Tossa de Mar holidays

Food is a huge part of the Catalonian culture, they’re not just passionate about flavours, they’re obsessed. Most people will make a beeline for well-known dishes like paella or gazpacho, but there’s so much more to this region’s specialities. You can always start with arros negre, which is similar to paella yet the rice is replaced with squid ink, or its cured meats make for a great tapas option. Right on the beach, locations don’t get much better than Tapas del Mar. Celebrated for its seafood dishes with the cod fritters and mussels proving popular, it’s a real stand-out dining experience. Alternatively, La Rocca de Tossa is the place to go for paella with mixed seafood and vegetarian options all available. For the best pizza in town, Braseria Pini Pizzeria is just the spot. Served on a slate, it’s not your average fast food restaurant, this eatery has a sense of class.

After sampling the gastronomic scene, it’s time to see what the nightlife is about, whether you’re looking for relaxing cocktail spots like Bar Kars, craft beer hotspots such as La Gamba or live music venues like Romantic Garden.

You have a number of beaches to choose from in this well-equipped resort, but its main shoreline is Platja Gran. Stretching for 400 metres all the way to the town’s castle, it has a location worth shouting about, not to mention a fantastic line-up of facilities. With fine sand gently sloping into the Mediterranean, tranquil dips are an added bonus. On the other side of the bay you’ll find the smaller La Mar Menuda. Many people tend to head here when the main beach becomes crowded or just to snorkel in its gentle waters – this also makes it a better choice for families with small kids. Behind the castle walls, you’ll come to Es Codolar. Reached via some steps, this 30-metre sand spot has a more secluded feel with little amenities to show for itself.

This busy Spanish resort lets holidaymakers discover the town’s history while enjoying its modern highlights. From its museums to its Moorish tower and castle, spend your days delving into its past. Or, if you prefer to top up your tan you can always locate its many beaches, while outdoorsy types may prefer getting lost along its marked hiking trails.

Step back in time in Villa Vella (Old Town): The Old Town is definitely worth a visit, not only is it the last fortified Medieval town still standing on the Catalan coast, but it’s home to seven watchtowers. As soon as you enter Villa Vella, its antiquity is instantly evident from its pebbled cobbles to its stone walls and traditional fisherman’s houses. When you’re not walking up to its century-old lighthouse, you could be admiring the ruins of a Gothic church. At night its defensive walls are illuminated creating a beautiful Mediterranean glow. The castle has become the coast’s most notable feature, which probably has something to do with its raised, seaside position.

Explore the rugged coastline from Tossa de Mar: Referred to as the ‘Wild Coast’ due to its unspoilt beauty, Tossa de Mar is a great base for exploring the region’s scenic delights. Whether you choose to take a guided walk or navigate the many coastal paths on your own, get ready for captivating panoramas at every turn. Wander through areas of forestry and stumble upon secluded coves with diverse terrain greeting you along the way. With several routes, you have a number of options too, but the 15km Puis de ses Cadiretes path is particularly picturesque as it takes you through the verdant Montllor Mountains.