Roses

Roses, on the Catalan Costa Brava, provides convenient access to the Cap de Creus natural park, where wild coves such as Montjoi and Rostella lie around thirty minutes away by car and reward visitors with peaceful swimming spots and snorkelling, water shoes advised due to the pebbly seabed. The town's fortified citadel overlooking the bay pairs well with a visit to the Greco-Roman archaeological site of Empúries nearby. The beaches of Santa Margarita, Canyelles Petites and Canyelles Grosses, along with Empuriabrava, make for good swimming by day and pleasant evening strolls. The surrounding area also lends itself to hiking, whether through the Canyelles mountains or towards the Sant Pere de Rodes monastery, reached via a trail lined with dolmens and menhirs. A small tourist train offers an original way to take in the surrounding hills, while scooter hire, horse riding, and boat or catamaran trips add further variety. Nearby Cadaqués and Dalí's house in Portlligat are well worth the detour, as is Figueres with its museum dedicated to the artist. For dining, Txot's, found in Roses and neighbouring towns, is a popular choice for its friendly atmosphere.