Catalan Coast SwimHike - Spain, Spain

TRIP OVERVIEW

Trip Dates

2027

06 Jun - 12 Jun	Available
13 Jun - 19 Jun	Available
12 Sep - 18 Sep	Available
19 Sep - 25 Sep	Available

2028

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Tour Highlights

Explore the wild Catalan Coast from both water and land, combining spectacular morning swims with afternoon hikes along its rugged Mediterranean shoreline
Swim up to 3 kilometres each day, through clear blue waters between secluded coves, sweeping beaches and pine-covered headlands
Hike the historic Camí de Ronda and GR 92 trails, following dramatic coastal paths to hidden bays, panoramic viewpoints and fascinating historic sites
Experience the same coastline from two completely different perspectives – looking up at rugged cliffs from the water before climbing above them for far-reaching views from the trail

The Catalan Coast is one of the Mediterranean’s great coastal playgrounds, where pine-covered hills tumble towards clear blue waters and historic fishing villages are tucked between rocky headlands and secluded coves. This spectacular northern stretch of coastline is also known as the Costa Brava – the ‘wild’ or ‘rugged coast’ – a name inspired by its dramatic natural landscape. Based in the beautiful seaside village of Llafranc, this SwimHike explores the region from both the water and its famous coastal trails.

Our swims journey between sheltered bays and remote beaches, following rugged shorelines that reveal hidden coves, rocky reefs and dramatic cliffs along the way. We swim beneath the landmark Sant Sebastià lighthouse, explore the protected waters around Ses Negres, and journey between picturesque coastal villages including Tamariu, Llafranc and Aiguablava. Further south, we discover the wonderfully undeveloped coastline surrounding Cap Roig and Platja de Castell, where Mediterranean pine forest reaches almost to the water’s edge.

Catalan

Back on land, we lace up our hiking boots and take to the Camí de Ronda, the historic coastal trails that weave close to the shoreline. Many of these paths now form part of the GR 92 Mediterranean Trail, a long-distance footpath spanning up to 583 kilometres along Spain's beautiful Mediterranean coast. Our hikes lead us through fragrant pine forests, over rugged headlands and down into secluded coves, with far-reaching views across the sea. Along the way, we discover the region’s rich history, from the medieval Sant Esteve de Mar Castle to the ancient settlement and watchtower overlooking the waves at Sant Sebastià.

Each day brings a new perspective on the Catalan Coast, combining a morning swim with an afternoon on the trails. One moment we are looking up at towering cliffs and forested hillsides from the water. A few hours later we may be standing high above them, peering back across the coastline we have just explored.

With colourful fishing villages, hidden beaches and rewarding viewpoints connecting our journeys, this is a wonderful way to experience the wild beauty of the Catalan Coast from both water and land.

Who is this trip for?

We have given this trip a 'Moderate' grading for swimming, and also a 'Moderate' grading for hiking.

This trip is ideal for swimmers who want to experience more of the destination beyond the water, combining rewarding fully supported coastal swims with scenic guided afternoon hikes. With one swim and one hike on most days, it offers plenty of variety while keeping open water swimming at the heart of the trip. It’s also a great option for anyone considering their first swimming holiday but unsure about committing to two swims each day.

Swimmers should have a good level of fitness and be comfortable swimming around 3km in open water. While conditions are often calm, the exposed nature of parts of the Catalan Coast means we may occasionally experience some waves and swell, adding a little variety to our open water swims. Our hikes follow a mixture of coastal and woodland trails, including sections of the Camí de Ronda and GR 92, with uneven and rocky terrain, steps, and regular climbs and descents. You should have good general walking fitness and be comfortable hiking for several hours over varied terrain.

Swimmers should have a basic understanding of open water swimming and be capable of completing the average swim distance and average daily swim distance prior to the start of the trip.

Are you a Pioneer?

