentation as a typical package tour destination. But this is unfair, and this reputation can only really be attributed to a few of the many resorts on this coast.
The truth is that this amazingly diverse region offers an opulent cultural heritage, fortified towns, ancient villages, a stunning Mediterranean coastline and remarkable natural beauty.
In the 1900s, Picasso and Marc Chagall were drawn to this natural beauty, and when Salvador Dalí returned to his childhood home here, a trail of artisans followed.
Before the Civil War, the Costa Brava had begun to compete with the Côte d'Azur in France as a playground for the rich and famous. When the Franco-powered Ministry of Tourism began promoting it as a holiday destination in the 1950s, with little regard for the environment, the stars returned, but as placid fishing villages were consumed by high-rise hotels, they turned their backs on the region and moved on.
However, the region's charm had always survived no matter what the tourist boom was doing to destroy it and the Spanish continued to visit for its stunning natural beauty.
Today, the towns of the Costa Brava are becoming more and more reluctant to trade their traditional values for mass tourism. The region is strengthening these values to suit the more discerning traveller, which it welcomes with open arms, and has begun to turn the tide on its unfair branding as the epitome of mass tourism.
Here is some brief information about some of the most notable towns on the Costa Brava coastline, and some of those just inland from the coast.
Portbou A prime destination for those who want a break away from the more commercialised resorts. The town is the furthest north on the Costa Brava. Promenade-side restaurants and bars attract a large number of day-visitors. The border to France is close. Friday is market day.
Colera A small coastal village with a winter-population of only around 300. Even during the summer it doesn't get crowded here. The perfect location for some peace and to indulge in real traditional values.
Llanca This town is 15km from the French-Spanish border, with a fishing port and a yacht harbour. The older part of the village has a number of historical buildings surrounding the plaza major.
Port de la Selva Where the Cap de Creus forms a large bay, here you find Port de la Selva. It is a family resort, and a good base for Hikers admire the Cap de Creus. This is one of two options for access to Sant Pere de Rodes, one of the most important sites of the Catalan Romanesque. There is also a diving school here.
Cap de Creus nature reserve in 1998, this beautiful area is the only reserve in Spain, which includes both land and sea, including the largest uninhabited area in the Spanish Mediterranean coast. Felsübersähten the coast is barren and broken by small coves. The flora andfauna found here is quite unique and includes a variety of very rare species of sea-birds which are in danger of extinction.
Cadaques This town is approached by a small winding road, meandering through the mountains from Roses. Cadaques is extremely picturesque: cobalt waters, sandy beaches dotted with fishing boats, aged whitewashed houses, warren-like streets, and a 16th century hilltop parish. It's not a family resort - more an up-market haven for those with artistic and creative blood flowing through their veins.
Roses This town has a 16th Century fortress which although in ruins is still of great architectural interest. Also here are the remains of the Greek settlement of Rhode. Its fishing port is one of the leaders on this coast and offers a lively nightlife at its marina.
Empuriabrava Laying just south of Roses the name sounds ancient, but it was actually purpose-built for holidaymakers. It Known as the largest Marina in the world. Here there are as many canals as there are in Venice, and boat owners have their own moorings in front of their houses. Here you can indulge in just about any water sport you fancy. This town also has its own aerodrome that is equipped to deal with light aircraft, and offers skydiving lessons.
L'Escala A small holiday resort at the southern end of the Gulf of Roses. It is a delightful fishing village well known for its delicious sardines. The resort offers much for the water sport enthusiast, two yacht clubs and a number of marinas. This is also the point of entry to the Roman colony of Empúries, the most visited archaeological site in Catalonia.
Toroella de Montgri Here there is a 13th century castle, a tremendous gothic church and a museum dedicated to natural history. Also to note are the hermitage of Santa Catalina and the legendary 'Tower of Witches'.
L'Estartit Close to Toroella de Montgri is this fishing village which offers a port, marina and as much as 3km of beaches. From here you must visit the Medes Islands. Take a glass bottom boat and be amazed by what lies beneath the sea.
The Medes Islands A small archipelago made up of seven islets and several reefs just a mile off the Catalan coast from Emporda and the Montgri Massif. The area is one of exceptional biological and ecological worth. The varying depths of the sea water around the islands, and the contrast of the rocky and sandy areas of the seabed, combined with the rock-type which lends itself to the formation of tunnels and caves, all work together to attract a wide variety of species - as many as 1,345 have been recorded.
Ullastret The archaeological site of the ancient Iberian city makes this village of great interest.
Pals Here there are a number of notable historic buildings, including the two towers of the old walled town, and the church of Sant Pere.
