Costa Brava

Tossa de Mar throws up two Blue Flag beauties for starters. Take your pick from the gloriously golden Platja Gran and the rocky La Mar Menuda – a sun-soaked spot that’s superb for snorkelling. Lloret’s main beach is all geared up for full-on fun in the sun, while Santa Cristina is fab for families thanks to its sheltered sands and calm waters. If it’s pine-fringed coves and secluded spots you’re seeking, head north up the coast and spend your days beach hopping along the blissful bays.

In Lloret, there are attractions aplenty to keep everyone well entertained. Things get wet and wild at action-packed Water World and the little ones will love Gnomo Park – a woodland wonderland of playgrounds, games and activities. And don't miss Platja d'Aro's Magic Park, where there's a Ferris wheel, bumper cars and arcade machines to while away the hours with.

With its rugged mountain landscape and crystalline waters, there are boundless opportunities to get active on the Costa Brava. Lying in the foothills of the Pyrenees, the dramatic terrain lends itself to an array of scenic walking trails and challenging cycling routes. The Cap de Creus National Park is a great place for a hike or to explore by bike. Out on the water, adrenaline-junkies will love Lloret as anything goes, from jet-skiing to parasailing. Roses is the place for windsurfing and if diving’s your thing, make a beeline for the Illes Medes in L’Estartit, where underwater adventures await.

Along with the highest concentration of Michelin stars in all of Spain, this region is also home to one of the world’s best restaurants: El Celler de Can Roca in Girona. Authentic Catalan fare is a fusion of food from the mountains and fresh fish from the sea. Mar i muntanya – a stew of meatballs and cuttlefish – is a local speciality. The lush mountain valleys are also home to flourishing vineyards that produce cava. Why not take a tour and bag a few bottles to take home? Tossa de Mar’s Old Town is a great place for a range of atmospheric alfresco eateries, while Platja d’Aro is a picture-perfect setting for sophisticated waterfront dining.

Serious shoppers hit the streets of cosmopolitan Platja d'Aro for chic boutiques and designer shops. The super cool El Secret Market runs throughout July and delights stylish shoppers with its eclectic mix of vintage finds, boutique gifts and gourmet food. Tossa de Mar’s traditional Old Town shops specialise in kitsch knick-knacks and handmade ceramics. Most of the seaside towns around here have weekly markets where you can discover the local delicacies and pick up some snazzy souvenirs for bargain prices.

May

Marking the start of spring, the streets of Girona are in full bloom for the annual flower show. Spectacular displays, fragrant scents and explosions of colour will stir your senses.

June

The wild waves of Roses play host to an annual windsurfing competition organised by the Professional Windsurfing Association. See expert surfers ride the tide in style. July

For a taste of tradition, join the locals in Tossa de Mar to celebrate the Sardanas Festival – a true Catalan carnival of dance, music and food is on the cards. And July sees the start of free weekly jazz nights on Platja d'Aro’s beach.

August

Just north of Platja d'Aro is where to catch the Cap Roig Festival. Taking place in beautiful botanical gardens, this exciting event has seen famous faces from the likes of Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett to British rock star, Sting. If opera’s more your thing, head to Peralada for a stunning programme of classical music in a unique castle setting.

September

In L’Estartit, September celebrates an interesting local tradition. During the Habanera festival, the townsfolk sing sea shanties and drink burnt rum on the beach while they party into the night.

October

If you like a tipple or two, make sure you check out Platja d’Aro’s annual beer festival. Sample the showcase of the region’s best brews with some tasty tapas.