Costa Brava isn't just about beautiful beaches and picturesque bays. The region is also famous for its extraordinary botanical gardens, which are true oases of tranquility and beauty. One of the finest is the Jardí Botànic Marimurtra in Blanes, founded in 1921 by German entrepreneur and botanist Karl Faust. Spanning more than 4 hectares, this spectacular garden is home to more than 4,000 plant species from around the world, with a particular focus on Mediterranean, subtropical and Central American flora.

Jardí Botànic Marimurtra is located on a cliff with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Walking along the winding paths, one can admire not only exotic plants, but also architectural gems such as the Templet de Linné, a classical Greek temple dedicated to Charles Linnaeus, the famous Swedish botanist. The garden is divided into three main zones: Mediterranean, subtropical and temperate, which allows observation of a variety of ecosystems. Especially impressive is the collection of cacti and succulents, one of the largest in Europe. Ticket prices are mid-range, and there are special discounts for children, making this an ideal place for a family trip.

A little further south, in Lloret de Mar, are the equally fascinating Gardens of Saint Clotilde. Designed in the 1920s by Nicolau Maria Rubió and Tudurí, these neoclassical gardens are an excellent example of the Italian Renaissance style. Located on a cliff overlooking Boadella Bay, the gardens are stunning with their symmetrical arrangements, marble sculptures and carefully trimmed hedges. Unlike Marimurtra, which focuses on botanical diversity, the Gardens of Saint Clotilde attracts above all with its architectural harmony and elegance.

Interestingly, the gardens are named after Saint Clotilde, the patron saint of the daughter of the Marquis of Roviralta, who commissioned their creation. As you walk around, you may come across numerous sculptures depicting figures from Greek and Roman mythology, which adds a mysterious, almost mystical feel to the place. Particularly charming are the stairs leading down the cliff, offering ever-new vantage points. Ticket prices are affordable, and special packages are available for families.

Both gardens are a great alternative to the beach, especially during the peak heat hours. They are also a great place for children, who can not only relax here in the shade, but also learn to identify different plant species and learn about the history of the region. It's a good idea to plan a visit to these gardens for the morning or late afternoon, when temperatures are cooler and the light is ideal for photography. Both the Jardí Botànic Marimurtra and the Gardens of Saint Clotilde are open most of the year, although opening hours may vary depending on the season.

Costa Brava, with its strategic location on the Mediterranean coast, has seen numerous conflicts and invasions over the centuries. Traces of this turbulent history can be found in the impressive castles and fortifications that still tower over the region today. One of the most monumental is the Castell de Sant Ferran in Figueres, the largest fortress in Europe dating back to the 18th century and one of the most important military monuments in the world.

Built between 1753 and 1766, Castell de Sant Ferran covers an impressive 32 hectares and its walls have a circumference of more than 3 kilometers. This gigantic fortress was designed by military engineer Juan Martín Cermeño as a response to the French threat. A tour of this colossal complex is a true trip back in time. Particularly fascinating are the underground water cisterns, which can be explored by boat - a unique attraction that delights children and adults alike. The fortress walls offer spectacular views of the city of Figueres, the surrounding Pyrenees mountains and the Empordà plain. Ticket prices are mid-range, and special discounts are provided for children.

On a completely different note is Montgrí Castle, picturesquely located on top of the Montgrí massif, between the Empordà plain and the coast. This medieval castle, begun in 1294 during the reign of King James II of Aragon, was never completed, which gives it a special austere charm. Nonetheless, its distinctive silhouette dominates the area and can be seen from miles around.

Getting to the castle requires a short but fairly steep climb, making the trip more suitable for families with slightly older children. However, the effort is lavishly rewarded - the castle walls offer one of the most magnificent views on the Costa Brava, encompassing the Bay of Roses, the Medes Islands and the Pyrenees mountain range. According to local legend, the castle was meant to serve as a defense against pirates who regularly raided the coast. Admission to the castle is free, making it an attractive option for families traveling on a tight budget.

