Perched atop a hill where the Begur massif meets the plains, the mediaeval town of Pals is a captivating destination for visitors. Although slightly inland, the town’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region by car.
A picturesque street in the medieval town of Pals, on the Costa Brava. Photo by Michele Ursino.
What sets Pals apart is its remarkable preservation of historical character and charm. Enclosed by medieval walls, the well-preserved old town is surrounded by farmland and boasts enchanting cobbled streets adorned with stunning buildings, churches, and other historic landmarks. Furthermore, Pals boasts a delightful array of restaurants, cafes, and bars where visitors can indulge in local cuisine and beverages, adding to the town’s allure.
Pals offers varied accommodation to suit every preference. Cosy boutique hotels and charming bed and breakfasts in the historic centre cater to different tastes. Opt for self-catering apartments or scenic rental villas for flexibility and comfort. Out of town options include Massos de Pals, situated between Pals and the coast.
Food lovers will be delighted by the culinary offerings of Pals. The town is renowned for its exceptional restaurants and eateries that showcase the vibrant flavours of Catalan cuisine as you dine under the stars. Golf aficionados can tee off at Golf Platja de Pals or the neighbouring Empordà Golf Club. Embark on scenic hikes or cycling routes, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Or simply spend lazy days basking in the sun on the sandy beaches, enjoying the soothing sounds of the Mediterranean Sea.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Pals by partaking in its lively events and festivals. Experience the town’s traditional celebrations, where locals showcase their heritage through music, dance, and gastronomy. Celebrate alongside the friendly community, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Overall, Pals is a great destination for a holiday or for a property purchase. With its stunning scenery, historical attractions, and great selection of restaurants and bars, it is sure to be a popular choice for travellers and property buyers alike.
Beaches
While Pals is around 5 km inland, you’ll find a selection of decent beaches. Let’s explore each beach in detail:
Platja de Pals is the main beach in the area. This expansive sandy beach stretches for approximately three kilometres and is backed by sand dunes and pine forests. It offers a wide coastline, providing ample space for visitors to relax, sunbathe, or take a leisurely stroll along the shore. During the summer months, the beach can be lively but not overly crowded, striking a balance between a vibrant atmosphere and tranquillity. Platja de Pals provides excellent facilities, including beach bars, restaurants, water sports equipment rentals, and beachside showers.
Next to it is platja de Illa Roja, renowned for its unique rock formation rising from the sea, known as Illa Roja or Red Island. The small, coarse sand beach is popular with nudists and offers a sense of seclusion and serenity, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a quieter beach experience. Facilities at the beach are limited, but visitors can find a beach bar with stunning views of the coastline. Snorkelling enthusiasts will appreciate the clear waters and the opportunity to explore the underwater world around the rocks.
Platja de Riera is the next beach along this stretch, a picturesque cove surrounded by pine covered hills. Sa Riera is smaller than platja de Pals and has a more secluded and tranquil atmosphere, but it still provides sufficient space for visitors to unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings. The beach features some facilities such as beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood dishes and snacks. Its calm waters make it an ideal spot for snorkelling and exploring the marine life.
While these are the beaches closest to Pals, Estartit is certainly within easy driving distance and L’Escala a little further. And Cadaqués and the Cap de Creus are reachable within 90 minutes if you want to explore further afield.
Where to stay
While the majority of visitors to Pals stay in a rented apartment or villa, there are a small number of hotels and campsites too.
When it comes to hotels in Pals, there are several noteworthy options. Es Portal Hotel Boutique (Carretera de Pals a Torroella de Montgrí, 17) is a converted 16th century farmhouse just outside Pals. The establishment is known for its charming and intimate atmosphere, blending modern comforts with rustic elements, and its restaurant. Arkhé Hotel Boutique (Carrer del Raval, 5) is known for blending contemporary sophistication with local history and culture. The meticulously crafted rooms offer luxury and comfort, while the hotel’s commitment to sustainability reflects a genuine concern for the environment. And Hostal Barris B&B (Enginyer Algarra, 51) is a family-run establishment with a welcoming atmosphere for guests. As a bed and breakfast, it provides comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast to start the day.
If you prefer self-catering accommodations, apartments and villas are available to rent in and around Pals. These options offer the convenience of a home away from home, with many properties situated in the countryside, providing a tranquil setting and easy access to the town and nearby beaches. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, these accommodations provide the privacy and flexibility desired for a memorable stay.
