When we talk about the Costa Brava, if there is one superb natural location that steals the show, it is undoubtedly the Medes Islands. Want to find out what awaits you?
Of all the landscapes that come to mind when you think of the Costa Brava, you can be sure that among the most spectacular are the Medes Islands.
With its incomparable wild beauty, it has become an iconic landscape with a rich, varied and unique fauna in the whole of Europe that make it well worthy of our attention.
We are not the only ones to say this, as in 2010 it was listed as the best Marine Reserve in the Western Mediterranean when, together with the Montgrí Massif and the Baix Ter, the Natural Park of which they form part was created.
Thus, the towns of L’Estartit and Torroella de Montgrí become very interesting destinations due to the rich natural heritage that surrounds them, apart from all the holiday options you can find.
The Medes Islands are the ideal setting for lovers of nature activities in the open air. The range of options is endless and adapted to all levels of fitness, so everyone can enjoy sport in this superb location.
To put you in the picture, you should know that the Medes Islands are an archipelago just one mile off the beach of L’Estartit formed by 7 islets of different sizes, each with unique characteristics.
As we have already mentioned, it is a protected area, which means any activity carried out there must be regulated under the rules of the Natural Park.
However, the possibilities are endless and we will now show you the options you have to fully enjoy this unique natural space while respecting it at all times.
ccccccIt is no coincidence that this site is one of the main European beacons for diving enthusiasts. Scuba diving in the Medes Islands is more than just a mere dive.
The well-preserved marine fauna is a true spectacle to behold, as few areas have such an impressive biodiversity: Gorgonians, red coral, marine sponges, porcelain sponges, moray eels and groupers, nudibranchs, starfish, octopus and many other species.
What’s more, during the dive you will come across a dance of lights caused by the sun’s rays entering the water and passing through several tunnels and rock caves, generating the contrasts of a very wide palette of blues.
Among other curiosities to be seen during the dive, we highlight the remains of two vessels that sank over the course of the 20th century, now for the more adventurous to visit them.
The different depths of the archipelago mean that professionals and amateurs alike, even beginners, have the opportunity to enjoy the wonders of this seabed.
There are several companies that help you do this activity, following the regulations and in total safety, such as Calypso, Xaloc Diving Center, Unisub Estartit or Diving Center La Sirena.
If scuba diving doesn’t quite convince you, you can always try another sport: snorkelling.
Without the need for as much technical knowledge as is required for a dive, this modality will allow you to discover and view the seabed from the water’s surface in a calm and serene manner.
Do you plan to snorkel in the Medes Islands? Here are some companies that offer you the chance to go on a guided snorkelling trip so that you don’t miss any detail about the area’s flora and fauna: Medaqua, Aquatica-Sub and Aquatica.
Paddling to the Medes Islands is a beautiful way to combine sport, nature and adventure, but watch out! Although from the beach it looks like they are just around the corner, don’t forget that there is just over a kilometre between the nearest islet and the beach!
Along the way, you will discover the beauty of the façade of the islets, featuring cliffs, small caves and natural coves of great beauty, as well as part of the fauna and flora of the archipelago.
There are two options for this type of outing. The first is to go on a guided tour that will allow you to get in-depth knowledge of why this area is so important for the Costa Brava, and the truth is that it is a highly recommended option.
If you prefer, you can also rent the kayaks and make your own route to discover the islands at your own pace and devote your attention to the spots you want to see.
Be that as it may, these are some of the companies to go on a kayak trip around the Medes Islands: Kayaking Costa Brava, Club Nàutic de l’Estartit and Medaqua.
All of the above options are great if you like to cool off and get first-hand experience of this spectacular environment.
If you are not into thrills and adventures and you prefer to contemplate the beauty of the Medes Islands in a calmer manner without having to change your clothes, a boat trip is the best option for you.
Here we propose three boat trips in the Medes Islands so that you can choose the one that best suits your needs. They are all amazing!
Catamarans are ideal boats to have a good time with the family while you admire the fascinating views of the Medes Islands and relax thanks to the comfort this type of boat can offer.