We are excited to share our entirely new Catalan Coast SwimHike trip for an action-packed 2027 of adventures. Our first departures will be Pioneer Departures. These are perfect for those who want to get out first to experience the relatively unexplored waters that await us. You will have the opportunity to explore the destination in-depth with an amazing group of swimmers, opening our eyes to the possibilities for future trips.

What's included?

Swim guides and full safety escort on all swims (swimmers only)
Professional hiking guide on all hikes (swimmers only)
Return transfer from Barcelona International Airport (specific times)
Six nights’ accommodation
All breakfasts
Three lunches (swimmers only)
Full ABTOT Financial Protection

What's not included?

Travel to and from the start of the trip outside of the group transfer
Three restaurant lunches
All evening meals
Drinks and additional activities
Overnight tourist tax

Group of 5 or more?

If you're travelling with a group of friends, family or swim buddies, speak to our Group Travel team to get tailored advice, special pricing and discounts, and early access to new trips and departures.

GROUP TRAVEL SERVICE >

Sample Trip Itinerary

Please note that the below daily itineraries are an example of the swims that may take place during your trip, however, actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and swim conditions. Your SwimTrek guides and local boat pilots will determine the most suitable swim locations each day and will communicate the plan with all guests as soon as possible.

Trip Schedule

Day 1

A group transfer is available at 14:00 from Barcelona International Airport to Hotel Terramar in Llafranc. The journey time is approximately 2 hours. If you've arrived early in Llafranc, your guides will be at the hotel to meet you from 17:00. We will have a welcome meeting and safety brief to discuss plans for the week, then complete a short acclimatisation swim directly from the beach in front of our hotel. An optional group dinner this evening is a great opportunity to get to know your fellow swimmers (not included).

Day 2

This morning we swim north along one of the wilder stretches of the Catalan Coast, starting beneath the landmark Far de Sant Sebastià lighthouse and following the rocky shoreline towards Tamariu. Towering cliffs, pine-covered headlands and small secluded coves provide a spectacular backdrop as we make our way along the coast. Our route takes us past Cala del Cau and Cala Pedrosa, a beautiful pebble cove tucked beneath the cliffs, before continuing around a series of rocky points and smaller inlets towards the sheltered bay of Tamariu, a picturesque former fishing village. After time to explore and enjoy lunch in Tamariu (not included) we will meet our local guide for the first afternoon hike.

This afternoon we set out on foot from the picturesque bay of Tamariu, following a spectacular section of the Camí de Ronda coastal trail south towards Llafranc. Leaving the village behind, our route climbs above the Mediterranean, alternating between rugged coastal paths and sections of shady pine and holm oak forest. Along the way, we descend into the secluded pebble cove of Cala Pedrosa, tucked beneath steep, wooded hillsides, before climbing once again towards the dramatic headland of Sant Sebastià, home to the remains of an ancient Iberian settlement, a medieval watchtower and the landmark lighthouse.

From the headland, we are rewarded with superb panoramic views across Llafranc and Calella de Palafrugell and along the Catalan coastline. Our final section descends from the lighthouse towards the harbour and sweeping beach of Llafranc, bringing us back to our base after a rewarding afternoon on the trail.

Day 3

This morning we explore the spectacular coastline around Begur, starting our swims in the small, rocky cove of Cala d’Aiguafreda. From here, we swim northwards beneath rugged cliffs and pine-covered hills, following a wonderfully undeveloped section of the Catalan Coast. Our route takes us alongside the protected waters of Ses Negres, where rocky reefs and clear Mediterranean waters provide plenty to see beneath the surface. Continuing around a succession of small headlands and secluded coves, we eventually approach Platja de Sa Riera. The largest beach in the Begur area, its broad sweep of sand is backed by traditional fishermen’s houses.

