Welcome to Begur
Let’s get one thing straight: if you’ve never heard of Begur, you’re not alone. Nestled in the rugged hills of the Costa Brava and cloaked in pine trees and legends, Begur is one of those places that’s managed to dodge the tourist bus madness (just about) while quietly being one of the most picturesque spots in all of Spain.
It’s got beaches that look like movie sets, a history full of pirates and colonial riches, cobbled streets that practically beg for an Instagram post, and tapas that will ruin you for all future tapas. And the best part? It’s still gloriously Spanish – in all the right ways.
Tucked away amongst pine-forested hills and perched just a stone’s throw from some of Costa Brava’s most spectacular coves, Begur charms with its cobbled lanes, colorful colonial architecture, and spectacular coves with crystal-clear waters. This enchanting medieval town, with its unmistakable Cuban colonial influence and dramatic clifftop castle ruins, offers a perfect blend of historical intrigue and Mediterranean bliss that feels worlds away from the typical Spanish resort scene.
Unlike many Costa Brava destinations that have surrendered to mass tourism, Begur has managed to preserve its authentic character whilst offering visitors an extraordinary array of experiences. From secret coves accessible only by foot to charming colonial mansions that tell tales of 19th-century Cuban fortune-seekers, this remarkable town serves up everything you never knew you needed for the perfect Spanish coastal escape.
What Makes Begur Special
Begur’s unique charm lies in its fascinating duality. The town itself sits about 2 kilometres inland from the coast, crowned by the ruins of an 11th-century castle that offers panoramic views stretching from the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean. The historic centre is a delightful maze of narrow cobbled streets lined with stone houses, many displaying the distinctive colonial architecture brought back by Begurencs who made their fortunes in 19th-century Cuba.
This Cuban connection isn’t just architectural – it’s cultural DNA that permeates the town. Every September, locals celebrate the Fira d’Indians, a three-day festival featuring Caribbean rhythms, habaneras, and overseas products that transforms the medieval streets into a Cuban carnival. The bond is so strong that you’ll find colonial mansions converted into boutique hotels, allowing visitors to sleep in authentic pieces of this transatlantic history.
But Begur’s real magic unfolds along its dramatic coastline. The municipality boasts approximately 20 kilometres of coast featuring eight distinct coves, each with its own personality. From the postcard-perfect fishing village of Sa Tuna to the nudist-friendly Illa Roja with its striking red rock formations, Begur’s beaches offer something for every type of traveller.
Best Time to Visit Begur
The optimal time to experience Begur depends entirely on what you’re seeking from your Costa Brava adventure.
Peak Season (July-August)
Summer brings Begur to life with beach clubs operating, restaurants extending their terraces, and the town buzzing with activity. The weather is reliably warm and perfect for swimming, with sea temperatures reaching their peak. However, this is also when accommodation prices soar, parking becomes a nightmare, and the most beautiful coves can feel uncomfortably crowded. August, in particular, can be swelteringly hot for hiking and exploring.
Sweet Spot Months (May-June, September)
These shoulder months offer the perfect Begur experience. The weather remains warm enough for swimming and sunbathing, but the oppressive summer heat hasn’t yet arrived (or has departed). Accommodation rates drop significantly, parking is manageable, and you’ll have those Instagram-worthy coves largely to yourself. September can be particularly magical, with warm sea temperatures and the added bonus of the Fira d’Indians festival.
Off-Season Adventures (October-April)
Whilst many beach-focused businesses close during these months, Begur transforms into something quite different but equally compelling. This is prime hiking weather along the Camí de Ronda coastal paths, with crisp air and stunning visibility for photographs. Accommodation rates plummet, and you’ll experience authentic local life without the tourist veneer. The town’s excellent restaurants remain open, and cosy evenings in colonial-mansion hotels become particularly appealing.
Weather Patterns
Begur enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Spring arrives early, with pleasant temperatures from April onwards. Autumn extends well into November, often providing surprisingly good beach weather. Winter temperatures rarely drop below 10°C, making year-round visits entirely feasible for the appropriately dressed traveller.
