If you’re looking for a quiet, picturesque getaway surrounded by mountains and stunning coastline then this town in Spain is perfect for you. Nestled at the foot of rugged Albera mountain range and at the mouth of the brilliant blue Costa Brava, this little village is found just over a mile from the French border, offering a unique culture-filled experience.
And despite its small size, it offers a wealth of activities for tourists. Many come to experience the natural beauty of the area and to engage in activities like watersports and hiking. For example, the Cap de Creus Natural Park is located close by and offers a wealth of trails for even casual walkers to enjoy.
For those who want a more relaxing holiday, there is also the renowned Mediterranean coastline to enjoy. The main beach is Platja Gran, famous for its wide stretch of golden sand and turquoise waters. But for those seeking places with a hidden charm, there are also more private coves lying in wait, like Cala Rovellada and Cala del Pi.
Of course, for lovers of beautiful architecture, you can’t talk about Portbou without mentioning the magnificent Santa Maria church, resplendent with neogothic architecture and offering panoramic views of the village’s dynamic coast. If you’re interested in art, there is also the Portbou Museum, which has many contemporary paintings and exhibitions on display.
It’s also a great place for seafood, as the portside town offers many highly rated Catalan restaurants with beloved dishes like suquet de peix (fish stew), arroz caldoso and the immensely popular paella. Many are very affordable too, like El Racó de la Mar, a charming bar where you can order a meal for under £16 while enjoying the village’s peaceful atmosphere.
One TripAdvisor review reads: “Port bou. Out with masses. If you are looking to relax, without knowing where to put the towel. An ancient town where there are places that still do not accept cards. I prefer this than Lloret (to say the least) relaxation, snorkeling beach and relaxation.”
Another reviewer described it as a “place of stunning beauty, quiet solitude and simplicity.”
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, the town has many hotels and Airbnbs dotted around the area. Hotels cost as little as £53 per night, while there are Airbnbs on offer for an incredibly cheap £16 per night. The weather begins to heat up in April, reaching highs of 19 degrees, and peaks in August, with highs of 26 degrees.
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