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.