Current as of: April 24, 2024 - 18:06
Coastal Walks of Catalunya Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Guided Group, Private Group Adventures
- Destination: Spain
- Programmes: Walking & Trekking
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Activity Level:
2 out of 7 - Leisurely / Moderate
- 7 Days: Flight Inclusive
- 7 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 16+
- Trip Code: TSC
Trip Overview
Track the magnificent Wild Coast on a picturesque walking week in Spain
Spanning an untamed stretch of northeastern Spain, the Costa Brava is a golden sweep of hidden coves, peaceful fishing villages and some of the best beaches in the country. In short, the ideal destination for a week of coastal walking. With our expert tour leader guiding the way, we set out on foot to discover the highlights – medieval towns, pretty fishing communities and a showreel of coastal vistas – while also stopping at a vineyard for a wine tasting and Salvador Dali’s summer house. Starting and ending in the electric seaside city of Barcelona also allows us to enjoy a touch of culture without getting too swept up in the bustle.
At a Glance
- Six nights at three-star hotels
- Five days of walking
- Group normally 6 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
- Low altitude throughout
- Well-marked trails and paths
- Travel by private air-conditioned minibus
- Option to travel by train to your adventure
Highlights
- Marvel at the highlights of Barcelona
- Enjoy picturesque views from the Sant Pere church in Pals
- Sip the local produce at Finca Bell Lloc, an idyllic vineyard and winery
- Spot wildlife in the vital animal habitat of Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park
- Visit Salvador Dali's quirky summer house
Is This Trip for You?
This trip is rated Activity Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate). For more on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page.
There are five days of walking. The terrain and path type will vary but most are good-quality coastal paths and gravel tracks. The walks are not technically difficult; however, you need to cover distances of up to 10mi (16km) so a basic level of fitness is required. Anyone with a reasonable level of fitness should be comfortable with the daily distances and height gained.
Adult min age: 16
Min group size: 6
Max group size: 16
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Barcelona
- End City: Barcelona
Land Only Itinerary
Fly to Barcelona; transfer to hotel
We fly from London to Barcelona, the seaside capital of Catalunya and a dream destination for art lovers, shoppers, foodies and more. This evening, we get to know each other a little better with a trip briefing and our first meal as a group.
Accommodation: Catalonia Sagrada Familia (or similar)
Start Barcelona
The adventure begins in Barcelona, the seaside capital of Catalunya and a dream destination for art lovers, shoppers, foodies and more. This evening, we get to know each other a little better with a trip briefing and our first meal as a group.
Accommodation: Catalonia Sagrada Familia (or similar)
Barcelona city tour; transfer to Begur; circular coastal walk
After breakfast, we have a quick tour of Barcelona stopping at: La Rambla, a landmark avenue of stalls and street entertainers; La Boqueria, a sensation for the senses with a multitude of market traders selling fresh produce; the 195ft (60m) tall Christopher Columbus statue; the magnificent Barcelona Cathedral; and the Gothic Quarter.
We then take a private transfer to Begur, a medieval town crowned by a hilltop stone castle. On arrival, we have lunch at one of the many great restaurants near our hotel. Afterwards, we being our walking with a circular route – a fantastic introduction to the dramatic landscape of the Costa Brava, taking in secluded coves, fishing villages and rugged cliffs.
Accommodation: Hotel Rosa (or similar)
Walk to Pals
This morning, we walk directly from our hotel to the picturesque town of Pals, where we can admire the restored gothic architecture and the Torre de les Hores, a 50ft (15m) tall stone tower that was once attached to a castle but has now become a symbol of the city. From here, we wander through the winding narrow streets to the small gothic church of Sant Pere (which was built using stones from the old Pals castle) for breath-taking panoramic views. We also have lunch in Pals, a good chance to sample the local paella recipe.
There will be free time this afternoon and we recommend exploring the old quarter in Begur, visiting the medieval castle, the church, the 16th-century defensive towers and the cultural centre.