Getting to Begur
From Barcelona (133km)
By Car (Recommended) The drive from Barcelona takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes via the AP-7 motorway, followed by scenic country roads through the Empordà region. This route offers flexibility for exploring other Costa Brava destinations and is essential for accessing Begur’s more remote coves. The journey itself is part of the experience, with rolling hills, medieval villages, and glimpses of the Mediterranean creating anticipation for your arrival.
By Bus A direct bus from Estació del Nord (Barcelona) takes 2 h 20 mins to get to Begur. During summer months, buses depart every two hours and cost approximately €22 one way. Winter service reduces to 2-3 buses daily, making this option less convenient but still viable for car-free travellers. The bus journey showcases the changing landscape from urban Barcelona to rural Catalonia.
By Train + Bus Take the high-speed train from Barcelona to Girona (38 minutes), then catch a bus to Begur. However, there’s only one direct bus daily from Girona, departing at 5:15 PM, making this option suitable only for specific travel schedules. Total journey time is approximately 2 hours 48 minutes. Check the Omio app for bus and train times and book tickets together.
Guided Tours For day-trippers seeking a stress-free experience, guided tours departing from both Barcelona and Girona offer comprehensive Costa Brava experiences, typically including Begur alongside Calella de Palafrugell and the medieval village of Pals.
From Girona (53km)
By Car The 53-minute drive from Girona to Begur traverses some of Catalonia’s most beautiful countryside, passing through traditional farming communities and offering glimpses of the Pyrenees on clear days.
By Bus Multiple daily buses connect Girona and Begur, though only one direct service operates (departing Girona at 5:15 PM). Other services require connections, extending journey time to 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes.
Airport Access
Girona Airport serves as the closest international airport, approximately 45 minutes by car. Barcelona Airport requires the full Barcelona-to-Begur journey but offers significantly more international flight options. Check Holiday Taxis if you prefer not to rent a car, but just want a transfer instead.
Parking in Begur: A Practical Guide
Parking in Begur requires strategy, particularly during peak season. The town’s medieval street layout wasn’t designed for modern vehicles, creating challenges that savvy visitors can navigate with proper planning.
Town Centre Parking
The historic centre offers several established car parks, both free and paid. The main municipal car park near the town centre provides the most convenient access to restaurants, shops, and the castle climb. However, spaces fill quickly during summer mornings, making early arrival essential.
Free parking can be found along some residential streets, but these spots require a walk uphill to reach the town centre. Respect local parking restrictions and be mindful of resident-only zones, which are actively enforced.
Beach Parking Challenges
The parking lots on the beaches are small, get really busy (especially in high season), and are expensive (3€ for 1h!!!). Each cove typically offers a small car park that fills rapidly after 10 AM during summer months. Prices can reach €3 per hour, making day-long beach visits expensive.
The Smart Alternative: Beach Shuttle Service
We recommend taking the shuttle bus from Begur to the coves. You’ll save money (it only costs 1€), headaches, and time. This brilliant service operates throughout the day, connecting the town centre with the three main beach areas: Sa Riera, Sa Tuna, and Aiguablava. The buses run frequently during summer months and offer a stress-free way to explore multiple coves without the parking hassle.
Parking Strategy Tips
- Arrive at beaches before 10 AM or after 4 PM for better parking availability
- Use the town centre as your base and take advantage of the shuttle bus service
- Consider staying in accommodation with dedicated parking
- Park in Sa Riera (the largest beach car park) and walk to adjacent coves via coastal paths
Accessibility for Limited Mobility
Begur’s medieval heritage and dramatic coastal topography create natural accessibility challenges, but thoughtful planning can still yield rewarding experiences for visitors with limited mobility.
Town Centre Accessibility
The historic centre’s cobbled streets and steep inclines present difficulties for wheelchair users and those with walking challenges. However, the main commercial streets have been improved with smoother surfaces, and many restaurants offer street-level access with outdoor terraces.
The climb to Begur Castle involves steep, uneven paths that are unsuitable for wheelchairs or those with mobility issues. However, the castle car park provides excellent views across the countryside without requiring the final ascent.