Begur This really is an exclusive tourist resort and at the cove of Aiguablava there is a Parador hotel. Here there is a 15th century ruined castle set upon a hilltop offering spectacular views of the Costa Brava.
Palafrugell This area is 4km inland and has been shielded from tourist activity. On Sundays the town comes alive with the lively morning market. The aged streets and shops are huddled around the delightful 16th century church. There are three districts within Palafrugell:
Tamariu has a small beach and a small population to go with it! Llafranc is nestled into the next bay, with a stretch of beach and a marina. Calella de Palafrugell is mainly a fishing port, with ageing whitewashed houses slotted into narrow streets. It has a stunning rugged coastline interspersed with lots of petite sandy beaches, which can get quite packed on account of the enticing crystal clear waters.
Palamos A busy resort with a yacht-filled harbour and a notable 16th Century church. The town dates back to 1277, and as with many of the towns on the Costa Brava, the old town is separate to the new. Palamos is an important fishing village and often plays host to big yachting events.
Platja d'Aro and S'Agaro These are two of the most commercialised resorts on the Costa Brava. Here there is much for the tourist: hotels, campsites, shops, restaurants and bars, as well as numerous leisure facilities. But over and above this, the area is one of beauty with golden-sand beaches.
Sant Feliu de Guixols This town is at the heart of the Costa Brava, surrounded by pine and oak-filled woods. It has seen some commercialisation, but perhaps not as much as Platja D'Aro and S'Agaro. Of particular notability here is the hermitage of Sant Grau and the Gothic church with its celebrated iron gate, the Porta Ferrada. Water sports lovers are well catered for here, particularly in the nearby cove of Cala Salions.
Now we move on to the Selva Lowlands, starting at Tossa de Mar, and going southwards on to.... Lloret de Mar Lloret de Mar has a rather well known reputation for being one of the most lively resorts on the Costa Brava. It offers much to the party-lover: strings of pubs, clubs, amusement arcades and well-known fast food chains line the promenades while hotel upon hotel tower way above the palm trees.
Aside from these tourist attributes, Lloret does have some pleasant sites to behold, for example, the Santa Clotilde Gardens, open during the summer, and the ruined fortresses marking each end of the main beach, among other sites, monuments and beaches.
BlanesThe last town on the Costa Brava, with a substantial beach and harbour, and offering much for the tourist in the way of hotels, restaurants, bars and discos. Probably its most notable feature are the Mar i Murtra Botanical Gardens which are perched way above the sea, offering amazing views along the cove-studded coastline. Apart from showcasing over 4,000 species of plants from five continents, some of them threatened with extinction, the gardens also have a valuable research and study centre.
INLAND TOWNS As well as the coastal towns, this region has an abundance of notable inland areas that must be visited:
PeraladaThere are many fortified villages in this region and Peralada is one of them. It has several noteworthy buildings including the striking castle of the Rocaberti family which is set within a large park.
The castle, originally a Renaissance palace, is now home to the deluxe Casino of Peralada, the grounds of which are the site for an important summer Music Festival which brings the world's top classical music talent to the Costa Brava.
The castle and its 14th Century walls, sits beside the 1206 Convent of Nuestra Señora del Carme, which has an attractive cloister and patio and exhibits a fine collection of glass, ceramics and paintings and has a library with over 60,000 books.
Figueres This town is located in the heart of Catalonia and is well known as being the birthplace of surrealist artist Salvador Dali. The town is much visited for its Dali Museum, where the artist is buried. Figueres is also the birthplace of the Sardana dance, the traditional dance of Catalonia. Also of interest in Figueres is the castle fortress of Sant Ferran, the parish church of Sant Pere, the Museum of l'Emporda and the Toy Museum.
Besalú This town was elected as Spain's historical national property in 1966.
Its most striking feature is 12th Century roman bridge that spans the Fluvià River. There are two 10th Century churches and the Jewish baths, which date back to the Middle Ages.
Banyoles The big attraction here is the 6km lake, which reaches depths of 60m. Here you can swim, fish, canoe or hire a rowing boat. Banyoles hosted the rowing events of the 1992 Olympic Games.
Apart from the lake, there is also an archaeological museum, a 14th Century Gothic church and the neo-classical monastery of Sant Esteve de Banyoles.
Girona The Costa Brava capital is split into two by The River Onyar.
The old quarter is highlighted by the Cathedral, which, like many of Spain's cathedrals, is a fusion of many different historical periods and styles. Also worthy of a visit is the Jewish Quarter, with it's winding streets shaded by tall, stone walls and offering an abundance of shops.
The Twelfth Century Arab Baths, the old City Walls, and the museums of archaeology and history are of notable interest whilst the churches of Sant Nicolau, Sant Feliu and Sant Pere de Galligants highlight the religious background of the region.
The Costa Brava: rugged coastline; historical treasure; inset with cities, towns and villages that leave the visitor in awe of his surroundings. Forget the typecast brand and take in the intrinsic culture, scenery and traditions of this stunning part of Spain.


