Begur, a gem of the Costa Brava
Located in the region of Baix Empordà, in the province of Girona, with lovely beaches and some of Europe’s most beautiful coves, you will find Begur. A town full of history, culture, friendly people, and marvelous landscapes.
Begur is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Catalonia, not only for the activities it offers to both visitors and locals but also for its history dating back to prehistoric times and, more notably, the Iberian era. Likewise, during the Middle Ages, it was known as Beguri, a name that likely originated from Latin.
Begur is a town that hosts 4,309 residents throughout the year, but during the summer, its population swells up to 40,000 inhabitants.
What to see in Begur
One of Begur’s distinctive features is its five defense towers: Torre de Can Pella i Forgas, Torre de Ca n’Armanac, Torre de Can Marquès, Torre del Mas Pinc, and Torre del carrer Sant Ramon. These were built during the 16th and 17th centuries to defend against pirates and corsairs.
In addition to this landscape, you will also find the characteristic “casas indianas” with colonial style. These houses were built by the “Indians,” locals who crossed the Atlantic Ocean to reach the American continent, fleeing the economic crisis of the time, and upon their return, they constructed these houses with architectural references from the places they visited.
Begur preserves more than twelve heritage houses, architectural gems from the ancestors of the population.
An example of this is Casa Can Petu or Pere Pont, where the owner of the building emigrated to Puerto Rico and, upon returning to Begur, built this stately house in 1889. Like the history of this “casa indiana”, there are many others that form the historical ensemble of Begur.
Among them, the Begurenc Artistic Center stands out, which during the 19th century represented a consolidation of the social and cultural life of the town, until the Civil War put an end to the arts practiced within it.
The Civil War also destroyed the Sant Ramon hermitage, which dated back to the 18th century. It was rebuilt in 1951, achieving a structure very similar to the original one that can be admired today.
The historic center of Begur clearly reflects the influence of the feudal era in the municipality. Its legacy includes emblematic buildings such as the Begur Castle, an iconic image of the town. During the Napoleonic wars, the castle was destroyed in 1810 but has since been reconstructed for the enjoyment of visitors.
Furthermore, among historical buildings, there is the Parish Church of Sant Pere de Begur, included in the Inventory of the Architectural Heritage of Catalonia, which is the main church in the municipality.
The Plaça de la Vila (Town Square) also plays a significant role in the town. Weekly, the municipal market takes place there every Wednesday morning, and in the summer, it expands to include craft and painting fairs on more days of the week.
Don’t forget to wander through the narrow streets of the town and enjoy its tranquility and beauty.
And, of course, remember to take the customary photo on the colorful stairs.
Moreover, if you want to enjoy wonderful views of the area, you must visit the viewpoint of the Carmen Amaya promenade. Located at Sa Roca d’en Pinc, you can enjoy a unique panoramic view of the town, the beaches, and the Cap de Creus.
However, we cannot overlook one of its defining features: its crystal-clear coves, surrounded by cliffs and nature. Following some of the coastal paths, you will discover the best beaches in the area.
The largest beach is Racó, which offers a panoramic view of the Illes Medes.
Within a 10 km radius, you will also find several other famous coves with spectacular landscapes, such as Sa Tuna or Sa Riera. Any visitor will fall in love with the town. However, you must not miss visiting Cala Illa Roja, Aiguafreda, Fornells, Aiguablava, and Platja Fonda.
What to do in Begur
As Begur is part of the Costa Brava, you will find a wide variety of activities to do and explore its corners.
Exploring the Camins de Ronda (coastal footpaths) is a characteristic activity in this area.
From Begur, you will find 3 routes that connect different coves, beaches, and nearby villages, allowing you to discover the wonders hidden among the rocks and the sea foam.
On the other hand, if you prefer to admire the landscapes from a more panoramic point of view, you have the option of the Miradors Route. This route passes through 17 different viewpoints where you can contemplate the entire coast and its villages. You can do it by car or on foot. However, there are some viewpoints that require a hike through nature and can only be accessed on foot.
You will also find many more routes to explore in the area, such as the old path to Sa Tuna, the old path from Fornells to Aiguablava, the Water Path, the local trail “Des Quinze,” and the GR 92 route.
