L’Estartit is a lovely coastal town in Costa Brava, in the municipality of Baix Emporda along the the coastal area of Torroella de Montgri where the Montgri massif dips its feet in the sea, on the north eastern coast of Spain, about 145 km. from Barcelona Airport and 47 km. from Girona Airport.
What to Expect?
L’Estartit is a charming seaside town situated at the foot of the Montgrí Massif, which protects the town from the wind and gives it a unique microclimate. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking natural landscapes.
L’Estartit has a long history, and there are many historical buildings and monuments to explore, such as the Torre de les Bruixes, a medieval watchtower that dates back to the 13th century. The town is also home to a number of museums, including the Museu de la Mediterrània, which showcases the cultural and natural heritage of the region.
One of the main attractions of L’Estartit is its beautiful beaches. The Platja Gran is the main beach, stretching for over two kilometers along the coast. It offers a wide range of facilities, including showers, changing rooms, sun loungers, and beach bars. The Cala Calella and Cala Pedrosa are smaller, more secluded coves, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
For those who love nature, the Medes Islands are a must-see. They are a group of small islands located just off the coast of L’Estartit, and they are a protected marine reserve, rich in marine life. Visitors can take boat trips to the islands, or even go scuba diving to explore the underwater world.
L’Estartit is also a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, with a wide range of activities available, including snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, and sailing. The town’s location at the foot of the Montgrí Massif also makes it a popular destination for hiking and cycling.
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Things to Do & See in L’Estartit…
Things to do and see in L’Estartit are endless. L’Estartit is famous for its 3 km. of long sandy beaches, the marina and the underwater paradise of the Medes islands. The Medes Islands Nature Reserve is made up of seven islets forming a rich marine eco-system. The Medes Islands is a scuba diving paradise in Costa Brava.
Popular attractions and sights include;
- The 3 km. long sandy beaches of L’Estartit,
- a visit to the Medes Islands in a glass-bottom boat to enjoy the underwater environment with more than a thousand varieties of marine life,
- a visit to Torroella de Montgri town with its 13th century castle and Gothic church,
- the rocky coves of Calella and Pedrosa,
- scuba diving and snorkelling at the Medes Islands,
- water sports, sailing,
- cycling and hiking.
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Top Attractions & Sights in L’Estartit for you…
L’Estartit beaches
L’Estartit is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Platja Gran is the largest and most popular beach in L’Estartit, offering soft golden sand and calm waters. It is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach games.
Platja dels Griells is a quieter and more secluded beach, located just south of Platja Gran. It is a great spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Cala Pedrosa is a small, picturesque cove with clear waters and rocky outcrops. It is ideal for snorkeling and diving, as it is home to a variety of marine life.
Cala Calella is a small, sandy beach nestled between rocky cliffs. It is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing, as well as exploring the nearby caves.
Platja de la Pletera is a wide, sandy beach that stretches for over two kilometers. It is a popular spot for water sports, such as windsurfing and kiteboarding.
L’Estartit Marina
L’Estartit Marina is a vibrant port that offers a range of activities and services for visitors to enjoy. The marina is situated on the banks of the Ter River, which flows into the Mediterranean Sea. It boasts modern facilities and amenities, including a fuel station, boat yard, laundry service, showers, and Wi-Fi. The marina can accommodate up to 754 boats of various sizes, including yachts, sailboats, and motorboats.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of water-based activities, including fishing, sailing, and scuba diving. The waters surrounding the marina are home to a diverse range of marine life, making it an excellent destination for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts.
The marina is also a great base for exploring the surrounding area. The nearby Medes Islands are a popular attraction for nature lovers, with their protected marine reserve offering opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and wildlife spotting.
Natural Park of the Montgrí Massif, the Medes Islands and the Baix Ter
The Natural Park of the Montgrí Massif, the Medes Islands, and the Baix Ter is a protected area in the Costa Brava region of Catalonia. The park covers over 8,000 hectares of land and sea, including the Montgrí mountain range, the Medes Islands archipelago, and the Baix Ter wetlands.
The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including several rare and endangered species. Visitors can enjoy hiking and mountain biking on the numerous trails that wind through the Montgrí Massif, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The wetlands of Baix Ter are a popular spot for birdwatching, with over 300 species of birds spotted in the area.
One of the main attractions of the park is the Medes Islands, a group of seven small islands located just off the coast of L’Estartit. The islands are a popular spot for diving and snorkeling, with crystal clear waters and an abundance of marine life, including colorful fish, octopuses, and even some large marine mammals like dolphins and whales.
The park also offers a range of educational and cultural activities, including guided tours of the medieval castle of Montgrí, workshops on traditional crafts and local cuisine, and exhibitions on the history and ecology of the area.