Beach Access Challenges
Most of Begur’s famous coves require descending steep paths or staircases, making them inaccessible for wheelchair users. However, Platja de Sa Riera, the municipality’s largest beach, offers the most accessible option with:
- Road access nearly to the beach level
- Relatively flat approaches
- Seasonal beach facilities including accessible toilets
- Beach wheelchair services available during summer months
Accessible Accommodation Options
Several hotels offer accessible rooms and facilities:
- Modern hotels in the town centre typically provide lift access and accessible bathrooms
- Beachfront hotels like Hotel Aigua Blava offer easier beach access
- Many ground-floor apartment rentals can accommodate mobility needs
Transportation Accessibility
The beach shuttle bus service can accommodate some mobility aids, though space is limited during peak periods. Taxis can provide door-to-door service to most locations, though advance booking is recommended during summer months.
Recommended Accessible Activities
- Dining at street-level restaurants with outdoor terraces
- Exploring the main commercial streets of the town centre
- Visiting Sa Riera beach during less crowded periods
- Enjoying sunset views from accessible viewpoints near the castle car park
Best Viewpoints for Photography
Begur offers photographers a treasure trove of stunning vistas, from dramatic coastal panoramas to intimate village scenes. Here are the essential viewpoints for capturing this Costa Brava gem.
Begur Castle: The Ultimate Panorama
The ruins of Begur’s 11th-century castle provide the town’s most spectacular viewpoint. You can spot the Medes Islands, the Cap de Creus, Costa Brava’s countryside, and even the Pyrenees from there! The 15-minute uphill walk rewards photographers with 360-degree views encompassing sea, mountains, and medieval townscape.
Best Photography Times:
- Sunrise: Dramatic lighting over the Mediterranean with the Medes Islands silhouetted
- Golden Hour: Warm light illuminating the town’s colonial architecture
- Blue Hour: Castle ruins silhouetted against twilight sky
Sa Tuna: Coastal Perfection
This picture-perfect fishing village provides Costa Brava’s most iconic shots. The combination of colourful houses, traditional fishing boats, and crystal-clear water creates postcard-worthy compositions from multiple angles.
Key Shot Locations:
- The small harbour with boats reflected in calm morning water
- Elevated positions along the coastal path for village overview shots
- Rock formations on either side of the cove for dramatic sea views
El Semàfor de Begur: Lighthouse Drama
El Semàfor de Begur, a lighthouse from 1891, currently disused. The building itself isn’t wowing, but the views are! This lighthouse location offers unobstructed coastal vistas perfect for wide-angle landscape photography and dramatic sunset shots.
Platja de l’Illa Roja: Rock Formation Magic
The striking red rock island that gives this beach its name creates unique photographic opportunities. Depending on the tide, you can find Illa Roja attached to the land or isolated, almost “floating” near the beach, offering two completely different compositions depending on your timing.
Puig de sa Guàrdia: Hidden Gem Viewpoint
The path ascends through residential areas, culminating at the hill Puig de sa Guàrdia. The views from here are incredible! This elevated position provides sweeping coastal panoramas often missed by casual visitors.
Platja Fonda: Intimate Cove Shots
Accessible via a steep 50-step descent, this secluded beach offers intimate compositions with dramatic cliff backdrops and turquoise water that seems to glow in the right light.
Photography Tips for Begur
- Early morning (7-9 AM) provides the best light and fewest crowds
- Polarising filters enhance the Mediterranean’s blue tones
- Bring a wide-angle lens for coastal panoramas and a telephoto for compressed village shots
- Check tide times for Illa Roja to capture your preferred composition
- Respect private property and local photography restrictions
Must-See Sights in Begur
Begur Castle (Castell de Begur)
The town’s crowning glory, these 11th-century castle ruins dominate Begur’s skyline and imagination. While only the outer walls remain, the structure provides crucial context for understanding the town’s strategic importance during medieval times. The climb to the castle takes about 15 minutes through residential streets and offers increasingly spectacular views with each step.
The castle’s elevated position made it perfect for spotting pirates and enemy ships – the same vantage point that now rewards visitors with some of Costa Brava’s most memorable panoramas. Information panels explain the castle’s history and help identify landmarks visible from this spectacular viewpoint.
