Have you ever heard of the Montgrí Natural Park and the Medes Islands? Known for its Mediterranean coastline, coves, cliffs, and beautiful fine sandy beaches, this Mediterranean tourist site will enhance your holiday in Spain on the Costa Brava, just a stone's throw from Begur and your accommodation.
A Natural Paradise on the Costa Brava: The Medes Islands
Behind the tourist image of concrete hotels, the Costa Brava in northeastern Spain actually hides wild coastlines, traditional fishing villages, and other secret places with rich flora and fauna that only the most curious visitors take the time to discover. One kilometer off the beach of this seaside resort stands a paradise that humans can only admire from afar: the Medes Islands archipelago. Comprising seven main islands and several islets, the archipelago is a protected area: fishing is prohibited, scuba diving is regulated, and flora and fauna are preserved. You won’t find beaches, ports, houses, apartments, hotels, or restaurants here: people are not allowed to stop, and no one has lived there since 1934. The only human construction is the Meda lighthouse, guiding sailors to avoid shipwrecks. Take your time to capture stunning photos of this magnificent area and keep unforgettable images of the island.
The Medes Islands, a Paradise for Divers
Thanks to the marine conservation measures implemented in the 1980s, the Medes Islands have become a must-visit diving spot in the western Mediterranean and a priceless biodiversity reserve. Among the rocky formations and underwater caves, divers can observe groupers, scorpionfish, octopuses, jacks, eels, lobsters, and barracudas, all visible thanks to excellent water clarity. The luckiest might even encounter a dolphin or a sunfish. Several diving centers operate in L’Estartit, offering hotel + diving packages. The dive sites are all located around the Medes Islands and along the coast. Water sports abound near the Medes Islands.
Visiting the Medes Islands by Boat
Non-divers can explore the archipelago by boat. Several companies offer various excursions suitable for the whole family. The boats sail along the coast and around the Medes Islands. Some vessels feature a glass bottom, allowing visitors to admire the rich underwater life and incredible biodiversity. Traditional Catalan boats or kayaks are also available for the more adventurous. Snorkeling trips are organized from L’Estartit as well.
L’Estartit and the Wild Coast of Montgrí
The Montgrí coast also promises a great vacation experience, particularly in L’Estartit. This small fishing village lies at the foot of the Montgrí Massif. Now a renowned seaside resort, it has retained its authenticity and charm. Find the perfect accommodation to explore the region and its flora and fauna. For more information and photos, visit the local tourist office. Besides sporting activities and boat trips, L’Estartit offers hikers beautiful trails. From the village, it’s easy to venture into the wetlands and nature reserves around the River Ter, accompanied by birdsong. Adventurers can also explore the Montgrí Massif, which provides stunning views of the region. Just a few minutes west of L’Estartit stands the Montgrí Castle, an imposing fortress built in the late 13th century. Many medieval villages are worth visiting around L’Estartit, with Pals, Peratallada, and Ullastret being the most notable. For those seeking a more relaxing vacation, the long beaches of L’Estartit facing the Medes Islands are ideal. Early mornings even attract golfers who create makeshift courses on the sand. Thanks to underwater activities, L’Estartit is a lively seaside resort year-round, hosting numerous festivals from January to December. Don’t miss its Thursday market either! Just over an hour's drive from our campsite on the Costa Brava, L’Estartit, the Medes Islands, and the coast will delight nature lovers and scuba diving enthusiasts.