Accommodation: Hotel Rosa (or similar)
Coastal fishing villages and visit to a winery
From Begur, we walk south following the coast, taking in the stunning landscape and wandering through a trio of coastal towns: Tamariu, Llafranc, and Calella de Palafrugell. We are greeted by fantastic views of the shore, with turquoise waters and wild scenery. The route today is mostly on undulating coastal paths. From Calella de Palafrugell, we take a private transfer to Finca Bell Lloc, an idyllic vineyard and winery where we enjoy a wine tasting. Relaxed, we take a private transfer back to Begur.
Accommodation: Hotel Rosa (or similar)
Visit Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park
This morning, we take a one-hour private transfer to Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park, a vital wetland and habitat for a range of animals and plant life. It’s home to a large number of reptiles (toad-headed turtles, three-toed skinks, water snakes), amphibians (various frogs, marbled newts), fish, mammals (rabbits, weasels, badgers, fallow deer), and, of course, birds both permeant residents and migratory. After our walk, we take a private 45-minute transfer to the coastal village of Cadaqués, where we stay for the last two nights.
This afternoon, we have free time. We recommend exploring Cadaqués, one of the most charming towns in Catalunya with its seafront promenade, cobblestone streets, and white houses. Alternatively, if weather permits, you can chose to visit one of the beaches near the city centre and enjoy a dip in the sea.
Accommodation: Hotel Octavia (or similar)
Cadaqués; visit to Dali's summer house and Cap de Creus walk
Today, we walk directly from our hotel and head to the summer house of artist Salvador Dali, a fascinating building decorated with surrealist artwork and furniture. From here, we can enjoy the olive gardens and fantastic Mediterranean Sea views. Afterwards, we set off for Cap de Creus and its lighthouse, our last coastal walk. On our way, we discover more pristine coves and wander around the narrow streets and picturesque waterfront of Cadaqués.
In the evening, we have our farewell group dinner in a sea-view restaurant, an excellent chance to relive our adventures together.
Accommodation: Hotel Octavia (or similar)
Transfer to Barcelona; fly home
The trip ends after breakfast and we transfer back to Barcelona Airport for the departure flight. Of course, if you’d like to spend more time exploring, speak to your sales representative about extending your trip with a stay at our Barcelona hotel.
End Cadaques; transfer to Barcelona airport
Our adventure ends with a transfer from Cadaques to Barcelona Airport. If you’ve still got the appetite for a bit more exploration, speak to your sales representative to book further nights in our Barcelona hotel.
Ascents, descents and distances
All ascents, descents and distances listed above have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders, in many cases with satellite-based mapping software. Please note, different GPS measuring devices can give differing results, particularly on winding paths or in mountainous terrain. Measurements stated throughout these trips notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated will vary depending on the pace of your group.
Accommodation
Three-star hotels in Barcelona, Begur and Cadaques
We spend six nights in three-star hotels, each chosen for their comfort and location. Below are the hotels we typically use:
Barcelona: Catalonia Sagrada Familia (night 1)
This three-star hotel has a lounger-lined dipping pool, ideal for a post-flight refresher. The rooms are modern and unfussy, while the snack bar – serving tapas and a selection of bartender-mixed cocktails – is the perfect spot to mingle with the group.
Begur: Hotel Rosa (nights 2-4)
Enjoy views of Begur Castle from the terrace or mingle in the games room at this 21-room hotel. A town centre location makes this retreat perfect for exploring the best of Begur.
Cadaques: Hotel Octavia (nights 5-6)
Hotel Octavia enjoys a prime location, a two-minute walk from Platja Gran beach, where you will find a monument to Salvador Dali and a string of bars. When you’re not out exploring, relax in your light, airy room.
Single supplement from £ 330
Food & Drink
All breakfasts are included and will be continental with cold cheese, meats and bread, plus pastries, tea and coffee.
Vegetarians: While a meat-and-fish diet is the norm in Spain, many vegetarians have not experienced any problems here. However, the choice of vegetarian and vegan meals may not be as extensive as you are used to.
Mealtimes in Spain are later than in many other countries; dinner is usually taken between 9pm and 9.30pm.
Transport
Transport, including airport transfers, is usually by private air-conditioned minibus.
