Costa Brava, or the 'wild coast' is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Attracting visitors since the 50s, it comprises a series of beach resorts located on the northern Mediterranean coast of Spain, in the Catalonia region. Stretching from the border with France to some 60km from Barcelona there are a great many options of both extensive family resorts and more secluded coves and villages. The great many Costa Brava Hotels are perfectly placed for guests to take full advantage of the attractions on offer.
Before being developed into a major world tourists resort the Costa Brava was home to many small fishing villages. While some of these remain largely untouched, development has continued at a fast pace around them to provide extensive tourist and leisure facilities which make the most of the stunning beaches and natural environment. A Costa Brava hotel invariably means one in close proximity to the beach.
Mindful of the impact of such development on the beautiful surrounds of the area, environmental protection measures have been undertaken to preserve a wide range of natural habitats and micro-climates, which include the first maritime nature reserve in Spain, the Illes Medes, and the marshland wildfowl reserve at L'Emporda. A balance has been struck which protects the area's natural wonders yet meets the demands of the many visitors each year who enjoy the excellent sun, sea, and sand holidays.
Spain is well equipped for tourism and this is as evident in the coastal resorts as anywhere. A bewildering array of facilities and services are geared specifically for visitors and Spanish hospitality is at the middle of any holiday experience. While much of the Costa Brava hotel and resort life may not be considered authentically Spanish in terms of the rich culture of the major towns and cities, beach holidays have become as synonymous with Spain as bull fights and Flamenco and it is something the Spanish do very well indeed.
The main resorts of the Costa Brava are Blanes, Tossa de Mar, and Lloret de Mar and each has ample opportunities to sample some excellent beach life and activities. Blanes has some 4km of beaches, the most popular of which are Blanes Beach and S'Albanell Beach, although steep rugged cliffs and secluded coves are there too for those who wish to explore them. Tossa de Mar is an ancient town with a mediaeval castle at the end of Tossa Beach and the local fishing supplies much of the surrounding area with fresh seafood.
The largest resort of Costa Brava is Lloret de Mar, based around the ancient town of the same name, which is the second largest in Catalonia. The town beach is one of the best in Costa Brava, with 2km of fine sand and a further coarse sandy beach is the longest on the coast. The mediaeval fort of Saint Joan's Castle overlooks the town and offers a glimpse into the past of what is now a vibrant town and resort with an extensive selection of bars, clubs, pubs, cafes, restaurants and other leisure and entertainment facilities which cater for large tourist numbers.
The Costa Brava is the archetypal package holiday destination and this still remains the most popular way for couples and families to spend their summer vacations within the resorts. With the accommodation, meals, and evening entertainment all included it allows guests the freedom to simply relax and enjoy the facilities on offer. Most of the Costa Brava hotels are family oriented and will provide children's entertainment, clubs, and family activities and excursions.
Many of the Costa Brava hotels will also have a range of other leisure facilities which will undoubtedly include swimming pools and also, in the larger resort hotels, often sports facilities such as tennis and fully equipped fitness suites. There may also be boutiques and other shops within the hotel selling an assortment of souvenirs or other goods.
While many hotels cater specifically for families on package holidays, an excellent alternative choice of Costa Brava hotel is to opt for one of the many luxury resort developments. A luxury Costa Brava hotel, in addition to offering all the services and amenities expected from luxury accommodation anywhere, such as air conditioning and 24 hour room service, will also have more space and opportunity for peace and quiet, which in the Costa Brava can be at a premium. Luxury Costa Brava hotels will also likely have a more extensive range of facilities on offer which may include access to exclusive beach activities such as water-sports, boat trips and sailing.
During the day time the Costa Brava is all about the beach life and with many miles of beach to choose from there is always plenty of different beach environments. While some may choose to simply soak up the sun, others will indulge in some excellent fun activities in the sea, while others will combine some beach time with shopping trips in the towns, lunch in one the many fine cafes, or exploring the wonderful natural surrounds.
At night time the Costa Brava is a whole different experience. While there are many entertainment options open for families and those who prefer a more laid back approach to nightlife, there is also a vast array of lively points, popular with the 18-30s set, in which clubs, pubs and night time revelry take over. Costa Brava hotels will have all the necessary advice and information for guests to plan their day and night activities.
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