Reference : www.thaisabuy.com

Spain: the rugged coastline - Forget the typecasting and enjoy the spectacular view of the good French

In 1905, Ferran Agullo, journalist and author who coined the term "Costa Brava, the coast between the Mediterranean and the Pyrenees in the province of Girona described.

The Costa Brava is where it all began, as regards tourism goes, since 1950, tourists began to flock to the coast, the first of which arrived in the ex-combatants.

Until now, tourism is still the main sector of the Costa Brava.

Costa Brava means' rugged coastline. The 214 km long coaststretches from Blanes to the south, French-Portbou bordered on the north. And 'the northern coast of Catalonia.

The Costa Brava is distinctive coastline dotted with bays, beaches interrupted - is unique and well served for swimming and water sports, hitting rocks spores by lush pine trees, caves with fascinating shimmering metallic colors from the inner walls of layered and surprising with carpet underwater rock formations, an oasis for themselvesDivers. In addition, you can find just off the coast with beautiful plants flourishing forest and wildlife filled.

moderate rainfall, hours of sunshine and a Mediterranean climate, are all characteristics of the Costa Brava, which combined with its glowing history, beautiful scenery along the coast, and its famous resorts, a Coastal make this the most popular Spain.

Perhaps the Costa Brava has seen some false as a typical packageDestination. But this is unjust, and that reputation can be attributed to reality some of the many places on the coast.

The truth is that this very diverse region, with a rich cultural heritage, fortified towns, ancient villages, stunning Mediterranean coast and offers stunning natural beauty.

In 1900, Picasso and Marc Chagall were attracted by this natural beauty and returned as Salvador Dalí in his home here a trace of the craftsmanfollowed.

Before the civil war had begun, the Costa Brava, with Côte d'Azur in France as a playground for the competitiveness of the rich and famous. When the ex-powered Ministry of Tourism promotes as favorite holiday began in 1950, with little regard for the environment, the stars, but returned as a quiet fishing villages were consumed by high-rise hotel, turned their backs on the region and was further.

However, the region had always survived no matter charmWhat did the tourist boom to destroy them and the Spaniards continued to visit for its breathtaking natural beauty.

Today, the cities of Costa Brava increasingly hesitant, their traditional values for mass tourism. The region is the strengthening of these values for the discerning traveler, you are greeted with open arms, dress, and began to turn a page on its unfair branding epitome of mass tourism.

