Cadaqués is an idyllic coastal gem nestled on the breathtaking Costa Brava that boasts incredible beaches, a pretty and historic old town, a rich cultural heritage, and a complex and fascinating past. For those looking to slow things down and enjoy a Mediterranean break but who still want some brilliant things to see and do, this wonderful town that has attracted renowned artists for decades and for good reason is ideal. Find your villa on the Costa Brava with Easy Reserve today and then come see why this stunning town has captured so many hearts throughout the years...
Due to its location, the first and most obvious attraction to Cadaqués are her pristine beaches. Playa de Portlligat is a secluded and peaceful beach with tranquil waters and stunning views that is a short stroll from the centre of town and was Dalí’s beach of choice. Playa Grande is the town’s main beach that is located in the centre of town with lots of bars and restaurants nearby, has crystal-clear waters, boasts a variety of water sports to enjoy, and has a bustling family-friendly atmosphere. From here, you can easily rent a kayak or paddle board and head off down the coastline to explore this stunning stretch of the coast. Other honourable mentions in the area include Playa Es Sortell with its pebbly shore and framing of Modernist houses, the more remote Playa Sa Conca with its bobbing boats, and the sunset spot that is Playa es Pianc.
As you move away from the shore and inland, you’ll pass through a gorgeous tangle of winding streets, whitewashed houses draped in vibrant bougainvillea, quaint boutiques, traditional cafés, and art galleries. Art really is everywhere, with plenty of local craftspeople and artists (around 60 currently live and work in the town), streets that were once wandered by the likes of Picasso, Chagall, and Klein, and the Salvador Dalí House Museum, which was once the residence of the famous surrealist artist for whom it is named. In this gem of a museum you can admire works by the artist alongside personal artefacts, all in the stunning setting of the house itself and it is a must-see for art-lovers who are on vacation in Catalonia.
Other must-see attractions in town include the Church of Santa Maria, a beautiful 16th-century Baroque building that boasts breathtaking views over Cadaqués and its surroundings. The rugged and wild coastal scenery of the Cap de Creus Natural Park is also unmissable, an area of natural beauty that can be reached by boat trip and that inspired those artists drawn to the area. Made up of little coves, craggy cliffs, and bluer than blue waters, it is a remarkable place. And, if you get a taste for seafaring adventure, you can head to the Cadaqués Municipal Museum, where you can learn all about the maritime traditions of the town and its history of run-ins with pirates – including those who kidnapped Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote, and held him for ransom for five years. Before you leave, hit up favoured hangs of the artist crowd and celebrities like Mick Jagger, Sting, and Shakira such as L’Hostal to sample the incredible seafood, traditional dishes, and wines of the area or grab a drink by the spot where Marcel Duchamp used to play chess in the Bar Melitón.
A bit of a hippie hub today that has hosted the vacation homes of wealthy Catalans since the 20th century, this intriguing and captivating gem of a town boasts plenty of character, amazing beaches, and a remarkable cultural wealth. It is a rather singular place, well worth exploring. So, browse our holiday rentals on the Costa Brava and then plan a day-trip to come see it for yourself and to fall in love with the enchanting charms of this picturesque town in Spain.