Weather & Seasonality
The climate in Catalonia is Mediterranean with mild temperatures and most rain falling in winter, but possible throughout the year. Seasons are marked, with pleasant temperatures in the spring, summer and autumn. Heatwaves can hit between mid-June and September. For this reason, we avoid departures during the hottest months of July and August. In April and October, expect temperatures around 5C-25C (41F-77F). May, June and September are typically sunny and warm with temperatures of 10C-30C (50F-86F).
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Hotel Catalonia Sagrada Familia, C. d’Aragó, 08026 Barcelona, Spain
Phone: +34 932 45 89 05
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Barcelona Airport (BCN)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 30 minutes’ drive from the airport. Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Barcelona
Location end: Barcelona
What To Take
Essential Equipment
In addition to your ‘normal’ daily clothes, you will need the following:
- Daypack (25-30 litres)
- Large refillable water bottle
- Traditional or lightweight walking boots with good ankle support and strong soles
- Waterproof/windproof jacket (preferably GoreTex) and waterproof trousers (pants)
- Sunglasses
- Warm two-season jacket or sweater/fleece
- Sun hat, sunscreen and lip salve
- Sandals or slippers for indoors
Please note, tap water is safe to drink in the area, which means all you need to do is bring a bottle to refill at the hotel. Please add this to your packing list as this will save on wasteful plastic bottles.
Optional Equipment
- Warm hat and gloves for departures in spring and autumn
- Walking poles
Practical Information
Passport
Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.
Visa
Spain
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Spain. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/spain
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/spain
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Spain.html
Vaccinations and Health
Spain
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus and rabies. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
If you’re a UK citizen, please note that your UK-issued European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) are still valid and offer the same cover as the Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) in the EU. This gives you medical care at a reduced cost, and in some cases for free, in many European countries, but should not be considered a substitute for adequate insurance. Once your EHIC has expired, replace it with a GHIC.
Local Time
Spain's time zone: Europe/Madrid (UTC +02:00)
Electricity
Spain's electricity: Plug type F (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
Spain's currency: Euros (EUR)
ATM Availability
There are cash points available in most towns along the route and most places take credit and debit cards, though cash is generally easier for smaller payments.
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
We recommend you allow approximately €50 per day for meals, coffees and other drinks. So approximately €300-€350 overall; however, this depends on which restaurants you choose.
Local taxes: Catalonia has introduced a tourist tax for non-residents. The local administration oversees the tax, which will be collected by the accommodation provider at check-in or check-out. This fee varies depending on the hotel category, the season and number of days of stay. It is usually between €1 and €5 per person per night. For this trip, please allow approximately €10 for the week.
Tipping
Although optional, a tip for the leader at the end of the trip is greatly appreciated. As a guideline, we recommend a contribution between €20 and €25 per client per week. It is also customary to leave a tip for the driver. This can be handed to your leader at the end of the trip. For your driver, we recommend approximately €15-€20 per person.
People, Places & Planet
We work hard to create trips that have a positive impact on the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Learn more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.
Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:
People
How this trip helps improve life for local communities.
- Local guides keep you well informed about local traditions and cultural-social sensitivities.
- This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally owned hotels, restaurants, and other enterprises, and by championing locally produced food wherever possible.
- Read more about our other initiatives
Places
How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.
- By travelling in a small group, we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.
- We work with our partners on the ground to proactively reduce waste; this includes eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles by providing refills for reusable bottles.
- We rewild 1,075sqft (100sqm) per passenger to compensate for all trip and flight emissions.
- Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here, including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels with us.
Planet
How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.
- Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
- Our local partner is a member of the Climate Action Leaders in Travel Community and have made the Climate Action Leaders in Travel Pledge
- As this is a walking holiday, it provides a low-impact way of exploring the destination.
- Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.
Tips for sustainable travel on this trip
- Leave no trace: We do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
- Plastic waste reduction: Please bring a reusable water bottle on this trip, also consider avoiding single-use hotel toiletries, which generate a large amount of plastic waste.
Important Information
Water safety
This trip includes time by a lake, river or sea, where there may be opportunities to swim. You should always seek local advice before deciding whether to swim. Open-water or wild swim spots should be treated with extreme caution. Information on how to keep yourself safe while swimming is shown here.
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.