After a delicious barbeque lunch prepared on our support boat, we set out to explore the rugged coastline of Begur on foot. Leaving the beach behind, we climb away from the Mediterranean and follow a mixture of coastal and inland trails through pine-covered hills, enjoying impressive views across this particularly wild stretch of the Catalan Coast. Our route gradually brings us back towards the sea at Cala d’Aiguafreda, a tiny rocky cove surrounded by pine forest.

From here, we join one of Begur's most picturesque sections of the Camí de Ronda, following the shoreline over a mixture of rocky paths and stepped sections towards Sa Tuna. We finish in the beautiful, sheltered cove of Sa Tuna, where traditional fishermen's houses cluster around the waterfront beneath the surrounding hills. Clear waters, rocky shoreline and wonderfully secluded setting provide a fitting end to an afternoon exploring.

From here we will be collected by boat to transfer back to Llafranc.

Day 4

This morning we swim south from the secluded Cala Estreta, following a beautiful stretch of largely undeveloped coastline within the protected Castell–Cap Roig natural area. Rocky headlands, pine forest and a succession of small hidden coves line our route as we make our way towards Palamós. We pass the sweeping sands of Platja de Castell, one of the Costa Brava’s largest undeveloped beaches, before continuing to Platja de La Fosca, a broad, sheltered bay divided by the distinctive dark rock from which the beach takes its name.

After lunch in La Fosca (not included) we hike along the Camí de Ronda northwards along one of the most beautiful and undeveloped sections of the Catalan Coast. Our route initially takes us past the colourful fishermen’s houses of Cala S’Alguer before reaching the broad, unspoilt sands of Platja de Castell, overlooked by ruined medieval Castell de Sant Esteve de Mar which occupies a site that was previously home to a Roman villa. Beyond Castell, the landscape becomes increasingly wild as we continue through the protected coastal countryside towards Cala Estreta. Pine forest reaches almost to the water’s edge here, while a succession of secluded coves, rocky headlands and viewpoints towards the Illes Formigues provide an ever-changing backdrop.

Our final section takes us towards Cap Roig, where we leave the main trail and descend towards the wonderfully secluded Cala d’en Massoni. Here we find the intriguing Banyera de la Russa – ‘the Russian Woman’s Bath’ – a natural rocky bathing spot associated with Dorothy Webster, the British co-creator of the nearby Cap Roig estate. Hidden beneath the cliffs and accessible only on foot or from the sea, it provides a memorable finish to our afternoon hike.

From here we will be collected by boat to transfer back to Llafranc.

Day 5

This morning we swim south from Llafranc along one of the most picturesque stretches of the Catalan Coast. Leaving the sweeping bay behind, we follow the rocky shoreline towards neighbouring Calella de Palafrugell, passing secluded coves and traditional waterfront houses along the way. We continue past the beautiful beaches of El Canadell and Port Bo, where colourful fishing boats and whitewashed buildings provide a classic Costa Brava backdrop.

Beyond Calella, the coastline becomes increasingly rugged as we pass Port Pelegrí and a succession of rocky headlands. Our swim finishes beneath Cap Roig, where distinctive reddish cliffs and Mediterranean pine forest mark the beginning of the protected Castell–Cap Roig natural area.

This afternoon’s hike climbs away from the water to visit the famous Cap Roig Botanical Gardens, which provide a spectacular setting for a picnic lunch. From here, we make our way through pine-covered Mediterranean countryside before returning to the coast above the beautiful cove of El Golfet. We join the Camí de Ronda and follow its spectacular coastal trail towards Calella de Palafrugell, negotiating a succession of steps, rocky paths and short tunnels while enjoying wonderful views across the Mediterranean and towards the Illes Formigues. Arriving in Calella de Palafrugell, we pass its picturesque coves, whitewashed waterfront buildings and traditional fishing boats before continuing north along the coast.

Our final section follows the shoreline past Platja del Canadell and around the headland into neighbouring Llafranc, where we finish our hike back at our base beside the beach.

