Costa Brava means 'wild or rugged coastline' and is the section of coastline in the north east of Spain, from Blanes to the Pyrenees Mountains that form the border with France. The quaint fishing villages of this region are now interspersed with thriving resorts and high-rise developments, so there is something for everyone on a Costa Brava villa vacation. Choose a villa in one of the small coastal towns such as Begur, Aigua Blava, Tamariu and Calella Palafrugell. Marvel at the magnificent natural beauty of the rocky headlands and sandy white beaches, which are unpolluted with clean, clear water. There are plenty of water sports on offer throughout the region and a growing number of golf courses. Head to the resorts, such as those at Lloret, L'Estartit and Tossa de Mar for your choice of restaurants, nightclubs, cafe's, boutiques and bars.

There is plenty of history to explore on your Costa Brava villa holiday. See the Greek and Roman ruins at Empúries. Visit Tossa de Mar and its the lovely old quarter, 'Villa Vella', with its towers and defensive walls. Travel inland to the capital city of the region, Girona. Here you will find the picturesque old Jewish Quarter, a 13th century cathedral and an exhibition of the famous surrealist artist, Salvador Dali. A Costa Brava villa is a great base for day trips to nearby Barcelona, Monserrat or Andorra.

The Medes Islands, off the coast from Begur, form Spain's first marine nature reserve. Go scuba diving or take a trip in a glass bottom boat to appreciate the amazing marine fauna and flora. There are plenty of amusements for children near your Costa Brava villa. Once they have had enough of the beach or the pool, there are the two Botanical gardens in Blanes, Marineland adventure park, the Water World Water Park near Lloret de Mar or the Porta Aventura Theme park near Tarragon.

The Costa Brava is known for its fresh seafood. Don't miss the fish suquets, cuttlefish and prawns. Fritters and black rice are also regional specialties, along with trinxat (cabbage and potato omelettes, served with pork).

Festivals and Events on the Costa Brava
Platja d'Aro - Parade of the Three Kings (January)
Santa Pau - La Fesolada food festival (January)
Pals - Carnival (January-February)
L'Escala - Grand Carnival Parade (February)
Besalú - Els Dolors Procession (March)
Girona - Diada de Sant Jordi (April)
Palafrugell - Spring Festival (May-June)
Tossa De Mar - Corpus Christi Floral Carpets celebration (June)
Tossa de Mar - Summer Festival of Sant Pere (June)
Lloret - Fiesta de Santa Cristina (July)
Blanes - Costa Brava International Fireworks Competition (July)
Besalú - Medieval Besalú (August - September)
Lloret - Sant Romà celebrations (November)
Pals - Living Nativity Scene (December)
Calonge - Display of the Cribs (Late December-January)