Torroella de Montgri
Torroella de Montgri is a charming town in the Baix Emporda region of Catalonia. It is located at the foot of the Montgri Massif and is known for its rich history and cultural heritage.
The town is home to a number of interesting attractions, including the 13th-century Castle of Montgri, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Other notable sights include the Gothic-style Santa Maria del Mar church and the Museu de la Mediterrania, which showcases the history and culture of the region.
Torroella de Montgri is also famous for its lively festivals, which take place throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the Festa Major, which is celebrated in August and features music, dancing, and a range of traditional Catalan activities.
In addition to its cultural offerings, Torroella de Montgri is also a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The town is situated near a number of hiking trails and nature reserves, including the Montgri, Illes Medes i Baix Ter Natural Park, which offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and birdwatching.
Castell Montgrí l’Estartit
Castell Montgrí is a medieval castle located on a hill in the town of l’Estartit. The castle was built in the 13th century and has a strategic location that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The castle has undergone extensive restoration work, and today it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region.
The castle is surrounded by lush greenery and is an excellent place for nature lovers to explore. Visitors can take a walk around the castle grounds and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding area. There are also several hiking trails that lead up to the castle, offering visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of the area.
At the top of the castle, visitors can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, including the Mediterranean Sea and the nearby Medes Islands. The castle also features a museum that showcases the history of the castle and the surrounding area.
Water Sports
L’Estartit offers a wide range of water sports and activities for visitors to enjoy, including scuba diving and snorkelling. The Medes Islands, a protected marine reserve just off the coast of L’Estartit, offer some of the best diving spots in the Mediterranean. With over 1,200 species of marine life and crystal-clear waters, it’s an unforgettable experience for any diving enthusiast.
There are also plenty of opportunities for water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. The calm waters of the bay make it a perfect place for beginners to learn and for experienced water sports enthusiasts to explore.
Hiking
L’Estartit is also an excellent destination for hiking. The nearby Montgrí Massif is a protected natural park that offers stunning views of the coast and the surrounding countryside. With trails ranging from easy to challenging, hikers of all levels can enjoy the beauty of this unique landscape.
Daily Tours & Excursions
Food & Drink
L’Estartit offers a wide range of culinary options to suit every taste and budget. For seafood lovers, head to La Gaviota, where you can enjoy fresh fish and seafood dishes with stunning sea views. For a more casual dining experience, try La Cantina del Gusto, a cozy Italian restaurant with a lovely terrace. If you’re looking for something different, check out La Parrilla del Pueblo, a Spanish grill restaurant with a great selection of meat dishes.
Shopping
L’Estartit has a variety of shops and markets where you can find souvenirs, clothing, and local products. For a unique shopping experience, visit the weekly market on Thursdays, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. If you’re looking for fashion and accessories, head to La Marquesina, a trendy boutique with a great selection of clothing, shoes, and jewelry.
Nightlife
L’Estartit may be a small town, but it offers a vibrant nightlife scene. Start your night with a cocktail at El Divino, a stylish bar with a great atmosphere. For live music, check out El Cau de la Musica, a popular bar that hosts local and international bands. If you’re looking for a more relaxed evening, head to La Bodega del Mar, a wine bar with a great selection of Spanish wines and delicious tapas.
Lodging
L’Estartit has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. For a luxurious stay, check out Hotel Bell Aire, a stylish hotel with spacious rooms and a rooftop terrace with stunning sea views. If you’re traveling with family or friends, consider renting a holiday apartment at Apartamentos Miami or Pierre & Vacances Estartit Playa. For a budget-friendly option, check out Hostal Santa Clara, a cozy guesthouse with comfortable rooms and a great location.
Getting There
By Plane
The nearest airports to L’Estartit are Girona-Costa Brava Airport, which is about 50 km away, and Barcelona-El Prat Airport, which is about 150 km away. From either airport, you can take a bus or taxi to reach L’Estartit.
By Car
L’Estartit is located on the Costa Brava in Catalonia, Spain, and is easily accessible by car. The town is situated on the GI-642 road, which connects with the AP-7 motorway at exit 5 (L’Escala/Empúries). From here, it’s a short drive north to L’Estartit.
By Train
While there is no direct train to L’Estartit, the nearest train station is in Flaçà, which is about 20 km away. From Flaçà, you can take a taxi or bus to L’Estartit. Alternatively, you can take a train to Girona or Figueres and then transfer to a bus or taxi to reach L’Estartit.
By Bus
L’Estartit is well-connected by bus to nearby towns and cities. The closest bus station is located in Torroella de Montgrí, which is about 6 km from L’Estartit. From here, you can take a taxi or local bus to reach L’Estartit.