Day 6

This morning we set off from the picturesque fishing village of Tamariu, leaving its sheltered bay behind as we swim north along a wonderfully rugged stretch of the Catalan Coast. Rocky headlands, pine-covered cliffs and remarkably clear Mediterranean waters accompany us as we make our way towards Aiguablava. Our route takes us past the tiny cove of Aigua Xelida, before continuing along a particularly wild section of coastline dotted with narrow inlets, sea caves and secluded coves that are difficult to reach from land.

We eventually round the headland and enter the sheltered waters of Aiguablava, whose name translates as ‘blue water’. Surrounded by cliffs and pine trees, its fine golden sand and famously clear turquoise water provide a spectacular setting in which to finish our morning swim and enjoy a picnic lunch.

This afternoon we set out from the beautiful turquoise waters of Platja d’Aiguablava, climbing away from the beach to explore the rugged coastline between Begur and Tamariu. Our route follows a mixture of woodland trails, quiet lanes and sections of the Camí de Ronda, with regular glimpses of the Mediterranean between the pine-covered hillsides. As we gain height, we reach the Puig des Comal d’Aiguablava viewpoint, where we are rewarded with sweeping views across Aiguablava, Fornells and the wild coastline surrounding the Cap de Begur.

From here, our route begins to descend towards Aigua Xelida, passing above secluded coves and rocky inlets along the way. After exploring the beautiful surroundings of Aigua Xelida, we continue south along the coast, enjoying further viewpoints before making our final descent into Tamariu. We finish beside the beach in this picturesque former fishing village, completing our afternoon journey along one of the most scenic stretches of the Catalan Coast. From here we will be collected by boat to transfer back to Llafranc.

This evening, we'll gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate a wonderful week of swimming, hiking, and exploring together (not included).

Day 7

Map

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Accommodation

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Hotel Terramar

Hotel Terramar offers a classic Catalan Coast experience: a comfortable, family-owned hotel in a prime seafront location with easy access to beaches, coastal walks, and the charming atmosphere of Llafranc.

Location Summary

Llafranc

Our base for the week, Llafranc is a picturesque seaside village wrapped around a sheltered bay of clear Mediterranean water. Once a traditional fishing community, its sandy beach, small harbour and waterfront promenade are now lined with restaurants and cafés, while pine-covered hills rise behind the village. Stylish yet relaxed, it’s an ideal base for exploring the Catalan Coast both on foot and from the water.

Tamariu

Tucked into a sheltered bay north of Llafranc, Tamariu is one of the Catalan Coast’s most charming former fishing villages. Whitewashed buildings and restaurants line its small beach, while rocky headlands and pine forest surround remarkably clear blue water. Its location between secluded coves and rugged coastal trails makes Tamariu a natural stopping point on both our swimming and hiking adventures.

Cap Roig

Cap Roig marks one of the wildest and most scenic stretches of our journey, where reddish cliffs, rocky coves and Mediterranean pine forest meet the sea. The headland is also home to the celebrated Cap Roig Botanical Gardens, created in the 1920s and now filled with Mediterranean and exotic plants. Surrounded by protected coastal countryside, this rugged landscape provides a spectacular setting for both swimming and hiking.

Swim Grading

We have given this trip a ‘Moderate’ grading for swimming. Most swimmers comfortable in the open water will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.

Swimming Distances

Swim	Distance	Swim	Distance
Far de Sant Sebastià towards Tamariu	3km	Cala d’Aiguafreda to Platja de Sa Riera	3km
Cala Estreta to Platja de La Fosca	3km	Llafranc to Cap Roig	3km
Tamariu to Playa d’Aiguablava	3km

*Please note that these swims are an example of what may take place during your trip and should be used as a guide only. Actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and swim conditions.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the open water is a fantastic experience, however you should be aware that certain marine life such as jellyfish, plankton, sea lice, sea urchins and coral could be present during the swims and may cause some discomfort. In all cases we will work on reducing your contact with these creatures and that any interactions are managed safely. If you suffer from anaphylaxis, please consult the office prior to booking.

