A Luxurious Escape to Costa Brava: Our 4-Day Itinerary

When most people picture the Costa Brava, they imagine crowded beaches and tourist resorts. But hidden along this rugged stretch of Catalonia lies a quieter, more refined side, one of medieval villages, turquoise bays, and elegant gastronomy. Earlier this spring, we discovered it for ourselves: four days of slow travel, boutique hotels, and unforgettable flavors. Here’s our curated itinerary for experiencing Costa Brava in style.

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Arrival in Costa Brava

We arrived in the evening and were immediately enchanted by Can Bassa in Madremanya. The hotel was magically lit, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere. Even though nobody was there to check us in personally, we received all the instructions to settle in smoothly. We made the evening extra cozy with a drink and a snack from the honesty bar, savoring the calm and intimacy of this hidden gem.

Day One: Breakfast & Cycling to Girona

Our first morning began with a delicious breakfast in the garden, surrounded by olive trees and the peaceful countryside. Afterward, we set out on two wheels. Can Bassa offers e-bikes, which are essential, the road to Girona winds through the hills, with steady climbs. With the e-bikes, the ride was pure joy, offering sweeping views of rolling hills, stone villages, and the Mediterranean light dancing across the landscape.

Once in Girona, we headed to the Casa Cacao Rooftop, a stylish terrace by the Roca brothers. Perfect for cocktails, tapas, or a late brunch, it offers panoramic views of the city’s pastel-hued rooftops; an effortless luxury moment we loved lingering over.

For dinner, we drove to Clara in Begur. Seated inside their cozy space with a unique interior, we enjoyed one of the most memorable meals of our trip. The food was exceptional, with surprising flavor combinations that were both innovative and harmonious. Every bite felt like a discovery, truly an unforgettable dining experience.

Day Two: Cadaqués & Cap de Creus

The next day, we set out for Cadaqués, a picturesque whitewashed fishing village beloved by Salvador Dalí. We strolled its narrow streets and paused for a wine, soaking in the village’s charm.

Lunch was at Tala, on their terrace with a heavenly view over Cadaqués. The dishes were light, fresh, and modern, the perfect balance of flavors. A must-try: the oysters, which were exquisite.

In the afternoon, we drove to Cap de Creus Natural Park, one of the most extraordinary and tranquil places we’ve ever visited. Tip: there’s a little bar at Punta de Cap de Creus where you can enjoy a drink while taking in views over the entire cape, absolutely breathtaking.

That evening, we dined at Grava Pals, with its super cozy garden setting. The pizza and Aperol spritz were delicious, making it the perfect casual yet refined end to the day.

Day Three: Bay Hopping & Coastal Walks

On our third day, we drove to Llafranc and walked to Parafugell. The trail was a beautiful coastal walk, full of unique viewpoints and photogenic spots, ideal for capturing memories of Costa Brava’s rugged elegance.

Lunch was at Margarita, and honestly, it became our favorite meal of the trip. The Pasta al limón y salvia con almendras was heavenly, and every other dish was just as delightful. We’re already dreaming of coming back!

That evening, we visited Mooma for dinner. Its beautiful, spacious garden created a relaxed, chill atmosphere. The menu offered incredible meats and comfort food with a sophisticated twist, another perfect example of Costa Brava’s casual elegance.

Departure

On our final morning, we enjoyed a leisurely breakfast at Can Bassa, soaking in the serenity of Madremanya one last time. Costa Brava revealed itself to us not as a crowded beach destination, but as a region of hidden luxury, boutique hotels, exquisite cuisine, dramatic landscapes, and peaceful villages.

Practical Tips for Your Costa Brava Escape

Where to Stay:

• Can Bassa, Madremanya: Boutique farmhouse hotel, fairy-tale ambiance, beautiful garden, and honesty bar. Ideal base for exploring Costa Brava.
  

Getting Around:

• E-bikes from Can Bassa: Essential for cycling in the hilly countryside towards Girona. Makes the climbs effortless and enjoyable.

• Car recommended: For reaching Cadaqués, Cap de Creus, and coastal bays.
  

Dining Highlights:

• Casa Cacao Rooftop (Girona) : Cocktails, tapas, brunch with panoramic city views.

• Tala (Cadaqués): Terrace with heavenly views, light and modern dishes. Oysters are a must!

• Grava Pals : Cozy garden dining, excellent pizza and Aperol.

• Margarita (Llafranc): Our personal favorite. Fresh, creative dishes, especially the Pasta al limón y salvia con almendras.

• Mooma: Relaxed garden setting, refined comfort food and exceptional meats.
  

Activities & Walks:

• Cycling to Girona: Beautiful scenic roads with breathtaking views of hills and villages.

• Cap de Creus Natural Park: Must-visit for dramatic cliffs and panoramic views. Don’t miss the bar at Punta de Cap de Creus.

• Llafranc to Parafugell walk: Stunning coastal trail with unique viewpoints and photo spots.
  

Travel Tip:

• Go early spring or late summer for pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and a more peaceful, luxurious experience.