A coastal town on Spain's Costa Brava with a 16th-century citadel and crystal-clear Mediterranean beaches. Popular for sailing and diving near Cap de Creus.
Roses stretches along the northern Costa Brava, where you'll walk past 16th-century fortress walls on your way to sandy beaches. Swim in the clear waters of Cala Montjoi, explore the Greek ruins inside the Ciutadella, or watch birds at Aiguamolls Natural Park. From Trinity Castle's clifftop position, you can spot both the snow-capped Pyrenees and the Mediterranean Sea.
Getting to Roses
The closest airport is Girona-Costa Brava, 44 kilometers away. From there, take the AP-7 highway to Figueres and then the C-260 road to Roses. Barcelona Airport is a viable alternative, located 160 kilometers south. Regular bus services connect Roses with Barcelona and Girona, with changes in Figueres or Castello D'Empuries.
Beaches and Coves Along the Coast
Seven main beaches stretch along Roses' waterfront, from the 1.8-kilometer-long Platja de Roses to smaller spots like the 370-meter Canyelles Petites. Eight coves dot the coastline - swim or snorkel in the clear waters of Cala Montjoi and Cala Joncols. Watch the sun set over the Mediterranean from Roses' western-facing beaches, a rare sight on Costa Brava.
Ancient Fortifications and Ruins
Walk through the 16th-century walls of the Ciutadella in the town center. Inside, you'll walk among remains of the Greek city of Rhode from 776 BC and later Roman settlements. Trinity Castle rises from Poncella Point in a five-pointed star shape, a classic example of 16th-century military design. Climb to the 7th-century Visigothic hill fort for panoramic views of the Gulf of Roses.
Water Activities and Sports
Rent kayaks and paddleboards from the beach stands to explore the calm waters of Roses' bay. Join diving expeditions from the local diving center to see underwater rock formations and marine life around Cap de Creus. The Skydive Center, operating since 1985, ranks among Europe's main skydiving locations.
Local Food and Restaurants
Fishermen bring their catch to the port each morning, where local restaurants buy fish and shellfish for traditional dishes. Try suquet de peix (fish stew) and arròs negre (black rice with squid ink) at waterfront restaurants. Two restaurants hold Michelin stars: La Llar and Els Brancs serve modern versions of Catalan dishes.
Natural Parks Near Roses
Walk the trails of Cap de Creus Natural Park just north of town to reach isolated beaches through rocky terrain. Spot migrating birds at the Aiguamolls de l'Empordà wetlands south of Roses. Follow the GR-92 trail between these parks along the coast past coves and cliffs.
Day Trips from Roses
Drive 20 minutes to see Salvador Dalí's former house-museum in the white-walled village of Cadaqués. Visit the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres, 17 kilometers inland, where you'll find the artist's largest collection. Walk through Girona's medieval stone streets, about an hour's drive south.