Month	Water Temperature*	Air Temperature*
June	18-21°C / 64-70°F	16-25°C / 61-77°F
September	20-23°C / 68-73°F	16 -25°C / 61-77°F

*Please note that these temperatures are indicative and should be used as a guide only.

Hike Grading

Most people comfortable walking for a duration of 2-3 hours, with some inclines and some uneven or rocky pathways, will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.

Hiking Distances

Hike	Distance	Hike	Distance
Tamariu to Llafranc	6km	Sa Riera to Sa Tuna	5km
La Fosca to Cala d'en Massoni	6km	Cap Roig to Llafranc	5km
Playa d’Aiguablava to Tamariu	6km

*Please note that these hikes are an example of what may take place during your trip and should be used as a guide only. Actual hike locations and distances will vary according to local weather and conditions.

Hike	Distances	Elevation Gain	Altitude	Terrain	Conditions
Tamariu to Llafranc	6km	332m	Near sea level	A mixture of established coastal paths, rocky trails, stone steps and occasional quiet roads, with short to moderate climbs and descents between beaches, coves and headlands.	Some sections are uneven or steep and there may be occasional exposed sections overlooking the coast. Shade can be limited at times.

Hike	Distances	Elevation Gain	Altitude	Terrain	Conditions
Sa Riera to Sa Tuna	5km	232m	Near sea level	A mixture of established coastal paths, rocky trails, stone steps and occasional quiet roads, with short to moderate climbs and descents between beaches, coves and headlands.	Some sections are uneven or steep and there may be occasional exposed sections overlooking the coast. Shade can be limited at times.

Hike	Distances	Elevation Gain	Altitude	Terrain	Conditions
La Fosca to Cala d'en Massoni	6km	240m	Near sea level	A mixture of established coastal paths, rocky trails, stone steps and occasional quiet roads, with short to moderate climbs and descents between beaches, coves and headlands.	Some sections are uneven or steep and there may be occasional exposed sections overlooking the coast. Shade can be limited at times.

Hike	Distances	Elevation Gain	Altitude	Terrain	Conditions
Cap Roig to Llafranc	5km	193m	Near sea level	A mixture of established coastal paths, rocky trails, stone steps and occasional quiet roads, with short to moderate climbs and descents between beaches, coves and headlands.	Some sections are uneven or steep and there may be occasional exposed sections overlooking the coast. Shade can be limited at times.

Hike	Distances	Elevation Gain	Altitude	Terrain	Conditions
Playa d’Aiguablava to Tamariu	6km	343m	Near sea level	A mixture of established coastal paths, rocky trails, stone steps and occasional quiet roads, with short to moderate climbs and descents between beaches, coves and headlands.	Some sections are uneven or steep and there may be occasional exposed sections overlooking the coast. Shade can be limited at times.

Trip Information

Weather Caveat

For safety reasons, we rely on decent weather conditions when carrying out our swims. Therefore, open water swimming holidays require a certain degree of on-trip flexibility which can result in changes to the planned itinerary. These changes often add a touch of uniqueness to your trip and will be communicated to you by your SwimTrek guides as quickly as possible.

On this trip it is likely that the order of days in the itinerary may change dependent on local daily wind direction. The combination of swims and hikes have been carefully paired to ensure the greatest flexibility.

Group Size

This trip has a maximum group size of 15. The group will be split into a maximum of two swim groups, based on speed, with each group being accompanied by their own safety vessel/escort. We will hike together as one group.

Boat Support

Boat support on this trip includes three support vessels, one main boat, one dinghy, and a kayak. These will be piloted by our local partners and your SwimTrek guides. Please note that this boat support is subject to change without notice and cannot be guaranteed.

