Tossa De Mar, More Than A Beach

By Author: Bonny Kominek
Total Articles: 230
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High up on the eastern coast of Spain is the small municipality of Tossa de Mar. Situated exactly between Barcelona and the French border, Tossa is a small fishing village that has become a popular tourist destination, but there is much more to do than simply relax on the beach.

Admittedly, the beaches of Tossa de Mar are as fine as any you will find in the world. The Platja Gran, the main beach in Tossa is closed off at one end by a medieval castle that dominates the coastline. Le Mar Menuda is on the other side of the bay but quite small, less than two hundred metres long and can get crowded. The final is El Codolar, which is behind the walls and quite small.

Tossa''s climate is another of its great charm. Throughout the year the temperature rarely drops below 15 degrees, and the Mediterranean remains balmy regardless of the season. Like every other beach holiday location, the busiest time of year is August and July, so if you can be a bit flexible, it''s probably good to avoid those months.

Just off the beaches are a host of restaurants, where, if you get the right one you can find fish pulled from the ...
... sea by a few of the local fishermen who still fish the coasts off Tossa de Mar.

There is a lot more to Tossa than just the beach. The village has a rich history of local arts, and, when you get away from the tourist bric a brac you can find beautiful pieces of locally made art for just a fraction of the cost that you would have to pay on the beach.

There are also a whole host of festivals and events that take place every year but rarely coincide with the height of tourist season. The National Day of Catalunya takes place on the 11th September, whilst the Night of Saint Joan is celebrated on the 23rd and 24th of June. Some great events take place throughout the year, so check before you head out.

Moving away from the sea, the land around Tossa is rich and fertile and the locals claim to have over a hundred species of medicinal plants growing in the hills around the village. A walk in the woodlands is a lovely way to spend a hot afternoon in the shade of the trees and won''t be too taxing.

Tossa de Mar is accessed through Girona airport (which also services Barcelona) but there are good transport links. Tossa offers an amazing beach holiday, but retains its authentic Spanish culture, particularly outside of the tourist season. Bonny Kominek, freelance travel writer, recommends Octopus Travel for Tossa de Mar hotels and travel solutions to suit all budgets.