On the coast, in the charming town of Tossa de Mar, are the impressive Muralles de Tossa de Mar - medieval fortification walls surrounding the old part of the town, known as Vila Vella. These perfectly preserved fortifications from the 12th century, with seven watchtowers, are the only example of a fortified medieval town surviving on the Catalan coast. A walk along the walls is not only a history lesson, but also an opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of the bay and surrounding cliffs.

Vila Vella, surrounded by these walls, is a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets with white houses and flowers in pots, creating an atmosphere like a fairy tale. In the center is the former parish church from the 14th century, now converted into a museum. According to local legend, hidden within the walls is a treasure left by pirates, which is sure to spark the imagination of the youngest explorers. There is a fee to enter the walls, but the prices are affordable and the views are priceless.

Each of these fortifications offers a unique experience and perspective on the history of the region. While the Castell de Sant Ferran impresses with its grandeur and military genius, Montgrí Castle captivates with its austere beauty and panoramic views, and the Muralles de Tossa de Mar take us back in time to a medieval port city. All of these sites are accessible for most of the year, although in the case of Montgrí Castle, it is advisable to avoid climbing during the hottest days of summer.

Costa Brava is a region that has inspired artists for centuries with its extraordinary light, dramatic landscapes and rich culture. One of the region's most important cultural landmarks is the monumental Girona Cathedral, whose construction began in the 11th century and was not completed until the 18th century. This impressive temple combines various architectural styles - from Romanesque to Gothic to Baroque - to create a unique testimony to the evolution of European sacred architecture.

The cathedral's most distinctive feature is its huge Gothic nave, which with a width of 23 meters is the second widest in the world, second only to St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. Inside you can admire priceless works of art, including the Romanesque 'Carpet of Creation' from the 12th century - a unique fabric depicting scenes from the Book of Genesis. Also a fascinating feature of the cathedral is the 'Stairway to Paradise' - a monumental 90-step staircase leading to the main entrance that has become one of the city's symbols and a popular photo spot. According to local legend, the staircase symbolizes the way to heaven, with each step representing one of the virtues that a believer should practice.

Ticket prices for the cathedral are at an average level, and there are discounts for children. It's also worth taking an audio guide, which explains the rich history and symbolism of the place in an accessible way. The cathedral is open year-round, although visiting hours may vary depending on the season.

A completely different kind of cultural adventure is offered at El Gran Museu de la Màgia in Santa Cristina d'Aro. This unique museum is dedicated to the history of illusion and magic, displaying an extensive collection of props, posters, costumes and equipment used by illusionists throughout the ages. Founded by a magic enthusiast, the museum is housed in a historic building and offers a fascinating journey through the world of tricks and optical illusions.

The museum is particularly attractive to families with children, who can not only view the exhibits, but also participate in interactive shows and workshops. There are regular performances by professional illusionists, which delight both the youngest and adult audiences. Ticket prices are affordable, and special packages are available for family groups.

It is worth mentioning that the Costa Brava region is inextricably linked to the figure of Salvador Dali, one of the most famous surrealists of the 20th century, who was born in Figueres and drew inspiration from the local landscapes. Although his famous museum in Figueres is not on our list, it is a natural addition to a cultural tour of the region. The surreal rock formations in the Cap de Creus Natural Park, which appear so often in his paintings, can be enjoyed on boat trips or hikes.

The Costa Brava is also a region rich in local traditions and festivals. One of the most fascinating is the Whitsun Carnival in Begur, during which the entire town, including children, takes part in a game of throwing cut paper at each other. This unique tradition, which dates back to the Middle Ages, is an excellent example of the region's living folk culture.

Also worth mentioning is the Camí de Ronda trail, a historic path along the coast that was originally used by coastal guards to patrol and prevent smuggling. Today, this scenic trail offers some of the most beautiful views of the coast and is ideal for family strolls, combining active recreation with a lesson in history and admiring nature. Particularly charming sections are between Calella de Palafrugell and Llafranc, as well as around Tamariu and Sa Tuna.