Great Things to Do Near Villa Sophia
The Medes Islands
These Islands and their marine life, just a mile off the coast, are a protected Marine Natural park and are one of the most important in the whole of the Mediterranean.
Divers come here from all over the world as they are considered to be such an important site.
Go Fishing!
From Palafrugell you can go on a guided fishing trip, or rent fishing tackle.
Visit the Museu de la Pesca in Palamos
the only one of its kind in the Mediterranean with a permanent exhibition linked to the seafaring tradition of the Costa Brava depicting the past, present and future of fishing.
Explore the nearby medieval village of Pals, which can be seen perched on the hillside from miles around
Wander around the old town, El Pedró. One of the main features to see is the magnificent circular Romanesque Tower, the Torre de les Hores, which is all that is left of the castle that used to guard the estuary of the River Daró. From the viewpoint you can see the Medes Islands, the Montgrí and Canigó massifs and the Albera mountain ranges.
Play a round of golf!
Try the Golf Playa de Pals.
Take a stroll beneath the beamed archways "Voltes"
situated along the front of Port Bo Beach in Calella. Have an evening drink and enjoy the twinkling lights of the fishing boats out at sea.
Go ride a horse!
Horse riding is available at Canapost Cavalls de Forallac - you can enjoy night excursions, carriage rides and for those who do not wish to take to horseback, Kart Cross excursions can be taken from here.
Spend the evening in Tamariu,
a favourite with local fishermen, whose colourful artisan boats provide the perfect backdrop for the handful of excellent restaurants that adorn the picturesque seafront promenade. Evening is a truly Mediterranean experience! As dusk falls local artisans set up stalls. Jugglers, a violinist and perhaps a local artist set their pitch. Waiters start serving platters of grilled fish. All this adds to a sparkling yet relaxing evening as the mediterraneus (so named by the Romans) laps gently on the shoreline.
Drive to the centre of Begur and climb up to the castle
from where there are far reaching views. The most noteworthy are those towards the Medes Islands, long ago a refuge for pirates and smugglers, although today they are famous as a marine nature reserve.
Catch the train and visit Barcelona for the day.
There is so much to see and do in this vibrant city. Take the open topped tour bus and hop on and off at the different sights. After a lunch of delicious tapas save some energy for shopping in the elegant shops.
Visit the thermal baths and golf course at Caldes de Malavella
The Balneario Vichy Catalan is just outside the town situated in pine grove or play a round of golf at the nearby prestigious PGA 18 hole course, which is easily accessible.
The experience of the so called ‘Dalinian Triangle’ for lovers of art and culture is a ‘must’.
The three parts to visit are his home in Cadaqués (pre-booking necessary), the Teatre-Museu in Figueres and the Gala-Dalí Castle in Pubol. This will be a long day excursion but very informative and entertaining!
Visit the spectacular Greek and Roman settlement of Empuries
Enjoy a lunch of fresh anchovies from L’Escala – a local speciality. On the way back, visit the pre-Roman Iberian settlement of Ullastret and see how life was 2,500 years ago compared to today’s world!
Drive up through the pine trees to the 15th century hermitage and lighthouse of Sant Sebastià
which sits above the delightful, majestic bay of Llafranc and enjoy the breathtaking views out across the Mediterranean.
Visit the Sunday morning market at Palafrugell
and soak up the atmosphere with a drink in the main square. Later visit the magnificent wine store of Jordi Grau and enjoy a glass of wine with a “tapa”.
Drive a few miles inland
and visit the many ancient stone villages that make up what is known as the “Golden Triangle”. Stop for lunch in Peratallada and then visit the fascinating farm museum in the tiny village of Palau Sator.
Explore the nearby Cala del Ruso, close to Calella de Palafrugell
named after the Russian Colonel Woevowsky, who lived there with his aristocratic English wife, Dorothy Webster. Together they built the Botanical Gardens and small Castle at Cap Roig and used to swim daily at the cala.
Sa Roncadora de Tamariu - the salt water geyser!
You might be lucky and experience this spectacle of nature. If you take the coastal path between Tamariu and Aigua Xelida you will come across this 52 metre long, 17 metre deep crevice which stretches down to the sea. On days when there are blustery easterly winds, the waves crash onto the rocks, rush the length of the crevice and shoot out to a height of 5 metres over the mouth, erupting in a cloud of froth and water.
The golden sandy beach of Aigua Blava
is a very short drive away. Justifiably awarded a coveted Blue Flag, this beach boasts the finest and softest sand in the immediate area. Enjoy a meal overlooking the bay and enjoy the freshest of grilled fish, accompanied by a glass of chilled white wine.
Explore the nearby coves of Aigua Xelida.
famous for their crystal clear waters and wonderful opportunities for snorkelling. Take a picnic and make a day of it, perhaps trying your hand at fishing for your supper!
