Where To Stay On The Costa Brava
The 84 Rooms Guide to the best places to stay on Spain’s Costa Brava.
If you’re searching for quintessential Mediterranean charm, Catalunya’s Costa Brava is mainland Spain’s crown jewel. Running from Blanes (1hr north of Barcelona) to the border town of PortBou near France, this rugged coastline is dotted with beautiful rocky coves, pine forests, and historic villages.
The stunning Camino de Ronda coastal path that runs throughout is great for walking beach to beach while the Emporda region that stretches back from the coast is culturally rich whether you’re keen to explore the Dalí triangle or contemporary crafts. Although less developed than Spain’s other Costas and not so popular with the international crowd as the Balearics or Andalusia, early summer or shoulder season is the best time to go to avoid August crowds (Catalans take August off and rarely holiday anywhere else).
From beachside boutique stays to rural farmhouse hotels, excellent accommodation options are plentiful.
La Bionda, Begur
Situated 2 km inland from some of the coast’s best beaches (Platja Fonda and Platja d'Aiguablava), the hilltop medieval town of Begur is one of the region’s most picturesque spots and this adults-only address is the best in town. The 17th-century building was transformed by Barcelona-based Quintana Partners Studio for the imaginary Bionda, a 1930s woman who hosted influential women for the summers. Subsequently, the eight rooms are named after and inspired by these women - a quirky approach but one that is executed very stylishly. A lounge with an honesty bar and an outdoor courtyard with a communal breakfast table add to the home-away-from-home feel.
Isabella’s, Llafranc
New since last summer, Isabella’s is the first Costa Brava hotel from the Barcelona-based restaurant and hotel group known for its Italian cuisine. Prime position in the front row with direct access to Llafranc’s wide sandy beach, the 26 rooms feature a calming, modern take on the nautical palette and many come with sea views. The restaurant is naturally a talking point and offers a mix of Italian and Spanish flavours served on a terrace with panoramic views.
Casa Nereta, Cadaques
Catalan Surrealist Salvador Dali lived on the outskirts of Cadaques for most of his adult life and Casa Nereta has a direct connection to this element of the town’s history. The former home of painter Joan Ponç, Dali’s friend and artistic contemporary, has been transformed by Ponç’s grandson into a twelve room hotel that sensitively references its past. With a coffee shop, natural wine bar and a busy summer events agenda (think pop up supper clubs, DJ sets and weekly yoga classes), it’s the place to be.
Mas de Torrent, Torrent
This Relais & Chateau property offers the best of both worlds thanks to its rural setting and proximity to the coast (it’s only a 20-minute drive). That’s if you can tear yourself away from the property with its quietly luxurious feel that instantly creates a sense of calm. The 18th-century massia (country house) turned 38-room hotel has plenty of corners for relaxing including pretty gardens, two pools, and a spa. For the more active travelers, there are tennis courts, bikes to rent, and a yoga space.
Hotel Aigua Blava, Begur
As prime positions go, not much can beat Hotel Aigua Blava. Surrounded by views of the sparkling Mediterranean and over to the much-loved beach of Aigua Blava, it’s a spectacular spot for taking it all in while knowing you can jump in the sea at a moment’s notice. The vibe is classic, it’s been here since 1934, and has a feeling of old school charm. Rooms are comfortable and well equipped but the main sell will always be the views.
Hotel la Plaça de Madremanya, Madremanya
Located equidistant between Girona and the coast, this hotel is on the edge of Madremanya, a beautifully preserved medieval village. The eleven room farmhouse has lovely original details like stone archways and terracotta floors and has been decorated with a tasteful mix of antique and modern pieces. The garden patios filled with lilacs, jasmine and bougainvillea are particularly lovely to spend time in (and create a divine scent).
Mas Rauric, Llagostera
On the southern side of the Costa Brava and therefore very easy reach of Barcelona, this rural family-run hotel is housed in a traditional Catalan farmhouse dating back to 1746. Surrounded by eucalyptus and oak forests with a lovely pool area, the five bed adults-only property offers privacy and calm. All of the spacious rooms have comfortable seating areas and freestanding baths.
Viu Empordà, Girona
If you’re looking to rent a house with soul, Costa Brava-based Viu Empordà is the company to trust. They find the best homes across the region owned by local architects, designers, entrepreneurs, winemakers, and families and their portfolio of seventeen properties sleeps between four and fourteen people.
84 Rooms recommends: A Guide To Menorca, and An Insider’s Guide To Palma De Mallorca.