Empuriabrava is a small Spanish seaside resort, located just 40km from the border with France. It is therefore an ideal destination if you want a change of scenery for a weekend, without going very far from home. But, you may be wondering what to do in Empuriabrava? What are the must-see things and activities not to miss during your trip? In this article, I share with you the 8 essential things to see and do in Empuriabrava.
1. The beaches of Empuriabrava
If you go on vacation to the Costa Bravait is undoubtedly to enjoy the superb Spanish beaches! And we understand you. Every year the beaches of Catalonia attract more and more travelers, and in particular the French. Rest assured, during your stay in Empuriabrava, you will not be disappointed. This seaside resort full of superb expanses.
First of all, the main beach of Empuriabrava measures almost 2 km long. It runs along the entire city to the Muga river. There you will find golden sand and a deep blue sea that will delight travelers, young and old. Moreover, the climatic conditions in this region of Spain will allow you to swim in a pleasant sea for months May to October. The dream!
However, although it is the most accessible beach in Empuriabrava, it is far from being the only stretch to discover.
Indeed, don't also miss the Rubina beachlocated a little further north, on the other side of the marina. This beach attracts travelers for its a little wilder appearance. Here, no beach bars or restaurants, only fine sand as far as the eye can see and a natural setting breathtaking.
Finally, for the most courageous, you can venture towards the Can Comes beach. After a ten-minute walk, you will come across this expanse devoid of any construction. However, it must be emphasized that Can Comes beach is a mixed beachtextile and naturist. Some areas are more frequented by naturists than others, so you should choose your swimming area carefully if you are not a fan of this practice. In addition, know that it is the ideal beach for observe kitesurfers or to take your first kitesurfing lessons.
2. Empuriabrava marina
The seaside resort of Empuriabrava is mainly known for its huge marina, where we find no less than 23km of navigable canals. There you will find bars and restaurants to spend your long summer evenings at the water's edge, hotels, but also activities: mini golf, water activities, parachute jumping.
In addition, the Empuriabrava marina is also a pleasant place to stroll on foot, along its canals. Its atmosphere sometimes recalls that of Venice. What is certain is that the charm of this marina generally makes people fall in love with this Spanish destination. It is she who makes Empuriabrava so special!
3. Take a trip on the canals
Now that you have visited Empuriabrava from land, it is time to discover from its channels. You will be able to rent a small boat for your getaway or book an excursion with a guide. This walk along the canals of Empuriabrava will allow you to see the city from a new perspective. You will appreciate the white houses, the flowery streets and the calm of certain corners little visited on foot. This will also be an opportunity to see how many houses have their own private pontoon. Maybe even your accommodation on site will be accessible only by water ! It's enough to make you feel disorientated…
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4. Discover Castello d’Empuries
If you are on vacation in Empuriabrava, you absolutely must visit Castello d'Empuries. This neighboring town is located just a 10-minute drive from the resort.
You will see, the historic center of Castello d'Empuries is full of monuments to discover, many of which date from the 19th century or earlier. You will be able to see:
- The superb Basilica of Santa Maria and its parish museum.
- The Vell Bridge, on the border of the city.
- Its Jewish quarter and its synagogues.
- There Carlina tower, remains of the city's fortifications.
- The public washhouse, built in the 19th century.
- L'Farinera ecomuseum, installed in one of the most important flour mills in the region.
So, whether you are a history lover or not at all, you will take great pleasure in discover this fortified city.It offers a completely different atmosphere than Empuriabrava, but is just as pleasant.
5. Go to the surrounding villages
If you spend a few days in Empuriabrava and have toured the beaches and Castello d'Empires, you will be able to explore the surrounding towns and villages. For this, it will be preferable to have a car available during your stay!
First of all, 12 km from your destination, you can explore the city of Figueres where Salvador Dali was born. A theater-museum is also dedicated to him. And we can say that his original architecture worth a detour alone!
On the other hand, at 25km, you will come across the small village of Cadaques. This fishing village with white and blue houses leaves no one indifferent. Time seems to have stopped there. In addition, the panoramas it offers by the sea will amaze you.
6. Visit the Butterfly Park
The Butterfly Park (or “butterfly garden”) is both a tropical garden and one exotic animal reserve. There we find dozens of species of butterflies, but also birds (toucans, parrots), turtles, bats and reptiles. The visit lasts approximately 1h30 and will allow you to evolve in an environment that resembles Amazon jungle. Being close to the animals during your visit makes the experience all the more captivating.
7. Participate in the Terra de Trobadors festival
In the neighboring town of Castello d'Empuries there is a event not to be missed under any circumstances : the medieval festival Terra de Trobadors. It is held every year at the beginning of September in the historic center of the city. It is one of the first cultural festivals in Catalonia, and one of the most important in the region.
You will find there theatrical performances, concerts, battle reenactments and gastronomy linked to the theme of the Middle Ages. If you pass through the region during this time of year, be aware that there are enough to entertain young and old for many hours!
8. Visit the Aiguamolls d’Emporda Natural Park
This natural park is very different from what you will see in Empuriabrava. He will please above all for nature lovers. In fact, the Aiguamolls de l'Emporda Natural Park is the second most important wetland in Catalonia.
There are more than 5000 hectares there, which means that it will be difficult to go around. We discover there marshes and a wide variety of birds (more than 300 species).
Following the urbanization of the area, the marshes were greatly degraded during the 1970s. However, today, this area is a protected area and the preservation of these natural spaces is essential.
On site, a information center will allow you to book guided tours to meet various species of animals and learn more about the local flora. It is also possible to visit the Aiguamolls d'Emporia Natural Park on foot or by bike thanks to the numerous walking and cycling trails which surround it.
You now have in mind the activities not to be missed if you visit Empuriabrava soon. This Spanish seaside destination will be ideal for history lovers, nature lovers or travelers looking for dream beaches. In any case, you can spend a relaxing and exotic vacation there just a few minutes from France!
