Looking for a truly relaxing day of sun and sea? We help you discover the lesser-known beaches of Catalonia. There is only one thing left to do: Take advantage of the benefits of a rental car so that everything goes smoothly.
Guide to the lesser-known beaches of Catalonia
Catalonia has been at the top of the world's tourist destinations for decades. And it should come as no surprise. There is no shortage of attractions in terms of culture, gastronomy and the natural environment, both inland and on the coast.
However, being a region that is the focus of maximum interest can mean certain an excess of people or hustle and bustle, when what you are looking for is rest and relaxation. If this is true for you, take note of the lesser-known beaches of Catalonia. Below are paradisiacal enclaves to escape the crowds, all easily reached by car. We take a tour of its more than 580 kilometres (360 miles) of coastline.
Cala Aiguablava (Girona, Baix Empordà)
Begur, the prototypical Costa Brava town, is one of the most exclusive and magical locations in this area. In fact, it is the preferred refuge of the upper echelons of Catalan society. Framed by mountains and with a truly unique medieval old town, a coastline of small coves with turquoise waters was all that was missing to make this spot a place to fall in love with.
We have chosen Cala Aiguablava because it has privileged views of the entire coastline, all the way to the cape of Begur. From the town itself, you can get there by car on the GIV-6532 heading south following the signs to Aiguablava or Fornells. It even has a car park.
Cala Estreta (Palamós, Baix Empordà)
Without leaving the Costa Brava, we have another lesser-known beach in Catalonia. Cala Estreta stands out for being one of the area’s natural jewels, a virgin space, characterised by its pine forests surroundings and cliffs. It has crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkelling due to the richness of its seabed, and an unmistakable shape, because it is divided in two by a huge rock ledge.
In this case, the cove is a little more isolated. You can reach it by car: After taking the C-31, take exit 328 (Vall-llobrega/Platja de Castell). It is less than 2 kilometres (1.2 miles) to the car park, on a well paved, although somewhat narrow, road. From there, there are two routes to reach the cove on foot.
Platja del Morer (Sant Pol de Mar, El Maresme)
If you are visiting Barcelona, reserve a day to enjoy a beach. And, although it might seem impossible, there are some semi-isolated corners where you can enjoy unique natural environments. This spot stands out for the quality of its golden sand and the landscape of the Mediterranean coast.
But, what gives it its unique character are its Roman ruins, located just above the beach. They are the remains of a wine-producing facility dating back to the 1st century.
You can get there by car from Barcelona in under 50 minutes. Take the C-32 (exit 117 Sant Pol de Mar) or the N-II along the coast. There are a couple of public car parks in the surrounding area.
Platja del Torn (L'Hospitalet de l'Infant, Baix Camp)
We have seen samples of idyllic beaches in Girona and Barcelona, all that’s left is the third Catalan province with a coastline, Tarragona. Selecting ‘special’ or little-known beaches in this area is not easy. And not because there aren’t any; on the contrary, this province is one of the most impressive nature reserves in Catalonia.
Platja del Torn is part of La Rojala, which is included in the Pla d'Espais d'Interès Natural de Catalunya (Plan of areas of natural interest). This landscape of dunes, Mediterranean vegetation and pine trees extends almost to the very edge of the coast. As a unique detail, you have the Illot del Torn, a small islet that offers unique views of this beach.
In the water, you will find one of the most impressive reserves of posidonia oceanica meadows in the Mediterranean. So much so that these meadows are known as the underwater forest that guarantees the health and beauty of the area.
Coming from the AP-7, take the exit towards L'Hospitalet de l'Infant and continue south on the N-340 (towards Vandellòs/Ametlla de Mar). Look for the signs to the car park, where you can leave your car while you enjoy a relaxing day.
These examples are just a sample of the lesser-known beaches of Catalonia, but they are within reach. Use the formula of a rental car with OK Mobility and forget about the rest, because we'll take care of it. You are sure to have an unforgettable experience.
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