What to See in Cap de Creus Natural Park

Do you consider yourself an adventure lover, one of those who adore being surrounded by nature and don’t mind if it’s beach or mountain?
Anything to lose yourself and spend a few hours away from civilization?
Then, Cap de Creus is the perfect place for you.
In this post, we’re going to tell you everything this natural park has to offer and show you several activities you can do in Cap de Creus, so you can add them to your list for your next trip.
Are you coming?

What Makes Cap de Creus Natural Park Special

Cap de Creus Natural Park stands out for being the first land-sea park in Catalonia.
But that’s not its only highlight.
Here are some other features that make it so special:

A changing landscape: Cap de Creus covers almost 14,000 hectares. Of those, more than 3,000 correspond to marine areas. That’s why it’s a perfect place whether you love the beach or mountain trails.
Coves with crystal-clear waters: Is it still possible to find a Mediterranean coastline that isn’t crowded with bathers? At Cap de Creus, yes. This natural park has 97 coves and beaches, some of which still keep the look of truly pristine places.
The place that inspired Dalí: The surrealist painter spent most of his life in Portlligat, a small village located on a cove in Cap de Creus. The cliffs along the coast inspired many of his works.
Unique flora and fauna: The protected area of Cap de Creus is home to a huge diversity of species, including the peregrine falcon and the Bonelli’s eagle —which nest on the cliffs— and the red coral that can be seen underwater.
One of Europe’s earliest inhabited sites: Walking through Cap de Creus, you can still find remains of the civilizations that inhabited it through the centuries, even dating back to prehistoric times.

As you see, whether you come in summer or winter, Cap de Creus always has something for you to do.

5 Activities You Can Do in Cap de Creus

Here are some of the most popular activities among those who join the tours we run through Cap de Creus and the Costa Brava.
Let’s check them out.

1.- Kayaking Routes

The best way to enjoy the coves along Cap de Creus is to explore them by kayak.
The usual route starts from Portlligat towards Mar d’Avall. It’s a very pleasant trip where the sea breeze caresses you as you paddle.
Also, you can make a stop midway to do the next activity on this list.

2.- Snorkeling

A top favorite activity for families with children in Cap de Creus.
All you need is a snorkel and mask to dive into the underwater world.
The waters of Cap de Creus remain pollution-free and are some of the clearest along the Mediterranean coast, allowing you to enjoy the marine fauna that inhabits this coast.

3.- Hiking in Cap de Creus

If hiking is your thing, you’ll find many options here.
Among the best-known routes is the one along the Old Path of Cadaqués, heading to Cap de Creus. It’s an easy trail, suitable for children.
But if you want more challenging routes, you can choose some that run through the wooded areas of this natural park.
In fact, this is where the famous Cap de Creus Trail race takes place, which starts at the coast and climbs to the mountains. Or, as its organizers say, “towards the sky.”

4.- Cycling for Amateurs and Professionals

For those who love challenges and pedaling hard.
Cap de Creus Natural Park has steep climbs that will test your physical abilities.
However, the views you’ll enjoy while cycling through the park’s forests and cliffs are the best reward.

5.- Visits to the Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes

We close the list with a different proposal.
The monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes is located atop the Rodes mountain range and is one of the best places to enjoy views of Cap de Creus.
This Romanesque monastery has preserved much of the artwork that once decorated it.
Also, nearby you’ll find the remains of the medieval village of Santa Creu de Rodes, making it a perfect spot for history lovers.

Ready to Visit Cap de Creus?

Cap de Creus Natural Park has a lot to offer, so if you want to explore it fully, you’ll need several days.
But if you’re short on time and don’t want to miss anything, we recommend joining one of our tours and activities.
We offer hiking, cycling, kayaking, and snorkeling excursions, as well as guided tours through the villages of the Cap de Creus region.
If you’re interested, you can click here to take a look.
We’ll make sure your trip is unforgettable.