Some brief information on some ofmajor cities of Costa Brava, and removes some of them only from the coast.

Portbou a prime destination for those wanting a break from most markets Resorts. The city is the northernmost of the Costa Brava. Promenade-side restaurants and bars attract a large number of visitors per day. The border with France is near. The market day is Friday.

Cholera small coastal village, with a winter population of only about 300 tooIn summer it is full. The ideal place to indulge in real time to rest and traditional values.

Llanca This town is 15 km from the French-Spanish border, with a fishing port and a marina. The oldest part of the country has a number of historic buildings around the Plaza Major.

Port de la Selva If the Cap de Creus has a large bay, you will find Port de la Selva. This is a family resort, and a good basis forHikers admire the Cap de Creus. It is one of two access points in Sant Pere de Rodes, one of the most important of all parties Catalan Romanesque. There is also a dive center here.

Cap de Creus nature reserve declared in 1998, this beautiful area is the only reserve in Spain, both on land and sea, including the largest uninhabited area of the Mediterranean coast of Spain. The coastline is dotted with barren rocks and broken by small coves. The flora andThe fauna is quite unique and includes many kinds of rare birds that are endangered.

This city is the way Cadaques approached by a small elevator running through the mountains of Roses. Cadaques is very picturesque: cobalt blue waters, sandy beaches, fishing boats, aged white houses, roads dotted like Warren, a hill and 16 century parish church. It is not a family resort - one more high-end shelter for people with artisticand the creative blood that flows through their veins.

Roses This city is a fortress from the 16th century, even as a ruin or of great architectural importance. Again, the remains of Rhode greek settlement. Its fishing port is one of the leaders of the coast and offers a lively nightlife in its marina.

south installation Empuriabrava Roses name sounds old, but in fact was built for tourists. It is known asThe largest marina in the world. There are many channels as possible to Venice, and boat owners have their own mooring in front of their homes. Here you can indulge in almost every water sport you like. This city also has its own airport, which is equipped to handle light aircraft and offers skydiving lessons.

L'Escala, a small town south of the bay of Roses. This is a charming fishing village known for its delicious sardines.The resort offers much for fans of water sports, two yacht clubs and a number of marinas. This is also the entry point in the Roman colony of Empúries, the most visited archaeological site in Catalonia.

Toroella de Montgri There is a castle of the 13th century, a vast Gothic church and a museum of natural history. Also to note are the Hermitage of Santa Catalina and the legendary Tower of witches'.

L'EstartitThe Toroella de Montgri is this fishing village that offers a port, marina and up to 3 km of beaches. From there, you must visit the Medes Islands. Take a glass bottom boat and what lies beneath the sea is excited.

The Medes Islands a little archipelago of seven small islands and other barriers Massif just a mile off the Catalan coast from Empordà and Montgri. The area is one of exceptional biological and ecological value. The different depth of sea water,around islands, and the contrast of rocky and sandy seabed, combined with the type of rock that is suitable for the formation of tunnels and caves, all working together to attract a variety of styles - up to 1345 have reported.

Ullastret The archaeological site of ancient Iberian city makes this country great interest.

Pals There are a number of important historical buildings, including the two towersancient walls and the church of Sant Pere.

Begur This is truly a unique resort and Bay of Aiguablava Parador is located in a hotel. There is a ruined 15th Century castle on a hill with breathtaking views of the Costa Brava.

Palafrugell This area is located 4 km inland and was protected from tourism activities. Sunday, the city comes alive with the bustling market. The old streets and shops are closing inthe beautiful church of the 16th Century. Palafrugell, there are three districts within:

Tamariu has to go a little beach and a small population with him! Llafranc Bay is next, with a long beach and a marina. Calella de Palafrugell is primarily a fishing port, the white houses with aging in narrow slit. It has a rugged coastline interspersed with many impressive petite sandy beaches that can be quite packed on behalf of the tantalizing crystalWaters.

