From Barcelona: Costa Brava Hike, Snorkel & Tossa de Mar

Explore Costa Brava’s Scenic Coastal Path and Medieval Town from Barcelona

This 9-hour tour offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, cultural discovery, and seaside relaxation. Starting at $142 per person, it takes you from Barcelona’s vibrant city center to the rugged beauty of Costa Brava’s coastline. The trip features a guided hike along the Camí de Ronda, visits to crystal-clear coves for swimming, and a stroll through the medieval town of Tossa de Mar.

The tour is designed for those who enjoy active days, scenic vistas, and historical charm. The small group setting enhances the experience, allowing for personalized attention. While it involves a moderate hike, the pace is leisurely enough to include plenty of stops for swimming, photos, and relaxing. Access to transportation, a professional guide, and water makes this outing both enjoyable and convenient.

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Key Points

• Duration of 9 hours with flexible starting times
• Hike along Costa Brava’s iconic Camí de Ronda trail with scenic views
• Swim in transparent coves and beaches of Costa Brava
• Visit Tossa de Mar, the only remaining medieval fortified town on the Catalan coast
• Small group tours for a more personalized experience
• Includes transportation, guide, water, and insurance, optional lunch

Starting From Barcelona to Costa Brava’s Coastal Beauty

This tour departs from Barcelona’s Passeig de Gràcia, in front of Five Guys, and begins with a 1.5-hour drive in an air-conditioned minivan. The journey takes travelers northwest from the city to the heart of Costa Brava, setting the stage for a day filled with natural landscapes and historic sights.

The combination of comfortable transport and scenic surroundings makes the trip accessible for most travelers, with options for hotel pickup available. The relaxed start allows guests to settle in and prepare for a day of exploration along the coast’s famous trail.

Hiking the Camí de Ronda Coastal Path

The main activity of this tour is the guided hike on the Camí de Ronda, a trail renowned for its breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The trail links Costa Brava towns from north to south, showcasing rocky cliffs, hidden coves, and fragrant pine, rosemary, and thyme scents.

The hike lasts approximately 3 hours, during which travelers enjoy spectacular vistas, including cliffs hanging over the sea and secluded coves perfect for swimming. The guide explains the natural surroundings and points out interesting features along the way.

Swimming and Sunbathing in Crystal-Clear Coves

One of the tour’s highlights is the opportunity to swim in coves with transparent waters. Several small beaches and coves along the trail are perfect spots to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the Mediterranean’s refreshing waters. The free time at these coves is well-planned, allowing visitors to unwind without feeling rushed.

Fragrant pine trees and herbs like rosemary and thyme create a sensory backdrop during the hike. The moderate walking pace and ample stops make this experience suitable for most fitness levels, including families with children.

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Lunch and Free Time in Tossa de Mar

After the hike, the group returns to Tossa de Mar for a 45-minute visit. This ancient fisherman’s village boasts a medieval old town, known as Vila Vella, which is the only remaining fortified medieval town on the Catalan coast. The white houses, narrow streets, and defensive towers create a lively Mediterranean atmosphere.

Guests have the option to book a traditional local restaurant for lunch, offering authentic Catalan cuisine. The free time allows for exploring the labyrinth of alleys, browsing local shops, or simply soaking in the historic ambiance.

The Charm of Tossa de Mar’s Old Town Walls

Walking behind the medieval city walls, visitors discover a maze of narrow streets lined with whitewashed buildings. The Vila Vella area offers panoramic views of the sea and the coast, making it a favorite spot for photos. The castle ruins and towers provide insight into the town’s defensive history.

This part of the tour is perfect for those interested in history and architecture, as guides share stories behind the 11th-century structures and the town’s maritime past.

Return Journey and Drop-Off Locations

Following the sightseeing and exploration, the group boards the air-conditioned minivan for the 1.5-hour return drive to Barcelona. The tour concludes with drop-offs at Catalan Trails or Hiking Experiences from Barcelona, with options for hotel pickup in advance.

The logistics are smooth, and the flexible options make it convenient to plan the rest of your day in Barcelona or nearby accommodations.

Practical Details and What to Bring

Participants should wear hiking shoes and dress in weather-appropriate clothing. Since the tour involves moderate walking, comfortable footwear is necessary. Bringing snacks for the hike is advised, as lunch is optional and can be booked separately at a local restaurant.

The tour includes transportation, a professional guide, bottled water, and personal insurance. It’s suitable for travelers who appreciate active outings with scenic views, cultural visits, and beach time.

The Guide’s Role and Tour Experience

Guides on this tour are knowledgeable and friendly, with reviews praising their proficiency in English and other languages. They share interesting facts about Costa Brava’s natural environment and Tossa de Mar’s history, making the day both educational and enjoyable.

The small group setting ensures personalized attention, relaxed pacing, and space for questions. The guides’ patience and storytelling ability shine, especially when accommodating families or travelers with different paces.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy hiking, swimming, and exploring historic towns. It suits those seeking a balanced day of nature and culture within a manageable time frame. Families with children can enjoy the leisurely pace and the chance to swim in coves, while history buffs will appreciate the insights into Tossa de Mar’s medieval past.

However, the moderate hike may be challenging for some with mobility issues or limited stamina. The lunch option provides an opportunity to relax and sample local flavors, enhancing the overall experience.

Final Thoughts on the Costa Brava Hike and Tossa de Mar Tour

This well-rounded 9-hour tour delivers stunning coastal views, wholesome outdoor activity, and cultural discovery. The guided hike along the Camí de Ronda stands out as a highlight, offering unforgettable scenery and a chance to swim in pristine coves.

The visit to Tossa de Mar’s old town adds historical depth and visual charm. The small group format and professional guides make this a memorable outing, especially for those who enjoy active days in beautiful settings.

While it requires physical effort, the combination of scenic hikes, beach stops, and cultural exploration makes it worth considering for anyone visiting Barcelona who seeks to experience Costa Brava beyond the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned minivan from Barcelona to Costa Brava and back.

Can I book lunch in Tossa de Mar?
Yes, a traditional local restaurant can be booked for lunch, though it is not included in the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves a moderate hike, but with a leisurely pace and time at coves for swimming and playing, it can suit families with children who are comfortable with walking.

What should I bring for this tour?
Participants should bring hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and snacks for the hike. Water is provided.

Are small group options available?
Yes, small or private groups are available, offering a more tailored experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby