L'Estartit
a natural wonder on the Costa Brava
L'Estartit and its charm
Nature is the hallmark of quality par excellence of l'Estartit. Fine sandy beaches, quiet coves hidden among forests, cliffs overlooking the Medes Islands, sunsets under fields of apple trees and, of course, we can not forget to mention the Aiguamolls del Baix Ter, an area in full recovery of the environment, perfect for raising awareness about how to give back to nature what belongs to it.
Medes Islands
If there is a natural spot on the Costa Brava that you can not miss, that is the Medes Islands. It is an archipelago formed by seven islands in front of the town of l'Estartit that make up the Integral Natural Reserve of the Medes Islands. These islands, from larger to smaller, are: Meda Gran, Meda Xica, Carall Bernat, Tascons Grossos, el Medellot, Tascons Petits and les Ferranelles. This reserve is integrated within the Natural Park of Montgrí, the Medes Islands and Baix Ter. It houses a seabed of great natural value that makes the Medes Islands a unique place in the Mediterranean, highly appreciated by diving enthusiasts.
Estartit seafront promenade
The promenade of l'Estartit has a new face, since a few years ago it was remodeled so that you can walk not only by the port, but also continue to the Paseo del Molinet and pass in front of the last houses overlooking the Medes Islands. This walk is very pleasant and we recommend you to go along it if you are in this area of the Costa Brava.
Old town and Santa Ana street
Santa Anna street is the heart of the commercial activity of the town and, along with the promenade and the marina, is one of the places with the largest influx of visitors. It is a pedestrian street, the oldest in l'Estartit, ideal for strolling, exploring stores, enjoying restaurants or bars, buying souvenirs and much more.
In Santa Anna street you will find establishments that remain open all year round, such as the tobacconist, pharmacies, a bookstore and typical restaurants, offering a local experience at any time of the year.
Paseo Molinet and Cap de la Barra
The Molinet Promenade, recently rebuilt, is a route that leads to the cliff of Cap de la Barra. This walk begins at the end of the marina and continues to a viewpoint with excellent views of the Medes Islands all along the way. The route culminates just in front of the rock formation known as Punta del Molinet, a place converted into a viewpoint that offers spectacular views of the Medes Islands. In addition, at the end of the walk there is a small rocky cove that, when the sea is calm, is a pleasure to swim in.
Weekly Market
Weekly markets are an excellent way to learn about local products and promote the economy of the area. In addition, they represent a way to connect with the local people and observe the activity of the towns and their inhabitants. The weekly market in l'Estartit takes place every Thursday. Some 135 stalls selling olives, clothes, vegetables, fruit, fish, among others, are spread along Avenida de Roma, Calle del Coral and Calle de Ibiza, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.
The Best Beaches
L'Estartit is known for its beautiful beaches and coves, perfect to enjoy the sun and the sea. Some of the best are Platja Gran de l'Estartit, Platja de la Pletera, Mas Pinell, Cala Pedrosa, Cala Montgó, Cala Calella and Cala Ferriol. Each one offers a unique charm, whether for its crystal clear waters, its fine sand or its stunning coastal scenery.
Activities and Water Sports in L'Estartit
The seabed of l'Estartit, especially that of the Medes Islands, is a paradise for divers, but also offers excellent conditions for sailing, windsurfing, kitesurfing and boat rentals. In addition, paddle surfing is an ideal option to explore the waters of the area and, if the sea permits, make a trip to the Medes Islands, enjoying its natural beauty and snorkeling, always respecting the environment and conservation rules.
Caminos de Ronda
Between l'Estartit and l'Escala, the fine sand gives way to the rocks of the Massís de Montgrí, where there is a spectacular camí de ronda, a coastal path that connects different villages, beaches and coves of the Costa Brava. The stretch from l'Estartit to Cala Montgó is one of the most physically demanding, but also one of the most beautiful, passing through coves such as Cala Pedrosa, Cala Ferriol and Cala Montgó, as well as Cala Pelosa and pine forests. The route offers breathtaking views, such as the panoramic view of La Foradada. It is advisable to wear good footwear, as some rocks can be slippery.
Beautiful villages of the Costa Brava
The Costa Brava is home to charming medieval villages that preserve the authentic essence of the Empordà, ideal for strolling and enjoying their atmosphere. Some of the most outstanding are Sant Feliu de Boada, Palau-Sator, Peratallada and Ullastret. We can also mention well-known places such as Cadaqués, Calella de Palafrugell, Llafranc, Tamariu and Pals, as well as other less visited but equally attractive places, such as Púbol, home of the Castell de Gala Dalí, or Cruïlles, Monells and Sant Sadurní de l'Heura, famous for the filming of "Ocho Apellidos Catalanes" (Eight Catalan Surnames). It is also advisable to visit Torroella de Montgrí, the village near l'Estartit, which still preserves the rural charm of the Costa Brava.