Historic Town Centre and Colonial Architecture
Begur’s historic centre tells the fascinating story of 19th-century emigration and return. The Cuban connection began when economic hardship drove many locals to seek their fortunes in Cuba during the 1800s. Those who succeeded returned with exotic wealth and architectural ideas, creating the distinctive colonial mansions that define modern Begur.
The most notable colonial houses include Casa Bonaventura Caner Bataller, with its distinctive Cuban-style shutters and wraparound balconies, and Villa Rosita, showcasing tropical architectural elements adapted for Mediterranean living. Many of these mansions now serve as boutique hotels, allowing visitors to experience this unique architectural heritage firsthand.
Notable Colonial Buildings:
- Hotel Aiguaclara: A stylish hotel in an 1866 colonial mansion
- La Indiana de Begur: Boutique accommodation in an authentic colonial house
- Casa Vincke: Private residence showcasing typical Cuban-influenced design
- Can Pi de la Serra: Notable for its tropical garden and architectural details
Church of Sant Pere
This Gothic-style parish church anchors Begur’s spiritual life and provides architectural contrast to the colonial influences elsewhere in town. Dating from medieval times, the church features traditional Catalan Gothic elements and serves as a peaceful retreat from the town’s busier commercial areas.
16th-Century Defensive Towers
Scattered throughout the municipality, these cylindrical stone towers were built by locals to defend against pirate attacks that plagued the Costa Brava during the 16th century. Several towers remain in excellent condition and can be spotted during coastal walks or drives between coves.
The Coastal Path Network (Camí de Ronda)
Follow the various coastal footpaths, known as Camí de Ronda, in Begur and walk through pinewoods to find beautiful emerald coves and lookouts with breathtaking panoramic views. These ancient paths originally served coastal guards patrolling for smugglers and pirates but now provide hikers with access to some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful scenery.
Premier Coastal Walks:
Aiguablava to Aiguafreda via Sa Tuna (7.2km) This spectacular coastal hike showcases Begur’s diverse coastline, from dramatic cliffs to hidden coves. The path winds through pine forests, past secluded beaches like Platja Fonda, and culminates at the iconic fishing village of Sa Tuna. The blue water and the colourful houses make this cove iconic.
Key highlights include:
- Cala Maralet and Platja de Fornells: Small coves in the charming Fornells fishing district
- Platja Fonda: Serene beach reached by 50 stone steps, perfect for swimming and picnicking
- El Semàfor lighthouse: Historic 1891 lighthouse with panoramic views
- Sa Tuna village: Costa Brava’s most photogenic fishing village
Punta de la Creu to Platja del Racó (3km) This shorter walk focuses on beaches rather than dramatic cliffs, making it more accessible for families. The route passes through the Punta de la Creu marine reserve and concludes at one of Costa Brava’s most extensive beaches.
Highlights include:
- Cala s’Antiga: Secluded sandy cove perfect for peaceful swimming
- Platja de Sa Riera: Begur’s largest beach with full facilities
- Platja de l’Illa Roja: Unique beach featuring the striking red rock formation
- Platja del Racó: Extensive sandy beach extending towards L’Estartit
Begur’s Spectacular Coves and Beaches
Sa Tuna: The Crown Jewel
This was our favorite of the spots along the coast. After descending down the tiny road into this small village, we were smitten with the views. Sa Tuna represents everything magical about Costa Brava – a tiny fishing village where colourful houses tumble down to a pristine cove surrounded by pine-covered cliffs.
The village maintains its authentic character with traditional fishing boats bobbing in the small harbour and local fishermen still working from the beach. Two seasonal restaurants provide excellent seafood with waterfront views, though bringing a picnic allows for extended beach time without the expense.
What Makes Sa Tuna Special:
- Authentic fishing village atmosphere
- Excellent snorkelling opportunities among the rocky sections
- Coastal path connections to other coves
- Traditional Catalan fishing boat displays
- Seasonal shuttle bus service from Begur centre
Platja de l’Illa Roja: Natural Sculpture Garden
This extraordinary beach showcases nature’s artistic capabilities through its distinctive red rock island formation. L’Illa Roja, translated as Red Island, gets its name from the red rocky island on the sand. The geological composition creates a striking colour contrast against the typical Costa Brava palette of blue water and white sand.
