Such a gem on the Costa Brava. L'Estartit is a small town located about 140 km North of Barcelona. It is primarily a resort/seasonal town and it is often associated with nearby (its kind of a suburb) Torroella de Montgrí. Like many I have a visceral reaction to resort or seasonal areas and understandably so. It typically means ridiculous fees, substandard food and the like. However, what makes L'Estartit so different is that the vast majority of the people that come here have done so for years even decades and as such there is a much greater sense of community. Getting there can be an adventure in and of itself. Barcelona is the likely suspect when coming from the US. Girona is closer, but most flights from here at least will hit BCN first. The drive is quite nice ONCE you get out of Barcelona. If its your first time driving in Europe, mind your manners, know how to drive a stick shift, get the optional insurance, prepare for alot of tolls, and for god sakes know how to use a turning circle. Girona province in many ways is the breadbasket of Spain and the landscapes can be stunning. The city itself is quite charming. We stayed in a hillside villa that is the summer residence of my Uncle and be prepared for spectacular views, friendly people, and fantastic food. The beach literally stretches for miles and is easily accessed. The water is clean and the temperature is very similar to Hawaii but a touch colder. We quickly settled into a very satisfying routine. We would roll out of bed and walk down to the Supermercat (a local chain market) grab a freshly baked baguette, get some sliced Jamon Iberico, cheese, fresh fruit, and walk back and enjoy the view and breakfast. Do an activity, like the Dali museum, go to the beach, go to the beach, have dinner, then enjoy the evening as the sun sets over the Med from our balcony. I could do that exact thing for the rest of my life. The town is a perfect spot to explore the whole area. Want to hop to the Dali Museum? no problem, Want to go hunting for Michelin Stars? Easy, we picked up 14 total, Like ceramics? the whole area is know for that. Want to hike to an ancient Castle with commanding views? Done, want to take a day trip to the South of France? Boom its only about 70 km away. But what really makes this place special is the people. Friendly and accommodating, we felt welcome wherever we went. While many simply hit up the biggest city on the map and camp out, and Barcelona is one of the great cities of the world, you really should get out to the countryside to get a real feel for a country. read more

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