On the other hand, if you want to experience Begur in a different way, there are several water activities to enjoy. You can explore the coastline by kayak, snorkel among the rocks, or swim from cove to cove. This area offers a wide range of options and opportunities to get to know the coastal town in a refreshing, different, and adventurous way.
Moreover, there are companies that organize different routes and excursions to explore and learn about all the hidden spots.
Recommended Activities
Gastronomy
What you cannot miss, or taste, is the richness of Mediterranean fish and seafood, fruits and vegetables from the interior area, and high-quality meat. This region offers a great traditional and seafood cuisine, highlighting the rice dishes, the “sea and mountain” dishes, and above all, the traditional rockfish dish. Also, some typical dishes of the area are the “suquet de peix” (fish stew), the “pica pica” – an appetizer of small squid and clams – grilled sardines, and the “pastís de cabracho” (scorpionfish pâté). Each of them will make you savor each bite like never before.
Where to Eat
If you want to enjoy a great gastronomic experience, you will find a wide variety of restaurants to taste their cuisine. Check out all the restaurants in Begur on Guiacat.
Where to Stay
With a wide variety of accommodations such as hotels, refuges, hostels, campsites, and apartments, you can choose how to continue this adventure. Whether you prefer to stay in the city, enjoying proximity and morning walks to local shops, or in its surroundings, relaxing by the beach.
We especially recommend staying in one of the charming small hotels within the town. You can find the most charming ones on Guiacat.
Festivals and Fairs in the Region
Every region, municipality, and village has its own popular festivals and fairs. Here is a compilation of them so you can enjoy and complement your stay.
In the spring, the Gastronomic Campaign takes place every year. For approximately more than a month, different restaurants offer special menus highlighting the rockfish, their star product, with a wide variety of recipes.
Later, at the end of May, Begur en Flor (Begur in Bloom) is celebrated. Throughout a whole weekend, the entire town is filled with flowers, music, and activities to welcome the arrival of spring.
At the beginning of summer, on the last weekend of June, the Sant Pere Festival kicks off the season. Later, in mid-summer, the Begur Music Festival takes place for three weeks. This festival has more than 40 editions, making it the oldest and most established festival in the whole Girona region. Shortly after, in August, the two famous Cantades d’Havaneres (Havanera singing sessions) are held, one in Plaça Esteve i Cruañas and the other on Sa Riera Beach.
Next, on the first weekend of September, the town hosts a fair called Fira d’Indians (Indian Fair), featuring products from overseas, music, and craft demonstrations. This fair celebrates Begur’s historical relationship with Cuba and revives that period of its history. Later, at the end of September, the Festa Major de Santa Reparada is celebrated in honor of one of the town’s patrons.
Finally, and no less important, in October, the Begur Costa Brava International Film Festival takes place. This event specializes in the comedy genre and also includes activities such as concerts and exhibitions for all audiences.
Best Time to Visit the Town
The best times to visit the town of Begur are three. Firstly, during the spring season, in the months of April or May, to enjoy the good weather and the low influx of tourists. Additionally, two notable festivals of the town. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy music, August would be the best time; although there will be a large number of people in the area. Finally, in the month of September, it is another good time thanks to the consistent good weather and the less crowded beaches.
Must-Do Activities
After getting to know a bit more about this town, we present a list of the must-do activities:
- Visit the Carmen Amaya viewpoint
- Take a swim in Sa Tuna
- Explore the “casas indianas”
- Taste the rockfish
- Enjoy the Havanera singing sessions
How to Get There
To access Begur by car, you will have to take the C-35 shortcut towards the C-31, heading to Palamós. Later, you will need to take the road GI-653 towards Begur. The travel time from Barcelona is about 1-2 hours, from Lleida is 3 hours, and from Girona is 1 hour.
By bus, you will find the Barcelona Nord-Begur route, which operates daily with departures approximately every 2 hours. From Lleida and Tarragona, the best option is to take transportation to Barcelona and then take the aforementioned bus. From Girona, the best alternative is to take the bus to Palafrugell and then take the direct line to Begur.
By train, you will find the nearest station at Flancà, 31 km away, and Girona, 50 km away, with more connection options. However, for both stations, you will need to take a bus to reach Begur, making a transfer in Palafrugell, as there is no direct line.
If you arrive by plane, the nearest airports by car are Girona Airport (1 hour) and Barcelona Airport (1-2 hours).