The beach welcomes naturists, particularly towards its more secluded southern end, and the dramatic cliff backdrop provides natural privacy. Rock pools around the red island formation offer excellent opportunities for discovering Mediterranean marine life.
Platja Fonda: The Hidden Sanctuary
The stairs down are steep but worth it for these turquoise waters. There’s also a great spot to jump in from on the right side of the cove. This secluded beach requires commitment – a steep 50-step descent through pine forest – but rewards visitors with some of Costa Brava’s most pristine waters.
The beach’s isolation means no facilities, so come prepared with water, snacks, and sun protection. The dramatic cliff setting creates natural windbreaks and provides shade during different parts of the day.
Aiguablava: The Accessible Option
This was the busiest of all beaches with the most amenities. Aiguablava caters to visitors seeking comfort alongside natural beauty. The beach offers full facilities including restaurants, beach bars, equipment rental, and easier parking access.
While more crowded than Begur’s other coves, Aiguablava provides an excellent introduction to Costa Brava beach culture and serves as the starting point for several coastal hiking routes.
Cala d’Aigua Xelida: The Kayaker’s Paradise
A beautiful rocky cove with incredible colors. A lot of kayakers come through here to explore the steep walls. This dramatic cove showcases Costa Brava’s geological diversity with towering cliff walls and hidden cave systems accessible only by water.
The challenging access makes this cove perfect for adventure seekers willing to hike rough coastal paths or paddle from more accessible locations.
Sa Riera: The Family Beach
Begur’s largest beach provides the most comprehensive facilities and easiest access, making it ideal for families and extended beach days. The wide sandy beach offers space for everyone, even during peak season, and the beachfront restaurants provide convenient dining options.
Facilities at Sa Riera:
- Large car park (though still challenging during peak season)
- Multiple restaurants and beach bars
- Equipment rental (umbrellas, chairs, water sports gear)
- Lifeguard services during summer months
- Accessible facilities including adapted toilets
Water Sports and Activities
Snorkelling and Diving Adventures
The Begur area has around 20 km of coast and 8 beautiful coves that are very different from one another. This means there is plenty of marine life and seabed to discover! The crystal-clear Mediterranean waters and diverse underwater topography create exceptional conditions for exploring marine life.
Self-Guided Snorkelling Rocky sections of all major coves offer excellent snorkelling opportunities. Sa Tuna’s right side features numerous caves where marine life congregates, while the areas around Illa Roja provide interesting rock formations and fish-watching opportunities.
Professional Guidance Local operators like Anemone Tours offer guided snorkelling experiences with locals who know the coast intimately. For certified divers, Begur Dive provides guided dives to more advanced underwater locations.
Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Rent a SUP or a kayak at Sa Blava and discover Begur from a unique perspective. Stop whenever you please for a dip at sea and keep paddling to explore the many caves and coves in Begur. The protected coves and generally calm conditions make Begur perfect for paddle sports.
Recommended Water Routes:
- Sa Tuna to Aiguafreda: Moderate distance with beautiful scenery
- Aiguablava coastal exploration: Cave systems and hidden beaches
- Full-day adventures: Combining multiple coves with beach breaks
Boat Excursions
Aiguablava Boats offers both rental and guided excursions, providing access to otherwise unreachable coastal areas. Professional skippers share local knowledge about hidden caves, marine life, and the best spots for swimming and snorkelling.
Boat Trip Options:
- Half-day coastal exploration
- Full-day excursions including lunch
- Sunset trips with dramatic lighting
- Private charters for special occasions
Culinary Delights: Where to Eat in Begur
Begur’s culinary scene reflects both its coastal location and colonial heritage, creating a unique dining landscape that satisfies every palate and budget.
Fine Dining Experiences
Casa Juanita: Seafood Perfection The place is a culinary haven for seafood enthusiasts! They serve fresh Mediterranean fish and seafood prepared on the BBQ with tomatoes, onions, and potatoes. This local favourite showcases the best of Costa Brava’s fishing tradition with simply prepared, incredibly fresh seafood. The wood-fired preparation method enhances natural flavours while the octopus and fried sand eels have achieved legendary status among local food lovers.
