Long-distance hike between quaint villages on the GR-92
Bike from the coast to the mountains
Famous for its skydiving (hot air balloons are available for those who aren’t such adrenaline junkies)
From above, try a stand-up paddle or a kayak tour of these mostly calm waters. A guide can get you to some gorgeous secluded coves along the rugged coast. For something a bit more challenging, kite and windsurfing abound in the area of Castelló d’Empuries and Sant Pere Pescador. The water and wind conditions are so ideal that windsurf world championships have taken place here.
In waters so rich in biodiversity as the Costa Brava, below the surface lies a whole other world to explore. This area has been protected since 2010, with the status of a Nature Park covering the Montgrí Massif, its marine geological extension the Medes-Islands and the Baix Ter marshlands.
The Medes-Islands, protected since 1983, has several rare species and unique caves to explore. Groupers are present in large numbers and you may see moon fish, eagle rays, barracudas, tunas, and schools of dentis. A bit more to the north is another first-class diving spot in the Nature Park Cap de Creus, known for its extensive populations of gorgonian coral (red coral used for jewelry), shipwrecks, and the geomorphology of its seabed, which give continuity to the cliffs that characterize the cape.
Requiring six nights to hike between the enigmatic town of Colliure (right across the border in France) and Cadaqués, the home of Salvador Dalí, this trail system connects many small villages along the Costa Brava coastline. See fortified medieval villages that have well-preserved character and tell many tales of the past. Enjoy picturesque hilly scenery dotted with olive trees and vineyards. Agriculture abounds here, between the sweet onion of Figueres, the cherries from Llers, and the world-class wine production under the designation of origin (DO) Empordà. As you pass through Albera, a protected area bordering France in the north, you’ll have the chance to see the very rare cork oak tree whose bark once made wine corks. Break up your hike to fuel yourself with wine tastings paired with the centuries-old traditional food of Escala salted anchovies.
Whether you prefer to rent an electric bike on a day when the characteristic north wind called Tramontana blows strong, or choose an advanced downhill mountain bike route, this area has something for everyone. From smooth asphalt routes to fully rugged trails, one of the best ways to discover the part of Catalonia is definitely on wheels. To the agricultural plains or the wetlands of the Nature Park of Aiguamolls, stunning views can be found no matter where you bike.
Alt Empordà is one of the most important skydiving centers in the world. For adrenaline junkies, skydiving with world famous Skydive Empuriabrava is a must for the bucket list. Not so adventurous, yet still want to get up in the air? Take a hot air balloon ride over vineyards, medieval villages, the Cape of Creus and the beaches of the Gulf of Roses.
Situated in both the Pyrenees and Pre-Pyrenees and also partly in the Catalan Central Depression, Bergueda is an inland destination offering over 2000km of hiking routes, mountain biking, the most popular climbing wall in Catalonia and some epic paragliding.
The rural district of Baix Ebre has a little of everything; impressive mountain landscapes in the Els Ports Natural Park, greenways for cycling, birdwatching in the Delta de l’Ebre Natural Park and plenty of chances to get out on the water by canoe or sea and river kayak.
A mere 45 minutes from bustling Barcelona you will find one of the most beautiful wine regions in the world. Picturesque farmhouses and family-owned vineyards make up the typical landscape in this area, which can be explored by hiking or biking.
With the Pyrenees to the north and the Mediterranean Sea with its famous Costa Brava to the south, there is definitely diversity in landscape. Protected areas of Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park, the Cap de Creus Natural Park, the Albera Natural Area and the Bassegoda area are just waiting to be explored. The area is rich in history, culture, and art.