Stability in navigation, tables and chairs, slides to ride down for a dip and cool off and, best of all, a panoramic view of the seabed thanks to the sea windows they have are just some of the comforts you can find on these boats.
If you fancy a catamaran trip you can consult the different excursion proposed by companies such as Excursions Marítimes Núria, Mare Nostrum Cruises or Nautilus.
Who has never dreamed of being a sailor? I’m sure almost everyone has, at least once. Well, you can make this dream come true by sailing around the Medes Islands thanks to the schooner The Black Corsair of Nautilus.
It is a unique, handcrafted boat in Catalonia that simulates a pirate ship. During the trip, which lasts approximately three hours, you will visit the Nature Reserve of the Medes Islands and the Montgrí Coast in the Three Caves, until you reach Falger, where you will enjoy a refreshing dip in the Costa Brava’s crystal-clear waters.
All the information about this thrilling adventure is on its website. Not to be missed!
If what you want is to ply around the Medes Islands, the rugged coast of Montgrí and the Costa Brava in general at your own pace, another option is to rent a private boat.
In L’Estartit you can find a large number of companies for boat and motorboat rentals, whether you have a licence or not, so that no one misses the gentle sea breeze in your face and the beauty of this unique area of the planet.
Here are some names, such as L’Estartit Rent a Boat, Medes Islands Rent a Boat, SamBoat or Club Náutico Estartit, but don’t hesitate to look for more if they don’t convince you!
You can also charter private boats with crew for a carefree, private evening, with Top Sailing Charter.
Once you know everything you can do in the Medes Islands, all you need to know is where to stay! Below is a list of the campsites closest to the Medes Islands, all centres of fun, relaxation, nature and sport. Want to discover them?
The Camping El Delfín Verde is one of the leading European campsites thanks to its varied facilities and wide range of accommodation.
You can find fully equipped bungalows, plots and camping areas, and even caravanning space, and all this in a campsite located right on the beach in Torroella de Montgrí, next to the Medes Islands.
In addition, the campsite has its own its own water park as well as a huge number of activities for young and old. All in all, it is the ideal campsite for families who want to have fun and make new friends!
Open all year round, the Camping Les Medes is a campsite that stands out for its friendly and approachable service, making you feel at home in one of the most beautiful natural spots on the Costa Brava.
In addition, they offer you the possibility to make dives and learn to scuba dive, plus a bicycle rental service, both normal and electric, so that you can make the most of the area.
The small camping Empordà is ideal for families who like sport, physical activity and contact with nature.
Located very close to the beach, it offers you unique sports facilities and an ideal location for both walking and cycling routes to soak up the essence of the Mediterranean.
With endless facilities for young and old alike, a wide range of activities for all ages and a water feature with three swimming pools, Camping Castell de Montgrí completes a splendid formula for your holidays.
This also makes it appear, year after year, in the rankings of the best European campsites. This campsite has a wide range of accommodation and plots plus a large number of restaurants and services so that you have everything you need during your stay.
The aim of the small family campsite of Rifort is to make it possible for everyone to enjoy the surroundings and relax with all the comforts at their disposal.
That’s why they have generous plots, so that each family can settle in the most comfortable way and admire the beauty of L’Estartit. Plus, they offer plenty of activities to keep you entertained all day long and bring a smile to your face that will last well beyond your stay!
Camping L’Estartit is located just 350 metres from L’Estartit beach in a superb location surrounded by trees and the natural landscape.
This unbeatable location and all the services you can find at the campsite make it the ideal choice if you are looking for a pleasant, quiet and peaceful holiday in a more secluded environment.
To make the most of your experience in the Medes Islands, we recommend that you check the weather forecast to ensure a sunny day that allows you to enjoy the views at their best.
The Medes Islands and L’Estartit make for a great example of Mediterranean climate where it is usually mild enough to be enjoyed all year round, although the holiday options are always greater in summer.
Now you know everything you need to know about the Medes Islands! Come and discover why it is such a special place and is always recommended in all the tourist guides. Still need more reasons?
