Blanes: Coastal Gardens, History and Local Cuisine

Blanes combines botanical gardens and a striking coastal landscape with a history dating back to Roman times. If you are looking for a hotel in Blanes, asking yourself what matters most can help you decide: do you prefer botanical collections and coastal views, or are you mainly interested in the development of Blandae, historic buildings and local cuisine?

Gardens and Coastal Landscape

Jardí Botànic Marimurtra is located in Blanes on the Costa Brava, atop sea cliffs. Coastal panoramas and predominantly exotic plant species define the garden, which is considered one of the most beautiful gardens on the Mediterranean. At Jardín tropical Pinya de Rosa, by contrast, the cactus collection takes centre stage. The garden is located in the Paraje Natural de Interés Nacional de Pinya de la Rosa and is home to one of Europe’s most interesting and diverse cactus collections: more than 7,000 species from around the world. The contrast offers a clear basis for choosing what interests you: coastal panoramas and exotic plants at Marimurtra versus the cactus-focused collection at Pinya de Rosa.

Cala Treumal is the northernmost beach in the municipality of Blanes. It is surrounded by the unique landscape of Pinya de Rosa, which is designated a Paratge Natural d’Interès Nacional. Cala Treumal therefore brings together its location on the municipality’s northernmost beach and its connection to a designated landscape area.

Roman Roots and Historic Buildings

Blandae was a city founded by the Romans in Catalonia. Its history spans from its founding in the 1st century BC to its development into medieval Blanes. The Interpretive Centre Blandae Ciutat Romana shares knowledge about the ancient civitas through archaeological excavations. The historical references thus range from the Roman founding of the city to the development of medieval Blanes; the excavations form the basis of the interpretation presented at the centre.

Castell de Sant Joan was built in the 13th century. Its privileged location made it an outstanding viewpoint. Font Gòtica, an octagonal fountain from the 15th century, reveals its character through its form and decoration: six gargoyles depict human figures, and a central medallion bears the coat of arms of the Cabrera family.

El Convent was built in 1583. A description from 2018 called Casa Saladrigas well restored and described it as an urban exhibition space. The Ruta de las ermitas offers a different way to explore the heritage: the route links the hermitages of Blanes and reveals their stories, legends and distinctive features. Alongside individual buildings, the traditions associated with the hermitages are therefore also a focus.

Cuisine and Fireworks Festival

Suquet de Peix is rooted in the cuisine of Blanes. Fishermen prepared the stew with a picada and whatever fish they had caught that day. This description thus brings together two specific elements of the preparation: the picada and the day’s catch.

The Concurso Internacional de Fuegos Artificiales de la Costa Brava is a fireworks festival with a century-old pyrotechnic tradition. Every July, it brings light, colour and smoke to the beaches of Blanes and attracts tens of millions of spectators. As the annual programme should be checked before your trip, find out the event dates in good time.

Discover more destinations: Ullà, Quart, Sant Martí De Llémena, Planoles, Santa Llogaia D'àlguema, Tossa De Mar, Can Jordi, Molló

For the regional travel overview: Girona.