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04.01.2026

The 10 Hidden Gems of the Costa Brava You Should Know Before You Buy

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The 10 Hidden Gems of the Costa Brava You Should Know Before You Buy

Everyone knows Cadaqués and Tossa de Mar. But the real magic of the Costa Brava is hidden in corners that only locals know about. If you're looking for your home on this privileged coastline, these secret spots could completely change your buying decision.

1. Tamariu: The Town That Time Forgotten

This small cove in the town of Palafrugell seems to have been stopped in the 60s. Without large hotels or commercial chains, Tamariu retains its fishing village essence. Properties here are scarce and highly sought after, with prices that reflect their exclusivity.

Why will you fall in love: Fine sandy beaches, family restaurants with fresh fish of the day, and an environment where everyone knows each other. Here you can leave your bike without a lock.

Ideal buyer profile: Families looking for authenticity and community, professionals who value tranquility but want to be close to Palafrugell (10 minutes).

2. Llafranc: Discreet Elegance with Breathtaking Views

Tamariu's sophisticated neighbor. Llafranc has a charming promenade, the Sant Sebastià lighthouse with 360-degree views, and a perfect mix of local residents and select vacationers.

The unique experience: Dine on the seafront while the sun sets over Cap de Begur. On Sundays, the local flea market is an institution.

Real estate opportunity: Apartments with sea views from 300,000€, villas in the surrounding hills with spectacular views.

3. Aigua Xelida: Palafrugell's Best Kept Secret

Between Tamariu and Llafranc there is this small residential area that many outsiders don't even know exists. Single-family houses surrounded by pine trees, access to pristine coves and total privacy.

The wow factor: Wake up and walk down to your own semi-private cove. The feeling of exclusivity without the exorbitant price.

4. Sa Tuna: Living Postcard from the Mediterranean

This tiny cove between Begur and Aiguablava is pure Mediterranean essence. Fishermen's houses converted into charming homes, colorful boats on the sand, and two restaurants that serve the best rice broth in the area.

Warning: Properties here practically never come to the market. When they do, they sell out within weeks.

5. Pals: Medieval on the Outside, Contemporary on the Inside

The perfectly preserved medieval town that looks like a movie set. But behind those 12th-century stone facades are modern lofts, art galleries and a vibrant cultural community.

Strategic advantage: 10 minutes from the best beaches (Platja del Castell, Sa Riera) but without the crowds. You have beach and mountains within a radius of 5 kilometers.

Average price: Houses in the old town from 400,000€, farmhouses in the surrounding area with more space and garden.

6. Fornells: The Unknown Eden

Practically nobody outside of Girona knows Fornells. It is a small town between Begur and Palafrugell, surrounded by nature and with direct access to some of the best coves on the Costa Brava.

The lifestyle: Have breakfast on your terrace listening to birds, go hiking along the Camí de Ronda, and be on the beach in 5 minutes. It's like living in a natural park with services.

7. L'Estartit: More than Medes Islands

Yes, L'Estartit is known for the Medes Islands and diving. But few know that behind the tourist area there are quiet residential neighborhoods with very reasonable properties and incredible views of the Montgrí.

For smart investors: Excellent value for money, high demand for vacation rentals, and year-round services (it's not a ghost town in winter).

8. Peratallada: Living in a National Monument

This medieval town is literally a historical-artistic complex. Cobbled streets, stone arches, and a square that seems to be from the 13th century (because it is).

The perfect contrast: Medieval history with gourmet restaurants, designer boutiques and fiber optics. It's the balance between past and present.

Fun fact: Many people from Barcelona have turned this town into their teleworking haven.

9. Cala Montjoi: Where El Bulli Was

This protected bay was home to Ferran Adrià's mythical El Bulli restaurant. Although the restaurant closed, the area maintains an exclusive and calm air, with properties that offer absolute privacy.

Unique appeal: Crystal clear waters protected from the Tramontana wind, ideal for water sports. Small residential area with family atmosphere.

10. The Baix Empordà Interior: The Hidden Treasure

Villages such as Monells, Cruïlles or Ullastret are 15-20 minutes from the coast but offer total authenticity, more affordable prices and properties with land that are impossible to find on the first line.

The Smart Bet: Farmhouses with swimming pool, absolute tranquility, and you can be on the beach of Pals or Begur in less than 20 minutes. Prices up to 40% lower than on the coast.

Insider Tips for Exploring These Gems

Off-season visit: July and August show the tourist version. September, May or even March reveal to you the true essence of each place.

Talk to the locals: In the town bar, at the weekly market. They will tell you truths that no real estate agency will tell you (well, except us).

Walk the Camí de Ronda: This coastal path connects many of these coves and towns. It's the best way to understand topography and views from different properties.

Try the lifestyle: Rent a few days in the area you are interested in before buying. Live as you would if it were your home.

The Costa Brava Real vs. The Costa Brava Touristic

These hidden gems represent the Costa Brava that endures beyond the peak seasons. They are places where real communities are forged, where children go to the local school, where the baker knows you by name.

Buying in one of these corners is not just buying a property, it's earning a place in an authentic Mediterranean community.

Discover your Personal Jewel

Each of these places has its own unique personality. Some will call you for their peace of mind, others for their social life, others for their natural beauty. The key is to find the one that resonates with your lifestyle.

We have been connecting people with these special corners of the Costa Brava for years. We know the stories behind every rock, every cove, every neighborhood.

Ready to discover your hidden gem? Let us be your local guide on this adventure. The authentic Costa Brava is waiting for you.