Fun Facts

The Costa Brava region has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with evidence of human settlements dating back over 5,000 years. Ancient Iberian tribes left their mark through megalithic monuments scattered across the landscape.

Costa Brava means "Wild Coast" or "Rugged Coast" in Spanish. The name was coined by journalist Ferran Agulló in 1908 and perfectly describes the dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters of this stunning coastline.

The surrealist artist Salvador Dalí was born in Figueres, just 30 minutes from Cabanyes. His famous Theatre-Museum in Figueres is the largest surrealist object in the world and attracts over a million visitors annually.

The Costa Brava enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year with mild winters and warm summers. The Tramontana wind, which can reach speeds of 100 km/h, helps keep the air fresh and the skies crystal clear.

The Medes Islands, located just off the coast, are one of the most important marine reserves in the Western Mediterranean. The protected waters are home to over 1,400 species of marine life.

The ancient Greek and Roman city of Empúries is one of the most important archaeological sites in Spain. Founded in 575 BC, it was the gateway for Greek and Roman civilization to the Iberian Peninsula.

The region around Palafrugell was historically one of the world's largest cork producers. The Cork Museum in Palafrugell tells the fascinating story of this industry that shaped the local economy for centuries.

The Costa Brava is home to El Celler de Can Roca in Girona, which has been named the best restaurant in the world multiple times. The region boasts numerous Michelin-starred restaurants celebrating Catalan cuisine.

The inland areas feature beautifully preserved medieval villages like Pals, Peratallada, and Monells. These stone villages with their narrow streets and ancient walls transport visitors back in time.

The medieval Castell de Calonge dates back to the 10th century and dominates the old town. Originally built as a defensive fortress, it has been expanded over centuries and now hosts cultural events and the famous summer music festival.

Calonge de Sant Antoni is actually two distinct areas: the historic inland village of Calonge with its medieval charm, and the coastal Sant Antoni de Calonge with its beautiful beaches and modern marina.

The iconic Torre Valentina is a 16th-century watchtower built to defend against pirate attacks. It stands guard over one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline and is now a symbol of the area.

The ancient coastal path Camí de Ronda connects Sant Antoni de Calonge to neighboring towns. Originally used by guards watching for smugglers, it now offers spectacular walking routes along dramatic clifftops and hidden coves.

Every summer, the Costa Brava celebrates Habaneras - traditional sea shanties brought back by sailors from Cuba. Calonge and nearby Palamós host atmospheric evening concerts where locals sing these nostalgic songs while drinking cremat (flaming rum).

Sant Antoni de Calonge seamlessly connects with Platja d'Aro along the coast, creating a continuous beachfront promenade. Together they form one of the most popular resort areas on the Costa Brava.

The beaches of Sant Antoni de Calonge are famous for their Mediterranean pine forests that grow right down to the sand, providing natural shade and filling the air with the scent of pine on warm summer days.

Sant Antoni de Calonge maintains its fishing heritage with traditional fishing boats still launching from the beach. The local fish auction at nearby Palamós is one of the most important on the Mediterranean coast.

The Massís de les Gavarres mountain range rises behind Calonge, offering hiking trails through cork oak forests. This protected natural area is home to wild boar, eagles, and over 1,000 species of plants.