Discover Cadaqués, Spain. This former fishing village promises a cultural and unspoiled journey. Tempted to visit Cadaqués? This excursion to the Alt Empordà region is only 63 km from our campsite in Argelès-sur-Mer!
Key Highlights
- Cadaqués, a bohemian village on the Costa Brava.
- Heritage & Art: cobbled streets, Catalan Modernism, Santa María Church, Dalí’s house-museum, galleries, and café terraces.
- Nature: Cap de Creus Natural Park.
- Water activities: kayaking, boating, diving, paddleboarding, windsurfing.
- Beaches: Portlligat, Sa Conca, Cala Jugadora.
- Gastronomy: suquet de peix, seafood, D.O. Empordà wines...
Stroll Through the Historic Heart of Cadaqués
The slate-paved alleyways of Cadaqués wind their way through the village, lined with immaculate white houses accented by touches of blue—the signature style of Empordà. Along the way, you’ll spot elements of early 20th-century Catalan Modernism, such as the Casa Serinyana. Then, make your way up to the Santa María Church (13th century), which overlooks the bay! Inside, admire its gilded Baroque altarpiece before enjoying a panoramic view. Don’t forget to take a break on a terrace in the Plaça des Poal!
In the Footsteps of Salvador Dalí
Your stay near Cadaqués in Spain calls for a surreal experience! Head to Portlligat, a peaceful cove just a 20-minute walk from the village. This is where the Catalan painter Salvador Dalí lived, making this house-museum his only stable home and creative refuge. The site, a labyrinthine assemblage of former fishermen’s huts, contains an interior filled with quirky objects, such as the jewel-adorned stuffed bear that awaits you in the entrance hall! Outside, the iconic giant eggs and the whimsical swimming pool reflect the artist’s taste for extravagance. Dalí adored the light of Cadaqués, which he considered essential to his surrealist paintings. The landscape of Cap de Creus nourished his imagination, inspiring him to transform its cliffs into soft, dreamlike forms. Dalí’s spirit lives on through the workshops and contemporary galleries of Cadaqués, including the Sala d'Art Maria Ekengren.
Discover the Wild Nature of Cap de Creus
The Cap de Creus Natural Park is a rocky peninsula where the mountains plunge into the Mediterranean. The wind has shaped the slate formations, creating a uniquely rugged landscape on the Costa Brava! The coastline is richly varied: small coves, sharp cliffs, and tiny islets. Get ready for a full immersion in raw nature during your outdoor activities in Cadaqués, Spain!
Hiking the GR11
Lace up your shoes properly! Starting from the Cap de Creus lighthouse, this legendary GR11 hike, known as the Senda Pirenaica, marks the easternmost point of the Iberian Peninsula. Between sky and sea, the light of Empordà illuminates every step you take. As you make your way toward Port de la Selva over nearly 15 kilometers, the trail reveals a raw and mineral landscape shaped by the wind and the sea. Between cliffs, secluded coves, and spectacular views of the Mediterranean, your hike offers a true concentration of untouched nature. Allow around 4 hours and 30 minutes for a 460 m elevation gain on a demanding but unforgettable route.
Boat or Kayak Excursions
The best way to admire the cliffs and secluded coves of Cap de Creus is from the sea! Consider kayaking or joining a guided boat trip—many depart from the port of Cadaqués. We recommend booking these activities before your trip to Spain, especially between May and September.
Enjoy the Beaches and Secret Coves
The beaches of Cadaqués, Spain are truly unique! They are often made up of pebbles or gravel, which ensures crystal-clear water and unforgettable swims.
Must-See Beaches in Cadaqués
- Portlligat Beach: a calm, intimate bay located right next to Salvador Dalí’s house-museum.
- Sa Conca Beach: close to the port of Cadaqués and easy to access for a peaceful swim.
- Cala Jugadora: nestled in the Cap de Creus Natural Park, this is a stunning little cove of the Costa Brava.
Water Activities in Cadaqués
The bay of Cadaqués is an extraordinary playground for sea lovers:
- Try an introductory scuba dive to explore the seabed of the Costa Brava!
- Stand-up paddleboarding is perfect for gliding over the calm waters.
- Windsurfing will help you navigate between the islets.
Taste the Flavors of Empordà
The cuisine of Cadaqués, Spain promises a real feast, celebrating both the sea and the terroir of Alt Empordà. Don’t miss the traditional dishes and the best foodie spots in the region!
Local Specialties
It would be unthinkable to travel from Argelès-sur-Mer to Cadaqués without trying an authentic suquet de peix! This fish stew is enriched with a picada made from almonds and saffron. Fresh seafood—such as grilled squid (calamars a la planxa)—is a staple of the local cuisine. On the land side, fruity olive oils and D.O. Empordà wines are essentials.
Typical Restaurants
Where can you try these specialties? Cadaqués is full of restaurants, especially around the bay. Look for seaside spots for breathtaking views! Places like Talla Cadaqués or Can Rafa are renowned for their exceptional cuisine. And don’t forget: on the Costa Brava, the sunset ritual is sacred—it's the perfect moment to settle on a terrace.
Practical Tips for Planning Your Visit to Cadaqués
A trip to Cadaqués in Spain requires a bit of logistical planning.
When to Visit Cadaqués?
For a peaceful trip, choose spring or autumn. Summer is very busy, making traffic and parking difficult. In the low season, temperatures are mild and you can fully enjoy the best activities this Spanish town has to offer.
How to Get to and Around Cadaqués
To reach Cadaqués from our seaside campsite in Argelès-sur-Mer, you have three options:
- The AP-7,
- The D914,
- The GI-614.
Be careful on the road—it can be very winding.
Parking can be tricky. The large car park at the entrance to the village fills up very quickly. When it is full, local police sometimes restrict access to Cadaqués altogether! For your Spanish getaway, we recommend the SABA Riera de Sant Vicenç parking lot. Located 600 meters from the historic center, it allows you to explore the town stress-free.
This adventure is easily accessible by car from France! A full day in Cadaqués calls for a comfortable base. Our campsite in the Pyrénées-Orientales is the perfect place to unwind. Relax in our aquatic area after your getaway on the Costa Brava! Start planning your stay today and book your pitch or accommodation!