Taverna Son Molas: Romantic Fine Dining An excellent place for a romantic night out or a dinner with friends when you want to get fancy. You’ll enjoy creative tapas and little plates with beautiful views of Begur’s castle. The elevated location provides stunning views while the creative small plates showcase modern Catalan cuisine techniques applied to traditional ingredients.
Hostal Sa Tuna: Seaside Elegance It’s labeled hostal but the restaurant is much more like fine dining. In fact, every table but one was reserved far in advance. This waterfront restaurant combines an unbeatable Sa Tuna location with sophisticated cuisine, making reservations essential during peak season.
Casual Dining Gems
Fitzroy Café: International Brunch Culture If you fancy a brunch or specialty coffee, head to Fitzroy Café. There, you’ll find all kinds of coffee, kombuchas, sandwiches, sweets, and delicious banana pancakes. This modern café brings international brunch culture to medieval Begur, perfect for leisurely mornings before beach adventures.
La Escalopa: German Comfort Food A German restaurant famous for its goulash and schnitzel. But also, for its friendly and warm host! This unexpected culinary cultural exchange adds variety to Begur’s dining scene while the welcoming atmosphere makes solo diners feel particularly welcome.
L’autèntic: Simple Pleasures The place to go for simple dishes such as burgers, toasts, or crepes. Sometimes the best meals are the simplest, and this local favourite delivers quality comfort food without pretension.
Beach Dining Options
Most coves offer seasonal restaurants with varying levels of sophistication. Sa Tuna features traditional seafood establishments, while Aiguablava provides more resort-style dining with international menus and cocktail services.
Hotel Aigua Blava Restaurant We came here for lunch with a beautiful view. It’s up-market, but the views are hard to beat. The combination of elevated beachfront location and quality cuisine justifies the premium pricing, particularly for special occasion meals.
Where to Stay in Begur
Begur offers accommodation options ranging from authentic colonial mansions to modern beachfront hotels, each providing a different perspective on this remarkable destination.
Historic Colonial Hotels
Hotel Aiguaclara A stylish hotel set in a colonial-style mansion from 1866, this property offers guests the chance to sleep within Begur’s fascinating Cuban heritage. The authentic architectural details and period furnishings create an immersive historical experience while modern amenities ensure contemporary comfort.
La Indiana de Begur A boutique hotel also in a colonial house, this intimate property showcases the finest examples of returned-emigrant architecture. Each room tells part of the story of Begur’s Cuban connection through carefully preserved architectural details and period-appropriate décor.
Contemporary Boutique Options
Cluc Hotel One hotel in town that did catch my eye in Begur was Cluc Hotel and would have been the one I would have chose if we went with a hotel. This modern property combines contemporary design with local materials and influences, creating a sophisticated base for exploring Begur.
La Bionda Hotel An adults-only property perfect for romantic getaways, offering elegant rooms and peaceful common areas. The central location provides easy access to restaurants and attractions while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere.
Beachfront Accommodation
Hotel Sa Tuna Located in Begur’s most picturesque coves, offers a serene escape from city life. Waking up steps from Sa Tuna’s perfect fishing village creates an unforgettable Costa Brava experience.
Hotel Aigua Blava These hotels, located in Begur’s most picturesque coves, offer a serene escape from city life. The beachfront location and full-service amenities make this ideal for guests prioritising beach access and water activities.
Family and Group Options
Apartment Rentals For families or groups, apartment rentals provide space and kitchen facilities for extended stays. Options range from beachfront properties in major coves to town centre locations with easy restaurant access.
Vacation Villas Larger groups can choose from spectacular vacation villas offering privacy, swimming pools, and often stunning views over the coastline or countryside.
Budget-Conscious Choices
Hostalet dels Indians The family-run Hostalet dels Indians offers excellent value while maintaining quality standards and local character.
Hostal Sa Rascassa The beach hotel Hostal Sa Rascassa are great choices for budget-conscious travellers who don’t want to sacrifice location for affordability.
Getting Around Begur
The Beach Shuttle System
The service runs throughout the day and is operated by a bus. It covers the three main beach areas: Sa Riera, Sa Tuna, and Aiguablava. This efficient public transport system eliminates parking stress and provides an eco-friendly way to explore Begur’s coastline.