Equipment Checklist

For your basic, essential packing list, please visit our Packing List page on the website. In addition to our standard recommended packing list, we also recommend that you bring the following additional items on this trip:

Hiking boots with ankle support (essential)
Daily hiking clothes
Waterproof jacket
Backpack
Walking poles (optional)
Lightweight microfibre towel/changing robe
An additional or spare personal drink bottle

Food and Drink

All breakfasts, 2 picnic lunches, and 1 barbeque lunch during your swim days are included in your trip price (swimmers only). The remaining lunches (taken at local restaurants) and all dinners are at your own expense. This gives you a fantastic opportunity to explore the menus and experience some of the numerous excellent local restaurants over the course of your trip.

For more information, please visit our food and drink page on the website.

Getting There

As SwimTrekkers come from all over the world, and join our swimming holidays in numerous destinations, we don't currently offer flights as part of our SwimTrek packages. We do however want to do as much as we can to ensure that our guests get the best deals when travelling to one of our trips so check out SwimTrek's tips to help you get the best deals for your flights page on the website.

The easiest way to get to the start of your trip is to fly into Barcelona International Airport (Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport) where a group transfer will be waiting to take you to your hotel in Llafranc. This transfer is included in your package price. Please ensure you arrive in plenty of time for the transfer which will leave at 14:00 and will take around 2 hours.

Your return transfer back to Barcelona airport is also included in your package price. This will leave the hotel in Llafranc at 11:00 and will arrive at the airport by 14:00. You can also arrange your own private transfer, but please note this is likely to cost around €250-300 so we recommend arriving in time for the group transfer.

You could also fly to Girona–Costa Brava International Airport, which is only a transfer of around 1 hour but be aware that flights are less regular compared to Barcelona and it is mainly serviced by low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and Jet2.

Travel Advice

For more information on any of the following sections please visit the Travel Advice page of our website.

Money, Extra Expenses and Tipping

You should bring extra money with you to cover such items as transfers, entertainment, excursion day lunch and dinners, souvenirs, etc. The local currency is the Euro (€). There are ATMs available in Llafranc and Barcelona airport.

In some countries tipping (gratuities) is not part of the culture - in others it has become an expected norm. We believe that tipping is entirely at your discretion. If you have been provided with excellent service, it may be something you wish to do. Your SwimTrek Guides can advise on local norms for service providers like boat crew, waiters, or taxis. Nothing is expected for your SwimTrek Guides, but many groups like to present something to the Guides at the end of the trip.

Responsible Travel

SwimTrek is conscious of the importance of protecting the world’s natural wonders. We are acutely aware of our responsibility to not only take care of the natural environments which we are lucky enough to explore, but also to educate our guests about the importance of conservation efforts and responsible tourism. It’s for this reason that we have worked so closely with our partners to ensure that our trips are conducted in the most responsible and sustainable way possible, working tirelessly to minimise the impact of our presence on local marine life and the natural habitat.

For more information, please visit our Responsible Travel page on the website.

Passports and Visas

Please note that visa regulations are subject to change and it is important that you check your own visa requirements prior to travel.

Travel Insurance

We consider comprehensive travel insurance to be essential, and we strongly recommend that you purchase insurance which includes, but is not limited to, cover for illness, accident, emergency repatriation, ambulance, air ambulance, helicopter rescue services, cancellation, lost luggage and delays. Your travel insurance should also cover you for open water swimming and any other activity listed in your trip itinerary (including races and competitions, where applicable). Please read your policy details carefully and remember to take them with you on your trip for your own reference.

For further information, please visit our Travel Insurance page on the website.

Health Information and Recommended Vaccinations

Here at SwimTrek, we pride ourselves on our focus on safety and the well-being of all our guests. As we operate in some beautiful and remote locations medical facilities are not always easily accessible. SwimTrek Guides, and many staff working for our local partners, are first aid trained. However, we ask that you read our Travel Health page to ensure that you are informed about general Travel and Swim Health precautions.