Palamos A lively resort with a marina full of a 16th century church remarkable. The city dates back to 1277, and how many of the towns on the Costa Brava, the old city is separated from the new. Palamos is an important fishing and often host large events Yachting.

Platja d'Aro and S'Agaro These are two of the most traded on the Costa Brava. There is plenty for tourists: hotels, campgrounds, shops,Restaurants and bars, and numerous recreational facilities. But beyond this, the area is one of beauty with golden sandy beaches.

Sant Feliu de Guixols This city is located in the heart of the Costa Brava, with forests of pines and oaks filled surrounded. He saw some marketing, but perhaps not as much as Platja d'Aro and S'Agaro. Of particular notability here and the hermitage of Sant Grau Gothic church with its famous Iron Gate, the Porta Ferrada. WaterMost athletes are in good hands here, especially in the nearby bay of Cala Salions.

Now we are moving in the Selva lowlands, starting in Tossa de Mar and south .... Lloret de Mar, Lloret de Mar has a rather well-known reputation as one of the liveliest resorts of the Costa Brava. It offers a lot for the party lovers: string of pubs, nightclubs, arcades and fast-food chain known as the Promenade hotel on line hotel tower much higherpalms.

In addition to these attributes tourist Lloret should see some nice pages, for example, have gardens of Santa Clotilde, open in summer, and the ruined fortifications marking each end of the beach, along with other sites, monuments and beaches.

The last town on the Costa Brava Blanes, with a major port and the beach, offers much to tourists in hotels, restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Probably its most important featureSea Murtra the Botanical Gardens are, who is enthroned above the sea road, a unique view of the bay coast occupied. In addition to presenting more than 4,000 plant species from five continents, some of them endangered species, the gardens also have a value of research and study center.

Inland cities and coastal cities, the region has a wealth of remarkable interior that must be visited:

There are many Peraladafortified villages in this region and Peralada is one of them. It has some notable buildings, including the distinctive castle of the family Rocabertí in a large park is located.

The castle, originally a Renaissance palace houses the Casino Peralada Deluxe, the reasons for which the site for a great Summer Music Festival, which brings major talent in the world of classical music on the Costa Brava.

The castle and the walls from the 14th century, is located next to 1206Monastery of Nuestra Señora del Carmen, which has a lovely courtyard and cloister, and shows a fine collection of glass, ceramics and paintings and has a library of over 60,000 books.

This town is Figueres Catalonia is located in the heart of Dali and is well known as the birthplace of the surrealist painter Salvador. The city is most visited for its Dali Museum, where the artist is buried. Figueres is the birthplace of the Sardana dance, traditional danceCatalonia. Also of interest in Figueres, the castle of Sant Ferran, the parish church of Sant Pere, Empordà Museum and Toy Museum.

Besalú This city was chosen in 1966 when the national historic property in Spain.

Its most striking feature of 12th century Roman bridge over the river Fluvià. There are two 10th churches, abbeys and bathrooms Jewish dating back to medieval times.

The great BanyolesAttraction here the lake 6 km, the depth of 60m is achieved. Here you can swim, rent a canoe or a rowboat. Banyoles Rowing will host the Olympic Games in 1992.

Beside the lake, there is also an archaeological museum, the 14th Century Gothic church and cloister in the neoclassical style of Sant Esteve de Banyoles.

The Costa Brava Girona Onyar capital divided in two by river.

The city will be highlighted by the cathedral, who, like manySpanish cathedrals, is a fusion of different eras and styles. Also worth visiting the Jewish quarter with its winding streets shaded by tall stone walls and offers a wide variety of shops.

The twelfth-century Arab baths, the ancient city walls, and museums of archeology and history are of great interest, while the churches of Sant Nicolau, and Sant Feliu de Sant Pere Galligants highlight the religious background of the region.

Costa Brava: robustleaving the coast, the Bay of historical treasure cities, towns and villages that the visitor in awe of his surroundings. Forget the mark typecast and take in the internal culture, landscape and traditions of this wonderful part of Spain.