The costa brava means "rugged coast" in Catalan and extends north of Barcelona to the French border. The landscapes consist of cork oak & stone pine forest stands atop rocky cliffs with small cove beaches harbouring crystal clear water below. We just love cooling off during the hot mediterranean summers along these coasts! Keep in mind that to get off the touristy routes will often involves physcial challenge to reach the most spectacular places. However, we go at your comfort level and have several itineries for all levels and ages, as well as activities to support the community and to clean up the waterways and trails. Some groups may prefer an easy stroll through the charming white washed fishing villages that dot the coastline while other groups might be keen on hiking trails that run along the tops of cliffs. Smaller footpaths take you down to coves and small beaches only accesible on foot or boat. Some of the stand out spots make for excellent snorkeling in aqua clear water, which is also a great option if you are into getting wet. You or your group might prefer to explore the coastline in sea kayaks, which is a great way to access some of the smaller coves. Other options might include a visit to one of several medieval villages carved out of stone (and yes we avoid those touristy ones with the little trains), one of which we stop at for lunch. The old Roman road passes directly through the villages, which developed as a trading post for travellers heading deeper into Roman territories in the Iberian peninsula. Depending on our activities this day, we move on to the city of Girona to walk along its medieval fortress walls, enter into the old Jewish quarter and visit its museum. Girona's cathedral is a must see as the widest single nave gothic cathedral in Europe. If you are a wine enthusiast or looking to sample some of the best wines in Spain, the D.O. Empordà is one of the most unique regions to wine tour. Learning about terroir is a great method for understanding a local culture and their traditions. It was here that the Greeks introduced cultivation to local Iberian tribes. With one foot in the past, the other is in the future. This is a wine reigion where ancient varieties of grapes once nearly extinct have been re-discovered and brought back to the forefront of grape cultivation.