I lived in this beautiful Spanish town, likened to Venice, for seven year – and Brits are missing out on this hidden gem in the Costa Brava
My best teenage years were spent in a beautiful town called Empuriabrava in southern Spain. Although I haven’t lived there as long as I’ve been in London, I still remember it with a lot of love – and if you ever have the chance, you should visit it. It’ll make the perfect holiday, and I’m here to tell you why.
Two hours away from Barcelona, a destination I also called my home for a while, lies Empuriabrava. It’s a little town with 8,000 residents but a lot to offer. Some call it the “Venice of Spain”, but it has a completely different vibe.
It can be found in the Costa Brava, and although there’s a lot of tranquillity during the colder months, the summer welcomes thousands of visitors from all over the peninsula and neighbouring countries. Shockingly, despite its small population, Empuriabrava welcomes an estimated 80,000 people during the peak season.
READ MORE: ‘I spent 48 hours in EU capital city and paid less than a night out in London’
Empuriabrava is a unique coastal town in Catalonia, known for its large residential marina system in Europe and the world with more than 25 miles of canals. Sailing around the town is the most popular activity, seeing the different houses. Plus, it’s a fun method of transport to get around.
Besides the waters surrounding the area with stunning homes, it’s also a popular destination for those seeking to take part in water sports and outdoor adventures. People can also relax by the beach, with bars and restaurants being easily accessible.
Empuriabrava also offers the chance to make your dreams come true by skydiving over the most beautiful views. Jumping on a plane at 4,000 metres above sea level, it’s the best way to see the town’s unique shape. There’s also a friendly indoor skydiving tunnel offering the same adrenaline.
Besides the fact that it’s one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Costa Brava – at least for me – it’s also one of the few towns where you can peacefully walk without big crowds. Yes, the perfect summer retreat for those seeking relaxation while enjoying the many amenities offered for locals and tourists alike.
READ MORE: I’m Spanish living in the UK and these key differences blow my mind
Due to Empuriabrava’s tiny size, visitors can practically see and do everything in one day. However, the Costa Brava is dotted with other hidden corners and towns that are worth visiting whilst there, including Castelló d’Empúries, Figueres, Roses, and Cadaqués. Each place offers a unique experience that you shouldn’t miss out on.
There are various ways to get to Empuriabrava, but the most convenient is taking the train. The nearest station (RENFE) is in Figueres, which is nine miles away from the town. From there, some buses will take you straight to Empuriabrava – and during the summer, they are more frequent.
The town is surrounded with a lot of history and a lot of my best memories. Despite living in London for more than a decade, there’s no other place I would recommend visiting if you’re seeking a different experience rather than the typical overcrowded city environment.