Platja d’Aro is a picturesque coastal town on the Costa Brava, in the municipality of Baix Empordà, located on the north eastern coast of Spain, about 119 km. from Barcelona Airport and 31 km. from Girona Airport. Platja d’Aro is one of the most visited tourist resorts and comprehensively developed for tourism with commercial and leisure facilities.
What to Expect?
The town is situated between the hills of the Gavarres Massif and the Mediterranean Sea, which provides breathtaking views and a stunning natural landscape. The town is a popular destination for tourists, especially during the summer season, due to its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and excellent shopping and dining options.
The town has a vibrant and lively atmosphere, with numerous shops, restaurants, and bars lining the streets. The main shopping street is the Carrer Major, where visitors can find a variety of shops and boutiques selling everything from fashion and accessories to souvenirs and local crafts. In the evenings, the town comes alive with music and entertainment, with numerous bars and nightclubs offering a lively nightlife scene.
The town is also surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including the nearby Gavarres Massif, which offers excellent opportunities for hiking and cycling. The area is crisscrossed by numerous trails and paths, which lead through forests and hillsides, providing stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Things to Do & See in Platja d’Aro…
Things to do and see in Platja d’Aro are endless. Popular attractions and sights in Platja d’Aro include;
- The long sandy beach of Platja d’Aro,
- nearby little coves,
- water sports, cycling, hiking,
- the historic centre of Castell d’Aro,
- the Golf d’Aro-Mas Nou golf club,
- enjoying enjoy the terraces, bars and restaurants in the evening,
- the Beer Festival in October.
Platja d’Aro is also known for its beautiful beaches, which are some of the best in the region. The main beach, Platja Gran, is a wide sandy beach that stretches for over two kilometers and is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports. Other nearby beaches, such as Cala del Pi and Sa Conca, are smaller and more secluded, making them perfect for those seeking a quieter and more peaceful experience.
Top Attractions & Sights in Platja d’Aro for you…
Platja d’Aro Gran beach
The town boasts a long and beautiful sandy beach that stretches over two kilometers, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports. The beach is backed by a long promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, making it a great spot for a stroll and some people watching. The town itself has plenty of shopping options, from high-end boutiques to local markets selling handmade crafts and souvenirs.
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At night, Platja d’Aro comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars and nightclubs catering to a range of tastes and styles. There are also plenty of restaurants serving up delicious Catalan cuisine, as well as international dishes.
For those who want to explore beyond the beach, there are plenty of hiking and cycling trails in the nearby hills and forests. And if you’re a golf enthusiast, there are several world-class golf courses in the area.
Sa Conca beach
Sa Conca beach is a stunning crescent-shaped beach that is situated between two rocky cliffs and boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters and golden sand. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing, as well as for water sports such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling.
Sa Conca beach is known for its unspoiled natural beauty and serene atmosphere. There are several restaurants and bars nearby that offer delicious seafood and refreshing drinks, making it a perfect spot for a day trip or a romantic evening stroll. The beach also has a lifeguard on duty during the summer months, ensuring the safety of all visitors.
Access to Sa Conca beach is through a narrow and winding road, which adds to its secluded charm. There is a small parking lot nearby, but it can fill up quickly during peak season. Visitors can also reach the beach by foot, following a scenic coastal path from the neighboring beaches of Platja d’Aro or Sant Pol.
Cala Rovira beach
Cala Rovira is a picturesque beach known for its crystal-clear waters, soft golden sand, and surrounding pine trees. Cala Rovira is a relatively small beach, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful and intimate day by the sea. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing in the warm Mediterranean climate. The beach is also suitable for families with children, as the water is shallow and calm.
In addition to its natural beauty, Cala Rovira is known for its excellent amenities. There are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, as well as beachside showers and restrooms. Visitors can rent sun loungers and umbrellas to make their beach experience even more comfortable.
For those who enjoy water sports, Cala Rovira is an excellent spot for paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. The clear waters provide excellent visibility for exploring the local marine life. Visitors can also take a walk along the coastal path that leads to nearby coves and beaches, including Sa Conca and Platja del Pi.
Castell d’Aro
Castell d’Aro is a small medieval town located on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. It is situated between the towns of Platja d’Aro and Sant Feliu de Guixols.