Service Details:
- Operates daily during summer months
- Reduced winter schedule
- €1 per journey (significantly cheaper than beach parking)
- Regular departures from town centre
- Connects all major beaches and coves
Walking Distances
If you don’t have a car, walking from the town centre to the coves is an option, although it’s pretty far and the path is very hilly. While possible, the distances and elevation changes make walking less practical for most visitors, particularly when carrying beach equipment.
Approximate Walking Times from Town Centre:
- Sa Tuna: 45 minutes (steep downhill)
- Aiguablava: 35 minutes (moderate difficulty)
- Sa Riera: 25 minutes (easiest walk)
Cycling Options
The hilly terrain makes cycling challenging for casual riders, though the coastal roads offer spectacular scenery for those with appropriate fitness levels and equipment.
Taxi Services
Local taxi services provide convenient transport, particularly useful for evening restaurant visits or when carrying significant beach equipment. Advance booking is recommended during peak season.
Day Trip Ideas from Begur
Begur’s central Costa Brava location makes it an excellent base for exploring the region’s other treasures.
Medieval Villages
Pals (15 minutes) This perfectly preserved medieval village offers narrow stone streets, ancient walls, and spectacular views over rice fields towards the sea.
Peratallada (20 minutes) Another medieval gem featuring a remarkable moated castle and stone streets that haven’t changed in centuries.
Coastal Towns
Calella de Palafrugell (10 minutes) The epitome of Costa Brava charm with traditional fishing boats, waterfront restaurants, and the famous Cap Roig botanical gardens.
Cadaqués (45 minutes) Salvador Dalí’s beloved white village on the wild Cap de Creus peninsula, offering art museums and dramatic landscapes.
Natural Attractions
Medes Islands Marine Reserve Visible from Begur Castle, these protected islands offer world-class diving and snorkelling opportunities accessible by boat from nearby L’Estartit.
Cap de Creus Natural Park The easternmost point of Spain features dramatic rocky landscapes, hidden coves, and connections to Salvador Dalí’s artistic inspiration.
Cultural Excursions
Girona (45 minutes) This magnificent city combines Roman ruins, medieval quarters, and modern culture. Game of Thrones filming locations add contemporary appeal to ancient streets.
Dalí Triangle Visit the three museums dedicated to Salvador Dalí: his house in Port Lligat, the theatre-museum in Figueres, and the castle in Púbol.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Fira d’Indians (September)
Every September, people in Begur celebrate the Fira d’Indians. It’s a 3-day festival where overseas products, Caribbean-style rhythms, and Habaneras are the main protagonists. This unique celebration showcases Begur’s Cuban connections through music, food, dance, and cultural displays that transform the medieval town into a Caribbean carnival.
The festival features:
- Live habanera performances in the town square
- Caribbean food stalls and Cuban rum tastings
- Traditional dance demonstrations
- Historical exhibitions about emigration and return
- Colonial house tours and architectural walks
Summer Concert Series
The castle ruins and various venues throughout Begur host an enchanting summer concert series from June through August. These intimate performances range from classical guitar recitals to contemporary folk music, taking advantage of the town’s stunning natural acoustics and dramatic backdrops. The medieval castle provides a particularly magical setting for evening concerts, where music echoes across the Costa Brava landscape under starlit skies.
Medieval Festival (August)
During the first weekend of August, Begur transforms into a living medieval village. The streets fill with costumed merchants, knights, and troubadours as the town celebrates its historical roots. Artisan markets showcase traditional crafts, while medieval banquets are served in the castle grounds. This family-friendly event includes jousting demonstrations, falconry displays, and workshops where visitors can learn ancient crafts like blacksmithing and pottery.
Final Thoughts – Is Begur Worth It?
Absolutely. Begur is the kind of place that still feels authentic. It’s got the Mediterranean sparkle without the Costa del Sol crowds, it’s dripping in history, culture and sunshine, and it’s the kind of town where you’ll find yourself slowing down and actually enjoying things. Radical, I know.
Whether you’re exploring ancient castles, pottering along coastal trails, or simply losing hours at a beachside taverna with cold wine and hot anchovies, Begur quietly steals your heart – and frankly, I’m not sure you’ll want it back.
