What to do in Empuriabrava?

Discover the beauty of this Costa Brava gem with a hot air balloon ride with Airona

Empuriabrava, located on the stunning Costa Brava, is a unique destination that combines natural beauty with a rich variety of leisure and cultural activities. What makes it stand out is not only its incredible network of navigable canals but also its relaxed atmosphere, golden sandy beaches, and its proximity to beautiful natural surroundings. If you’re wondering what to do in Empuriabrava, one of the most recommended experiences is to enjoy a hot air balloon ride with Airona, allowing you to see the majesty of this town from an entirely different perspective.

Empuriabrava: The “Venice of the Costa Brava”

Often called the “Venice of the Costa Brava,” Empuriabrava is a unique spot in the province of Girona, in the Alt Empordà region. Its network of canals, stretching over 23 kilometers, makes it the largest residential marina in Europe, designed for homes to have direct access to the water. Walking through the streets or, better yet, navigating its canals, you’ll find luxurious houses with private docks, giving the area an exclusive and sophisticated feel.

The town was built in the 1960s as a luxury tourist development and has since attracted both national and international visitors. Although Empuriabrava is modern and focused on tourism, it has managed to maintain a balance with nature, as evidenced by its location in the heart of the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park. This protected area is home to a rich biodiversity and offers hiking and birdwatching routes for nature lovers.

Beaches and nature in Empuriabrava

One of the main attractions of Empuriabrava is its beaches. The main beach, stretching for about 1.5 kilometers, is perfect for relaxing in the sun, taking a dip in the Mediterranean, or enjoying water sports like windsurfing or kitesurfing. In addition, its proximity to the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park offers visitors the opportunity to combine beach days with nature walks, where you can spot flamingos, storks, and many other species.

For those who love hiking and cycling, there are also trails along the park that offer panoramic views of the wetlands and the coast. Empuriabrava is an excellent destination for those looking to alternate between the tranquility of the sea and the adventure of nature.

History and culture of Empuriabrava and its surroundings

Although Empuriabrava is modern in design, the Alt Empordà region is steeped in history. Just a few minutes away by car, you can visit medieval villages like Castelló d’Empúries, which was the capital of the County of Empúries during the Middle Ages. Its cobbled streets, the majestic Gothic church of Santa Maria, known as the “Cathedral of the Empordà,” and the old Jewish quarter transport visitors to another era. This town is also the perfect starting point to explore other nearby historical sites, such as Peralada and Figueres, where the famous Dalí Theatre-Museum is located.

What to do in Empuriabrava: A hot air balloon ride with Airona

While Empuriabrava offers many activities, one stands out in particular: a hot air balloon ride with Airona. This experience will allow you to enjoy the city and its surroundings from a completely new perspective. The panoramic view offered by the balloon will give you a deeper appreciation of Empuriabrava’s beauty, its canals, and the natural landscape around it.

The balloon flight with Airona typically takes place in the early hours of the morning, allowing you to enjoy the sunrise as you gently rise above the town. From the balloon, you’ll see the winding canals, houses that seem to float on water, the beach stretching out to the sea, and, in the distance, the towering Pyrenees mountains. It’s a unique opportunity to appreciate the connection between humans and nature that defines this region.

In addition, flying with Airona gives you the chance to explore the area on a broader scale, as the flight also covers nearby places like the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park and, on clear days, even the distant Pyrenees. Airona’s professional team ensures a safe and relaxing experience, making this activity suitable for all types of travelers.

Conclusion

Empuriabrava is a destination that offers much more than what you might expect at first glance. From its famous canal network to its beaches and natural surroundings, this town has everything needed for a perfect holiday. However, if there is one activity that stands out above the rest, it’s the hot air balloon ride with Airona. This experience not only allows you to discover the magic of Empuriabrava from the sky but also provides unforgettable memories of your visit to the Costa Brava. If you’re wondering what to do in Empuriabrava, look no further: the adventure awaits in the air!