Active holidays in Costa Brava and the Girona Pyrenees: adventure beyond the beaches

17 January, 2025

While the Costa Brava is known for its sun-drenched beaches, the region offers far more than just seaside relaxation. From its rugged coastline to the breathtaking Girona Pyrenees, this destination is perfect for active holidays packed with adventure. Whether you’re coasteering, cycling through vineyards, canoeing along tranquil rivers, or hiking in national parks, the Costa Brava and Girona Pyrenees offer something for every adventurer.

An overview of all adventure activities:

• Coasteering: Experience the wild coastline of the Costa Brava
• Cycling and wine tasting: Ride through the vineyards
• Canoeing: Paddle on rivers and lakes
• Hiking: Explore the national parks of the Costa Brava on foot
• Cultural highlights: Cadaqués and Girona
• The best campsites for active travelers
• Why choose the Costa Brava for an active holiday?
• Practical tips for your active holiday

Coasteering: Experience the wild coastline of the Costa Brava

One of the most exciting ways to experience the Costa Brava is through coasteering — an adventure sport that combines rock climbing, cliff jumping, and swimming along the coast. The rugged cliffs and hidden sea caves make for an exhilarating journey through nature.

Sènia Cala Gogo & Internacional is a great base for coasteering, offering easy access to some of the region’s most stunning rocky coves and cliffs. After an adrenaline-filled day, you can relax back at the campsite, which provides modern comforts and beautiful views of the Mediterranean.

Cycling and wine tasting: Ride through the vineyards

Cycling in Costa Brava allows you to explore its scenic landscapes, from the rolling hills of the Empordà wine region to coastal routes. Bike tours with wine tasting are a popular way to combine exercise with local culture, as you pedal through vineyards and charming villages.

A great starting point could be Interpals Eco Resort, near the medieval town of Pals. From here, you can cycle through lush vineyards, stop at local wineries, and explore the region’s quiet countryside. Whether you’re a casual rider or an experienced cyclist, there are routes for all levels.

For more challenging trails, head to the Girona Pyrenees, where mountain biking routes offer stunning views of the valleys and peaks.

Canoeing: Paddle on rivers and lakes

For a more tranquil adventure, canoeing in the Costa Brava and Girona regions is a fantastic way to explore the area’s rivers, lakes, and natural habitats. The Ter and Fluvià rivers offer calm, scenic waters, perfect for leisurely paddling through valleys and forests. You can also join specialized canoe tours, such as bird-watching excursions, where you can spot local wildlife, including herons, kingfishers, and egrets, as you glide through peaceful nature reserves.

For a more challenging experience, sections of the Noguera Pallaresa river provide exciting rapids for more adventurous paddlers. Alternatively, the tranquil Lake Banyoles offers a peaceful setting for canoeing, surrounded by rolling hills and perfect for families or those looking to enjoy a relaxing day on the water.

Hiking: Explore the national parks of the Costa Brava on foot

Hiking is a must on the Costa Brava, with trails that wind through coastal cliffs, forests, and volcanic landscapes

The Cap de Creus Natural Park is a coastal wonderland with dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches. The Camí de Ronda, a scenic coastal trail, connects towns like Cadaqués and Port de la Selva, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Staying at beautiful boutique campsite wecamp Cadaqués provides the perfect base for exploring this region’s rugged beauty.

Inland, the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park offers a unique landscape of extinct volcanoes and lush forests. Trails here, like the path through the Fageda d’en Jordà beech forest, are perfect for nature lovers looking for a peaceful hike.

Cultural highlights: Cadaqués and Girona

While Costa Brava is known for outdoor adventures, it also has a rich cultural side. Cadaqués is famous for its whitewashed houses and artistic heritage, especially as the home of Salvador Dalí. Visiting his house-turned-museum in Portlligat offers a glimpse into the surrealist artist’s life.

Further inland, the medieval city of Girona is a treasure trove of history, with its Gothic cathedral and well-preserved Jewish Quarter. Girona’s vibrant food scene is another reason to visit, offering both traditional Catalan dishes and modern cuisine.

The best campsites for active travelers

Suncamp Holidays offers over 20 campsites in Costa Brava and the Girona Pyrenees, to all types of travelers. From large, family-friendly holiday parks to smaller boutique resorts, there’s a campsite to fit every need. Whether you prefer a luxury mobile home, a glamping tent, or your own campervan, you’ll find the perfect spot for your holiday.

Camping Sènia Cala Gogo & Internacional is great for coasteering, while Interpals Eco Resort is ideal for those embarking on bike tours. For a unique glamping experience near the cultural hotspot of Cadaqués, wecamp Cadaqués is a fantastic choice. Families who love water fun will enjoy the pools at Camping Sandaya Cypsela Resort , and Camping Castell Montgrí is perfect for those who like to stay close to the nightlife in L’Estartit.

Why choose the Costa Brava for an active holiday?

The Costa Brava and the Girona Pyrenees stand out as active holiday destinations due to their diversity. From coasteering along rugged coastlines to cycling through vineyards, paddling on tranquil rivers, and hiking through volcanic landscapes, the region offers a perfect blend of adventure and culture.

Practical tips for your active holiday

• What to bring: comfortable hiking shoes, swimwear, sun protection, and a sense of adventure!
• Getting around: renting a car offers flexibility, but cycling is also a great way to explore the area.
• Guided tours: many activities, such as coasteering and wine tours, can be arranged with local guides to enhance your experience.

With its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and endless opportunities for adventure, Costa Brava and the Girona Pyrenees are perfect for an active holiday. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a nature lover, this region has it all—far beyond the beaches.