A Morning of Discovery: Blanes and the Marimurtra Botanical Gardens

Our day began bright and early in Barcelona, where we gathered with our small group near the iconic Palau de la Música. The excitement was palpable as we set off towards the Costa Brava, a region I had longed to explore with my children. As we left the bustling city behind, the landscape transformed into a serene tapestry of pine-covered cliffs and hidden coves.

Our first stop was Blanes, where we were given the choice to either relax on a secluded beach or explore the Marimurtra Botanical Gardens. My children, ever the adventurers, opted for a bit of both. We started at the gardens, where the Linnaeus Pavilion offered breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. While the flora itself was not particularly captivating for us, the panoramic vistas were worth every step. I would recommend packing your own snacks, as the café service was notably slow.

After a leisurely stroll through the gardens, we made our way down the scenic path to the beach. The walk was longer than anticipated, but the view was a delightful reward. The beach was a perfect spot for the kids to splash around and for me to unwind, though I wished we had allocated more time here. Remember to factor in time for changing and the climb back to the bus.

A Taste of Tradition: Lunch in Blanes

Following our morning adventures, we headed to a charming local restaurant in Blanes for lunch. The setting was picturesque, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. The menu offered a variety of traditional dishes, and while some were hits, others were not to our taste. The patatas bravas were a crowd favorite, and my son thoroughly enjoyed his steak. My daughter and I tried the melon with traditional ham, which was not quite to our liking, but that’s the beauty of trying new things.

The main course was a type of fish that I found less appealing than expected, but the dessert was a delightful end to the meal. Dining with my children in such a lovely setting was a highlight of the day, and it was a wonderful opportunity to discuss the morning’s adventures and plan our afternoon in Tossa de Mar.

Exploring History: Tossa de Mar

Our final destination was the enchanting town of Tossa de Mar. Known for its medieval charm, Tossa de Mar offered a perfect blend of history and leisure. We had the option to join a guided tour of the old town and lighthouse or explore on our own. We chose the guided tour, which provided fascinating insights into the town’s history and architecture.

The cobbled streets and castle walls were a delight to explore, and the views from the lighthouse were simply stunning. We even stumbled upon a popular Instagram spot, though the line for photos was longer than expected. It’s always a good idea to keep track of time on group tours to ensure you don’t miss out on any experiences.

As we made our way back to Barcelona, I reflected on the day’s adventures. The Costa Brava had offered us a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and family bonding. For those looking to experience the highlights of this stunning region without the hassle of planning every detail, I highly recommend the Costa Brava Escape. Just remember to dress comfortably, bring snacks, and most importantly, enjoy every moment with your loved ones.