Malgrat de Mar is a cheerful coastal town and an ideal base for exploring the region, with easy access to Costa Brava’s more developed beach destinations. Enjoy the town’s numerous family-friendly attractions, including calm coastal waters suitable for swimming, as well as extensive park spaces equipped with unique playgrounds.
The area has been inhabited since as far back as 200 B.C. Officially founded in A.D. 1373, the town developed an economy revolving around agricultural and fishing industries. Although it has become an increasingly popular tourist destination since the 1960s, it has managed to maintain its sleepy charm and Spanish heritage.
The town’s sandy beaches stretch across more than 2.8 miles (4.5 kilometres) of coastline, divided into small bays by large rock formations. For a peaceful day in the sun, head to Conca Beach at the mouth of the Tordera River. The quietest of the town’s three beaches, Conca has pristine sand dunes designated as protected environmental zones. If you’re looking for something more active, Malgrat de Mar is an excellent base for visiting nearby Santa Susanna, where you can kayak, water ski or parasail.
Take the kids to Parc Francesc Macià, a pretty green area encompassing 430,000 square feet (40,000 square metres) of leisure space. Notice the offbeat sculptures found at the rear of the park, designed to resemble enormous cakes, pencils and other quirky objects. With a skate park, promenades and playgrounds, the park is also a perfect place to bring a picnic.
Be sure to visit Parc del Castell, a park on top of a hill overlooking the town. In addition to playgrounds and botanic gardens, the park offers beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Check out 18th-century Sant Nicolau's Church with its lovely neoclassical façade and take a look around the town’s historic fish market, Peixtaries Velles.
Malgrat de Mar is located 37 miles (60 kilometres) from Barcelona. It’s connected to Barcelona by train as well as to Girona by bus.
