Experience Blanes – Dream Beaches, Old Town & Nature on the Costa Brava
Blanes is a charming holiday destination on the Costa Brava, perfectly blending tradition and modernity. Long sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and idyllic coves with crystal-clear waters make it ideal for families, couples, and beach lovers. Visitors can enjoy a perfect combination of sun, culture, nature, and family-friendly amenities.
Beaches & Coastline
The picturesque promenade in Blanes ends at the northern peninsula with the impressive ruins of the Castell de Sant Joan from the 11th century. From here, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Costa Brava. The sandy beach stretches over 4 km, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely walks.
Top Beaches in Blanes:
- Platja de Blanes – centrally located, fine sand, family-friendly, with restaurants & cafés.
- Platja de S’Abanell – the longest beach (approx. 2 km), excellent facilities, and water sports options.
- Cala Sant Francesc / Cala Bona – scenic cove with pine trees, ideal for snorkeling.
- Cala Punta de Santa Anna – small rocky cove, quiet, popular with locals.
- Cala Treumal – natural southern cove with pine trees & rocks, close to the Marimurtra Botanical Garden.
Old Town & Culinary Delights
Only about 6 km from Lloret de Mar, Blanes has retained its charming character. The old town, with its narrow winding streets, invites visitors to explore. Numerous restaurants serve fresh fish, paella, and traditional Catalan specialties, while small bars and shops create a lively atmosphere. The old town lies between the coast, the harbor, and Sa Palomera, a rock often regarded as the symbolic start of the Costa Brava.
Markets in Blanes
- Large Weekly Market: Passeig de la Marina, at the boulevard in front of the old town, Mondays 08:00–14:00.
- Fruit & Vegetable Market: Passeig de Dintre & other squares, Monday to Saturday, 08:00–14:00.
Old Town Attractions
Blanes was called "Blanda" in Latin and was already settled during Roman times (approx. 75–50 BC). The old town feels authentic, with narrow streets, local shops, cafés, and fresh food markets.
- Santa Maria Church: Impressive example of Catalan Gothic architecture.
- Palau Vescomtal: Former residence of the Viscounts of Cabrera, now hosting cultural exhibitions.
- Various restaurants offering fresh fish and seafood, e.g., "Can Flores" or "Sa Malica".
Blanes on Video – Costa Brava
Day Trips Around Blanes
Blanes is the perfect base to explore the Costa Brava and its charming towns. Recommended nearby excursions include:
- Lloret de Mar (approx. 6 km) – Popular resort with a lively promenade, beautiful coves like Cala Boadella, the Santa Clotilde Gardens, and vibrant nightlife.
- Cala Canyelles (approx. 7 km) – Quiet cove with fine sand, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or a relaxing beach day. Restaurants nearby serve fresh seafood.
- Tossa de Mar (approx. 15 km) – Picturesque coastal town with medieval old town (Vila Vella), imposing city walls, beaches, and scenic cliffside walking paths.
- Cala Sant Francesc / Sa Boadella – Natural coves between Blanes and Lloret de Mar, perfect for coastal hikes and snorkeling adventures.
- Marimurtra Botanical Garden – Just a few minutes south of Blanes, featuring over 3,000 plant species and stunning views over the Mediterranean.
- Santa Cristina Monastery (near Lloret de Mar) – 16th-century monastery surrounded by lush nature and a small beach.
- Castell de Montsoriu (approx. 25 km) – One of the largest and best-preserved castles in Catalonia, ideal for a day trip inland.
These excursions offer a mix of beach, culture, nature, and history, easily reachable by car or local buses – perfect for day trips or small adventures along the Costa Brava.
Trips from Blanes – Barcelona, Girona & More
Duration: approx. 1–1.5 hours (regional train). Departures: every 20–30 minutes. Arrival stations: Estació de França or Barcelona Sants.
- Tip: For faster connections to the city center, use Barcelona Sants.
- Duration: approx. 50–70 minutes
- Train type: MD/regional trains – faster, fewer stops; R1 with transfers – slower
- Departures: hourly
- Arrival station: Estació de Girona, central location
- Tip: MD/regional trains are more comfortable and quicker
Tickets available at the station, via the Rodalies app, or on the official website.
Events & Highlights
Another highlight is the famous Blanes Fireworks Competition, one of the largest in Europe. During the Festa Major honoring the patron saint Sant Joaquim, the sky lights up for seven days with spectacular colors – an unforgettable experience.
Recommendations & Advertising in Blanes / Cala Canyelles
Cala Bona Restaurant
Authentic Mediterranean cuisine, focusing on simplicity and high-quality ingredients.
Restaurant i Copes
Regional cuisine and high-quality live music with views over the Blanes harbor.
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