Costa Brava Scenic Hike & Tossa de Mar Small Group Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day spent walking along the rugged Costa Brava coast, exploring medieval towns, and cooling off in crystal-clear coves, this Costa Brava Scenic Hike & Tossa de Mar Small Group Tour promises to deliver just that. Offered by Catalan Trails, this full-day adventure combines active hiking, cultural exploration, and relaxing beach time, all wrapped into a well-balanced package.

What we truly love about this experience is how it manages to be both invigorating and leisurely. You get the chance to stretch your legs on the famous Camí de Ronda coastal trail, which offers jaw-dropping views of the Mediterranean, while also slipping into peaceful coves for quick swims. The guided tour of Tossa de Mar, with its maze of whitewashed streets and medieval walls, adds a touch of history and charm to the day.

A potential consideration is the physical activity involved—it’s a hiking tour designed for those with moderate fitness levels, and parts of the trail can be steep or demanding. However, with the option to swim and relax in quieter spots, it remains suitable for most active travelers.

This tour suits those who enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, and authentic seaside scenery. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or just in need of a day away from city life, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Stunning Coastal Views: The hike along the Camí de Ronda offers spectacular vistas of cliffs, coves, and the Mediterranean Sea.
• Authentic Tossa de Mar: The guided tour of the medieval old town showcases narrow streets, white houses, and ancient fortifications.
• Flexible Beach Time: Free time in coves like Cala Pola and Cala Bona lets you swim in turquoise waters and sunbathe at your own pace.
• Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 8 participants, the tour offers a more intimate, personalized vibe.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides bring the landscape and history to life, enhancing your understanding and enjoyment.
• Value for Price: For $148.35, the tour includes transport, guided walks, a 3-course lunch, and all the highlights—making it a well-rounded day out.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

1. Starting Point & First Hiking Stretch in Tossa de Mar

The day kicks off in Barcelona’s Eixample district, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into an air-conditioned minivan. The journey to Costa Brava takes roughly an hour, giving you a chance to settle in and chat with your small group. Once in Tossa de Mar, the real magic begins.

Your guide will lead you along the famous Camí de Ronda, a trail that links Costa Brava’s charming towns. As you walk, expect scenes straight out of a postcard—cliffs hanging over the sea, hidden coves, and fragrant pine forests. We loved the way the guide shared insights into the landscape, mentioning the scents of rosemary and thyme that fill the air.

2. Cove Stops for Swimming & Relaxation

The hike includes stops at Cala Pola and Cala Bona—two stunning coves perfect for taking a quick dip (weather permitting). One reviewer, Elena, noted that she wished there had been more time to enjoy the beaches, especially with the opportunity to swim in turquoise, crystal-clear waters. The calm, inviting waters in these spots are ideal for a refreshing break, sunbathing, or just soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

3. Lunch & Free Time in Tossa de Mar

Midday, you’ll enjoy a traditional Catalan 3-course lunch in Tossa de Mar. The town itself is a delightful mix of history and seaside charm—narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed facades, and a fortress wall that dates back to the 11th century. After lunch, there’s an hour to explore on your own, shop for souvenirs, or simply wander the streets soaking up the Mediterranean atmosphere.

4. Guided Tour of the Murallas de la Vila Vella

In the afternoon, you’ll explore Vila Vella, the old fortified town. This is the only remaining medieval fortress on the Catalan coast, and walking through its narrow alleys feels like stepping back in time. The walls and defensive towers are impressive, and inside, you’ll find a labyrinth of alleys lined with quaint houses, creating a picturesque scene. A reviewer, Alexandra, appreciated the guide’s knowledge, noting how the walk revealed the town’s layered history and charming architecture.

5. Optional Visit to Es Codolar Beach

While not explicitly included, some tours may pass by or suggest a visit to the small cove of Es Codolar—a quiet spot for a last dip or relaxing break before heading back.

Practical Details & What It Means for You

Transportation & Group Size

The tour provides transport in an air-conditioned minivan, which means you don’t have to worry about navigating or parking—one less stress when exploring scenic coastal areas. With a maximum of 8 people, this small-group setting ensures personalized attention, more meaningful conversations, and fewer crowds.

Duration & Physical Demands

At around 9 hours, this is a full-day experience. The hike itself lasts about 3 hours, with additional stops for swimming and exploration. Reviewers noted some steep climbing sections, so a moderate physical fitness level is recommended. Comfortable hiking shoes and clothes are advised, and packing snacks is suggested since the day involves a good amount of activity.

Cost & Value

Priced at $148.35 per person, including transport, a guided walk, a traditional lunch, and water, the tour offers excellent value for a day packed with diverse experiences. The inclusion of local guides adds cultural richness, making it more than just a walk—it’s an educational journey through Costa Brava’s natural and historical highlights.

Weather & Cancellations

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so rain or shine, you can expect to go ahead—just dress accordingly. If the weather turns poor, cancellations are possible with a full refund or rescheduling. Cancelations are free if done 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

What really sets this tour apart is the insider knowledge from guides like Christian, who was praised for helping the group navigate the trail and sharing interesting anecdotes. The fact that the tour includes a guided walk through the ancient walls of Vila Vella means you’ll get a detailed look at medieval architecture, not just a superficial glance.

The stops at hidden coves like Cala Pola and Cala Bona are real highlights—these are not the crowded beaches of tourist hotspots but rather tranquil spots where you can unwind without bustling crowds. Several reviews mention how the combination of sea air, lush surroundings, and the scent of herbs made the experience particularly memorable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and seaside relaxation. It’s ideal for those who want a day away from typical tourist crowds, with small group intimacy allowing for personalized insights and interactions. If you’re comfortable with moderate hiking and want to see Costa Brava from a local’s perspective, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The Costa Brava Scenic Hike & Tossa de Mar Small Group Tour offers a well-balanced blend of adventure, history, and relaxation. The stunning coastal views, authentic medieval town, and quiet coves make this a genuinely memorable day out. The knowledgeable guide, Christian, helps bring the landscape to life, making each stop more meaningful.

While the physical activity might not suit those with mobility issues, active travelers will find this tour rewarding and invigorating. The small-group setting ensures a cozy, personalized experience that feels more like exploring with friends than a large bus tour.

Overall, for just over $140, this tour delivers a full day of diverse experiences in one of Spain’s most beautiful coastal regions. If you love nature, history, and authentic seaside scenery, this adventure is definitely worth considering.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour requires a moderate physical effort, with some steep sections on the trail. It’s best suited for travelers with decent mobility and endurance, but not necessarily the most active.

How long is the hike?
The hiking portion lasts about 3 hours, but with stops and breaks, expect the entire day to be around 9 hours.

Is swimming included?
Swimming is optional and depends on the weather. The stops at Cala Pola and Cala Bona are ideal for a quick dip if conditions are suitable.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable hiking or sports shoes, a swimsuit and towel if you plan to swim, snacks for energy, and sun protection.

Are meals included?
A traditional 3-course lunch is included in the tour fee. You will have time to enjoy it in Tossa de Mar.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Pg. de Gràcia, 26, Barcelona, and ends back at the same meeting point.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned minivan with a small group for a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, especially if the weather is poor.

Is this tour popular?
Yes, it’s booked on average 49 days in advance and has a perfect 5-star rating from 12 reviews.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic coastal hikes, visits to historic Tossa de Mar, and the small group size creates a memorable, personalized experience that emphasizes authentic local scenery and stories.