Published on
September 6, 2025
Italy may be famed for the Amalfi Coast, but along Spain’s Costa Brava lies Cadaqués, a hidden seaside paradise that mirrors the same Mediterranean charm with its whitewashed houses, blue-shuttered streets, and breathtaking coastal views. Unlike the crowded resorts that draw millions each summer, this tranquil town remains off the radar for most British holidaymakers, offering a rare chance to enjoy serene beaches, artistic heritage, and authentic Catalonian culture without the overwhelming tourist rush.
A Hidden Summer Gem on the Costa Brava
After months of eagerly waiting for our summer trip abroad, the long-anticipated day finally arrived. This year’s destination was Cadaqués, a picturesque town tucked along the rugged Costa Brava coastline. Just under three hours from Barcelona, this hidden corner of Catalonia felt like stepping into a dream—a world where time slows down and natural beauty meets cultural richness.
A Town Like a Painting
From the very first moment, Cadaqués felt almost unreal, as though it had been lifted straight from a canvas. Nestled between rolling hills and the deep-blue Mediterranean, the town is a masterpiece of whitewashed houses accented with bright blue shutters and winding cobbled streets. Its charm immediately brought to mind places like Mykonos in Greece or the Amalfi Coast in Italy, yet it remained entirely unique in its atmosphere.
What makes Cadaqués stand apart is its intimacy. With a population of around 3,000, it has the feel of a close-knit community where faces are familiar and life moves at a slower, gentler rhythm. Unlike other crowded summer resorts, it never loses this sense of calm. Even during the last week of August, a time when many coastal towns are overflowing with tourists, the streets were filled with locals rather than holidaymakers.
Staying at the Heart of the Town
Our accommodation was perfectly placed in the town center. This location proved invaluable, as everything in Cadaqués is within walking distance. The beach, small shops, and lively evening spots were all just minutes away, which gave us the freedom to move around with ease. The town’s compact size is one of its greatest strengths—it invites you to slow down and immerse yourself fully without needing complicated plans or schedules.
Getting Around in Unique Ways
One detail that sets Cadaqués apart is the absence of traditional taxis. Instead, residents rely on personal cars, bicycles, or scooters to get around. For visitors, this creates an added layer of authenticity, since the town avoids the constant hum of taxi traffic found in other coastal destinations. And for moments when travel by land isn’t practical—such as reaching a boat anchored beyond easy walking distance—there are private boat taxis available. This mix of land and sea transport reflects the town’s close connection to its maritime heritage.
Exploring Beyond Cadaqués
While the town itself can be comfortably explored in a single day, Cadaqués also serves as a gateway to other nearby gems. The villages of Roses, Figueres, and Empuriabrava are just half an hour away by car, each offering a distinct glimpse into Catalonia’s varied character. This makes Cadaqués an ideal base for day trips, where you can blend tranquil mornings in town with explorations further afield.
For those with an adventurous streak, the Costa Brava coastline provides endless opportunities for water sports. Jet skiing, paragliding, and the always-entertaining banana boat rides bring a burst of adrenaline to balance out the serenity. It’s a side of Cadaqués that ensures the town appeals not only to those seeking peace but also to those chasing excitement.
An Artistic Soul
Cadaqués is not only about scenery and leisure—it also carries a fascinating artistic legacy. The surrealist painter Salvador Dalí, one of Catalonia’s most celebrated figures, spent much of his time here. His family’s former home, now open to visitors, offers an intimate glimpse into his life and work for a modest entry fee. Beyond Cadaqués itself, the nearby town of Figueres is home to the Dalí Theatre-Museum, one of the most striking cultural institutions in Spain. Visiting both sites creates a journey into the surrealist world that shaped 20th-century art.
This connection to Dalí has left a lasting impression on Cadaqués, with many artists over the years drawn to its landscapes, light, and creative energy. Walking its streets, it’s easy to understand why the town continues to inspire those who come in search of beauty.
A Lasting Impression
After four days in Cadaqués, it became clear that this small coastal town has a rare kind of magic. It offers the quiet rhythms of village life, the visual drama of the Mediterranean coastline, and the cultural depth of an artistic heritage that continues to resonate. Unlike larger destinations where attractions overwhelm, Cadaqués balances simplicity with enough variety to make every day meaningful.
Strolling through its narrow alleys, watching the waves crash gently against the shore, or taking a short drive to nearby villages—all of these moments weave together into an experience that lingers long after leaving.
The Perfect Escape
Italy may boast the Amalfi Coast, but Spain’s hidden gem Cadaqués offers the same breathtaking Mediterranean beauty while remaining unknown to most UK holidaymakers.
For travelers seeking a summer destination that combines natural charm, cultural richness, and a peaceful atmosphere, Cadaqués stands out as a place worth discovering. It may be small in size, but it delivers in abundance—offering tranquility, beauty, and just the right amount of adventure. Whether you’re drawn by its art, its coastline, or its village charm, Cadaqués is a destination that captures the heart and stays with you, long after the trip has ended.