For camping enthusiasts, Camping Resort-Bungalow Park Mas Patoxas is a popular choice in the area. This campsite offers spacious pitches for tents and caravans, as well as comfortable bungalows for those seeking a more luxurious camping experience. The site boasts amenities such as swimming pools, restaurants, and entertainment facilities, ensuring a delightful and engaging stay.
Eating in and eating out
The area surrounding Pals is known for rice cultivation, and the region’s rice is highly valued and used in traditional dishes like arròs a la cassola as well as the ubiquitous paella. The town has several fantastic dining options to discover.
Es Portal Restaurant (Carretera de Pals a Torroella de Montgrí, 17) is a standout choice, offering a delightful culinary experience with its emphasis on Mediterranean cuisine and a warm ambiance. Another recommended restaurant in Pals is Restaurant Sol Blanc (Barri Molinet, 14), known for its creative dishes and inviting atmosphere. Additionally, Restaurant La Vila (Carrer de l’Abeurador, 18) is a popular establishment serving traditional Catalan cuisine.
If you’re open to exploring nearby towns, Restaurant Sa Rascassa (Cala Aiguafreda, 3) is located near the beach of Aiguafreda. This charming establishment specializes in seafood and offers a picturesque setting with stunning views of the Mediterranean. . For a unique dining experience, head to Restaurant El Pati (Carrer Hospital-Perat, 13) in Peratallada , where you can savour delicious dishes in a medieval courtyard.
In terms of self-catering options, Pals offers a range of food shops where you can find local produce and ingredients. Pals market is a traditional street market that presents an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses. Additionally, there are large supermarkets in nearby towns, such as Palafrugell, which provide a wider selection of grocery items to fulfil your needs. While Pals has sufficient food shopping options, visiting larger nearby towns can offer an even greater variety of choices for dining and shopping experiences.
What to see and do
In addition to its beautiful beaches, Pals offers a range of activities and attractions for holidaymakers to enjoy. The town is also surrounded by picturesque countryside, making it an excellent destination for hiking and cycling, with scenic trails to explore.
When it comes to notable sites, a visit to the medieval old town of Pals is a must. Wander through its cobbled streets, admire the well-preserved Romanesque architecture, and climb the impressive Torre de les Hores for panoramic views. It’s the only surviving tower from the old castle and from the top you can see as far as the Medes islands. The nearby 15th -century Sant Pere church is also worth a visit, showcasing intricate details and historical significance.
For history buffs, a trip to the nearby ruins of Empúries offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Roman and Greek civilizations. Explore the archaeological site, marvel at the well-preserved mosaics, and soak in the rich historical ambiance. You might also like the Cork Museum (Museu del Suro) in nearby Palafrugell, which provides insight into the cork industry and its cultural importance in the region. The museum showcases exhibits on the history, craftsmanship, and various uses of cork.
In terms of activities, visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by participating in cooking classes, where they can learn to prepare traditional Catalan dishes using fresh local ingredients. Exploring the local markets, such as the weekly street market in Pals or the markets in nearby towns, is a great way to experience the vibrant atmosphere and discover local produce and crafts.
Additionally, nature lovers can take a tour to the nearby Medes Islands, a protected marine reserve, and indulge in snorkelling or diving to witness the incredible underwater biodiversity. The surrounding area also offers golf courses, horseback riding, and wine tasting experiences in the renowned Empordà wine region.
From engaging in exciting sports activities and uncovering historical sites to immersing oneself in local culture and exploring the natural wonders, Pals provides a diverse range of experiences that cater to the interests of every visitor.
How to get to Pals
Take the AP-7 motorway heading south from the French border. Follow the signs to Girona North/Port Palamós to junction 6 then continue on the C-66/GI-643/C-31 towards Pals. This route typically takes around an hour and a quarter.
From Barcelona, driving to Pals is straightforward. Take the AP-7 motorway north towards Girona, exiting for the C-35 at junction 9A. Continue on this road for around 45 kilometres, initially past numerous villages as you head toward the coast, and then as it runs more on less parallel to shoreline. As you approach Palafrugell follow signs towards Torroella de Montgrí, after which you’ll see directions towards Pals.
From Girona Airport, you can take a shuttle to Girona bus station and then regional bus service to Pals via Palafrugell, but the journey time can be 4 hours. If arriving at Barcelona airport take the train from Barcelona Sants to Girona followed by the local bus service. Taxis and private transfers are also available for a more direct and comfortable travel experience.
