Lloret de Mar is undoubtedly best known for its location on Spain’s Costa Brava, which grants the popular coastal town striking beaches, delightful weather, and consequently countless visitors. Nevertheless, many walking and hiking enthusiasts swear by Lloret de Mar for a very different reason: the town’s gorgeous and rugged landscape, including its amazing nature trails.
Whether you are an amateur hiker or a professional, whether you are looking for a relaxed afternoon stroll or an hours-long challenge, Lloret de Mar has trails for everyone. Here are some the town’s best options according to difficulty level.
Short-Length Hike: The Marxa de les Platges Route
What translates as the Beach Walk route is a wonderful itinerary that will allow you to visit 14 beaches and coves in Lloret de Mar. Starting at the Platja de Santa Cristina and concluding at the Platja de Canyelles, the route gives you the opportunity to take in the town’s rocky, uneven, gorgeous coastline. Additionally, you will also walk past a quaint neoclassical 14th century chapel and the fascinating and well-preserved archaeological remains of the Turó Rodó Iberian settlement.
Fast facts:
- Type of trail: hiking only
- Length: 9’4 kilometres (one-way)
- Estimated duration: 3 hours
- Signposting: red and white stripes
- Accessibility: easy
Medium-Length Hike: Lloret de Mar – Vidreres, by the Ermita de Caulès
This is a picturesque trail that will take you from Lloret de Mar to the nearby municipality of Vidreres by way of the wonderfully preserved 10th century chapel Ermita de Caulès. It begins in the heart of Lloret de Mar, following its seaside esplanade, but it soon becomes an uphill countryside walk that leads into a forest hike. Cork oaks, pine trees, and holm oaks surround you as you witness some of the best Catalan landscapes, before making your way to Vidreres, where the route ends. From there, there is a frequent public bus service that will take you back to Lloret de Mar if you want to.
Fast facts:
- Type of trail: hiking and mountain biking
- Length: 21.4 kilometres (one-way)
- Estimated duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Signposting: yellow stripes
- Accessibility: easy
Long-Length Hike: The Camí vell a Tossa Route
If you are looking for a longer route to immerse yourself in that will take up most of the day, the hike to the town of Tossa de Mar is ideal. Although it can be done one-way, it is recommended that you retrace your steps in order to return to Lloret de Mar instead of using public transport, as the views of this beautiful Mediterranean forest are so striking you will want to see them again in a different light as the sun goes down. Do remember to bring water and sandwiches along so you can have lunch among the wilderness: it will be a cherished memory of your holiday.
Fast facts:
- Type of trail: hiking and mountain biking
- Length: 15 kilometres (one-way)
- Estimated duration: 3 hours 5 minutes one-way or 7 hours return
- Signposting: purple stripes
- Accessibility: easy
How to Get to Lloret de Mar
Lloret de Mar is easily reachable from London via Barcelona Airport. There are numerous flights from various airlines that fly daily between both cities, but prices for budget-airlines average at around £65-£80. Once you have landed, the easiest way of getting to Lloret de Mar, especially if you are carrying somewhat cumbersome luggage, is to book a Barcelona airport shuttle. Once you leave the airport, you will be in Lloret de Mar in just an hour and fifteen minutes.
Another option is to take public transport, but bear in mind you will have to change between services. First, take the Cercanías train service to Barcelona-Sants Train Station; from there, board a train to Figueres and get off at Sils; finally, walk to Sils’ town hall to jump onto a bus to Lloret de Mar. The whole journey should take just under two and a half hours.
Where to Stay:
Hostal Ribas – This is a modern, sleek, and affordable hostel ideal for people looking for central accommodation, great facilities, and welcoming staff happy to let you in on all the local secrets. The hostel also has a wine bar where you can sit down to try out its wide selection and relax.
Hotel La Palmera & Spa – Located within 400 metres of Lloret de Mar’s main beach, this hotel is great for more than just sleeping. With an outdoor pool, a hot tub, a sauna, and a Turkish bath, the spa services available to guests are a great opportunity to treat yourself. Plus the buffet-style restaurant is always a hit with visitors!
Santa Marta – With the beach on one side and the rugged countryside on the other, this exquisite hotel is a fantastic choice. Situated in a splendid 14-acre woodland area right next to the Platja de Santa Cristina, you won’t want to take your eyes off the landscape. If you manage to do so, the hotel’s indulgent breakfasts are a must, as is a stroll around the pine tree forest.
