(English) The seven best beaches in Cataluña

As a region that looks out entirely onto the Mediterranean Sea, Cataluña has a wide range of dream-like beaches and coves with crystal-clear waters. Picture-postcard places where you can make really the most of the summer months. Whether on the Costa Brava or the Costa Dorada, Cataluña’s beaches are internationally recognised for their exceptional natural surroundings, the cleanliness of their waters and sand, along with the high-quality of services on offer. There’s a wide selection to choose from, but we’ve decided to review seven of the best beaches in Cataluña from north to south.

This year, a number of blue flag beaches have had their status renewed, which looks at the quality of the water, sand and services. For 2017, here are the very best beaches in the region you can explore.

Cala Montjoi (Rosas. Girona)

Found in Parque Natural del Cabo de Creus, this idyllic cove stands out for its calm and crystal-clear waters. The beach is completely sheltered from the wind, so there’s usually not too much swell. It offers a relatively wide beach and, being surrounded by the Pyrenees, views of the extraordinary local landscapes are breath-taking. The beach has all kinds of services, even a diving school. Despite its beauty, the beach is rarely crowded.

Playa de Aiguablava (Begur. Girona)

One of the most charming beaches on the whole of the Costa Brava, here, crystal-clear waters stretch out from an abundance of natural green spaces. Though not too big (just 75 metres long), the sand on this beach is very fine with hardly any slope down towards the sea. Another advantage is the beach’s easy accessibility, along with the nearby restaurants and parking facilities.

Beaches in Cataluña: Cala del Senyor Ramón (Santa Cristina d’Aro. Girona)

As a wide, 800-metre long beach, Cala del Senyor Ramón really is an unmissable attraction. Halfway between Tossa de Mar and Sant Feliu de Guíxols, this natural beauty spot is highlighted by a rich marine environment that can be fully appreciated thanks to the clear turquoise waters. There’s a beach bar, showers and car park before you head down the track towards the cove.

Cala Sa Boadella (Lloret de Mar. Girona)

For those looking to get away from the heaving crowds and relax on a practically deserted beach, Cala Sa Boadella in the Girona town of Lloret de Mar is the perfect choice. Despite being a cove, it provides 250 metres of uninterrupted beach. More than enough space for those seeking some tranquillity and just a kilometre from the other busier beaches in this popular tourist part of the Costa Brava. Clean waters and fine sand complement this beautiful spot surrounded by its red cliffs.

Playa de Castelldefels (Castelldefels. Barcelona)

Less than half an hour’s drive from Barcelona is this impressive, almost 5-kilometre long beach, perfect for relaxing in the calm Mediterranean Sea or enjoying a wide variety of fun water sports, including sailing. This beach is very well-equipped with all kinds of services, and even offers free WiFi. A great option for people staying in Barcelona who want to explore the surrounding areas and find a great beach for an afternoon of relaxation.

Playa de San Sebastián (Sitges. Barcelona)

The best-known beach in the town of Sitges, less than an hour’s drive outside of Barcelona. While you enjoy the fine sands, drink in the beautiful views of this stunning Catalan town. 190 metres long and, being an urban beach, with a fantastic promenade, the beach usually gets a little busier in the summer season. It offers all the services you could possibly need and is the perfect place for enjoying the sunrise or sunset.

Amposta (Tarragona)

Part of one of nature’s most beautiful spectacles, the Delta del Ebro, welcome to this 4.6 kilometres of practically deserted beach. At Los Eucaliptos, you’ll find impressive dunes, fine sand, lots of vegetation and plenty of different species of bird. A natural symphony that’s perfectly balanced here, the beach is never overcrowded, and the seas are mostly fairly calm. The beach is just a 25-minute drive from the centre of Amposta.

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