The town is home to a 12th-century castle, which gives it its name, and a 16th-century church. The castle has been restored and now serves as a cultural center and museum, displaying the history of the town and its surroundings. The church, dedicated to Santa Maria, is a fine example of Gothic architecture and features a beautifully decorated altarpiece.
In addition to the castle and church, Castell d’Aro has several restaurants and shops that offer traditional Catalan cuisine and handmade crafts. The town also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Festival of Sant Feliu, which takes place in August and features traditional Catalan music and dancing.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Castell d’Aro is surrounded by hills and forests that are ideal for hiking and mountain biking. The nearby coastline offers opportunities for swimming, diving, and other water sports.
Water Sports
Platja d’Aro offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. The crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea are perfect for water sports such as windsurfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing. There are also several diving centers in the area for those interested in exploring the underwater world.
Cycling
Cycling enthusiasts will be delighted to know that Platja d’Aro has several bike rental shops and well-marked cycling routes that offer stunning views of the coast and surrounding countryside. There are also several mountain biking trails for those seeking a more challenging ride.
Hiking
For those who enjoy hiking, there are numerous trails that offer breathtaking views of the Costa Brava coastline and surrounding mountains. One popular trail is the Cami de Ronda, a coastal path that stretches for over 200 kilometers along the Costa Brava.
Food and Drink
Platja d’Aro is a foodie paradise, offering a wide range of cuisines and dining options to suit every taste and budget. From seafood to tapas, from traditional Catalan cuisine to international specialties, this town has it all.
Some of the best restaurants in Platja d’Aro include El Raco de l’Agus, a family-run restaurant that serves delicious local cuisine; Casa Viart, a charming eatery that offers creative and modern dishes; and Sa Cova, a romantic restaurant located in a cave that offers a unique dining experience.
For those who love to sample local wines and spirits, Platja d’Aro has plenty of bars and wine cellars to choose from, including La Vinya del Senyor, a cozy wine bar that offers a great selection of local wines.
Shopping
Platja d’Aro is also a shopper’s paradise, with a wide variety of shops and boutiques that cater to all tastes and budgets. The town’s main shopping area is the pedestrian street of Avinguda S’Agaró, which is lined with shops selling everything from high-end fashion and jewelry to souvenirs and beachwear.
Some of the best places to shop in Platja d’Aro include the shopping center Plaça Major, which is home to a variety of fashion and accessory stores, and the weekly market, where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and other unique items.
Nightlife
When it comes to nightlife, Platja d’Aro has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bar to enjoy a quiet drink or a lively club to dance the night away, this town has it all.
Some of the best bars and clubs in Platja d’Aro include La Taverna del Mar, a popular bar that offers live music and a great selection of drinks; Magic, a club that attracts a young and lively crowd; and Disco Tropics, one of the biggest and most famous clubs in the area.
Lodging
Platja d’Aro offers a wide range of lodging options to suit every budget and taste, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and apartments.
Some of the best places to stay in Platja d’Aro include the Hotel Platja d’Aro, a charming hotel located just a few steps from the beach; the Silken Park Hotel San Jorge, a luxurious hotel that offers stunning sea views; and the Apartaments Kosidlo, a budget-friendly option that offers comfortable and spacious apartments.
Getting There
By Air
The nearest airport to Platja d’Aro is Girona–Costa Brava Airport (GRO), located about 30 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car to reach your destination. Alternatively, Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) is about 120 kilometers away, and it offers a wider range of international flights. From there, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach Platja d’Aro.
By Car
Platja d’Aro is well connected by road and can be easily reached by car. The AP-7 highway connects the town to Barcelona and other major cities in Spain. If you’re driving from Barcelona, take the AP-7 motorway towards Girona and take the exit for Platja d’Aro.
By Bus
If you’re traveling on a budget, taking a bus is an excellent option. You can take a bus from Barcelona, Girona, or other nearby towns to reach Platja d’Aro. The bus station is located in the city center, making it convenient to get around once you arrive.
By Train
Unfortunately, there is no train station in Platja d’Aro. The nearest train station is in Girona, which is about 30 kilometers away. From there, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach Platja d’Aro.
