What to do

Begur is located in the northeast of Spain, in the heart of the Costa Brava. Given its location, terrain and unique surroundings, it offers a variety of entertainment, dining and cultural activities.

A number of illustrious visitors from the world of culture, politics and journalism have walked the streets of Begur. The most famous was Carmen Amaya, daughter of Micaela Amaya and guitarist Jose Amaya El Chino. She was one of the best-known flamenco dancers and singers. Carmen was born in Barcelona and throughout her busy life making movies, participating in shows etc, returned to live in Begur where she spent her last days.

"Suddenly, Last Summer" was filmed by director and film legend Joseph L. Mankiewicz in Begur in the late 50's starring Liz Taylor, Catherine Hepburn and Clift Montgomery. Vera Street features in it. The film was awarded a Golden Globe for Best Actress and was nominated for three Oscars. Some Spanish cinema classics such as as "Tourism is a great invention" and "Dynamite is served" were also shot in the town.

The Cap Sa Sal complex can be seen from the magnificent cove of Sa Tuna which lies between the creek of Aiguafreda and the Marine Reserve Ses Negres. Construction of the hotel began in 1955 and the opening was in the early 60's. One June afternoon in 1966 Hollywood star Rock Hudson appeared at the reception, he wanted to experience for himself what he had heard about Begur. Around that time the town was equated with the French and the Italian Riviera and Cap Sa Sal became a meeting place for the jet set. Throughout its history, the hotel has hosted renowned Spanish artists such as the dancer La Chunga and singers such as Raphael, Julio Iglesias and Joan Manuel Serrat.

Surrounded by beautiful beaches and coves, Begur offers the possibility of diving along the coast. Diving in Sa Tuna and Aiguafreda is a great tradition allowing participants to enjoy a unique experience. In winter when temperatures are low it's time for the "garaoinades" when residents gather on the beaches to enjoy the delicacy of the sea urchin. Outings by kayak are the order of the day as they allow the opportunity to discover unique and wild places along the coast. Trips by boat or sailing boat can be organised offering a meal on board or a swim offshore.

The famous Camí de la Ronda runs along the whole of the Costa Brava. Years ago it was used to guard the coast and over time has become a tourist attraction in unique, rugged, steep and impressive surroundings. Ideal as a walking tour or to get away from from the stresses of the city. In Begur the Camino de Ronda connects all the beaches. Starting in Aiguablava for example, the Camino links with Fornells and Platja Fonda until you reach Cap de Begur. Carry on down Puig des Cau to arrive at the picturesque cove of Sa Tuna, an ideal place to stop at any restaurant in the area. Continue to the cove of Aiguafreda, past Puig Rodo and you arrive at Sa Riera beach. Here you can either go back the coastal way to Illa Roja beach in the direction of Pals or climb the Camí del Aigua towards the Castle of Begur which dates from medieval times.

For thrill seekers there is the Kart circuit located at the entrance of Begur where you can compete with your friends in sessions of 10 minutes. There are various vehicles to suit all tastes and abilities.

If you prefer a gentler activity you can opt for horse riding at Hípica Begur, a short distance from the center of Begur. They offer excursions along the beach, the mountains or in the wood. It is possible for the younger ones in your party to have their first horse riding lesson here.

Begur is a Slow City, a movement based on the primary idea of improved quality of life, people enjoying a prevailing balance between modernity and tradition. The pillars are its environmental policy, the use of food products obtained through natural techniques, indigenous productions linked to the territory and promoting quality hospitality and coexistence between locals and tourists. Following the idea of Slow City appears the Slow Food concept, a qualification based on the quality, ecology and proximity of the food. Begur enjoys that distinction and offers a quality, healthy and balanced gastronomy. Most restaurants are located in the center so wandering through the village you will find something to suit all tastes - Mediterranean delicacies, locally caught fish and seafood, dishes following the Slow Food concept, Japanese food, tapas, fast food but of quality and from the area. Great food can also be enjoyed on the beaches such as Aiguablava, Sa Tuna and Sa Riera where quality restaurants can be found. After a good meal a perfect way to finish the day is to go for a drink in Begur in a friendly atmosphere with good music. You will have a choice of several venues.

One of the cultural alternatives is attending summer evening concerts at the Escoles Velles during the Begur Music Festival, quality concerts that are accessible to the general public. During the month of August there is a choice of Jazz, swing, blues, rock, classical or ethnic music to be enjoyed. Every Wednesday morning is market day in the center of Begur where you can buy fruits and vegetables, cheese, spices, clothes and accessories.

On summer evenings you can watch or take part in the Sardana, the traditional Catalan dance performed in a circle. During summer a series of events is organised in the center of Begur to enjoy the typical Catalan dance.

The first weekend of September Begur celebrates the Indian Festival, an annual celebration of Begur's Indian past. It originated in the emigration of many Begur residents to the island of Cuba during the nineteenth century in search of a better future. When those who had prospered in business returned, they built houses that still decorate the busy streets of the town today. These are the famous Indian Houses, stately colonial style properties of sturdy structures with inner courtyards. Owners of these houses were known as the "Americans" who sought to recreate the Cuban lifestyle and subsequently left their cultural legacy behind. During the Fira de los Indianos Begur is transformed to relive that period which left a deep mark on the town. During those three days Begur becomes Havana. The streets and houses in the centre are decorated in many colours and residents and tourists alike wear white clothes and straw hats to honour the Cuban tradition.

The last weekend of October 2015 saw the first edition of the International Film Festival of Begur. The event was held at the Casino Cinema which has capacity for 180 spectators. This event paid tribute to José Luis Garci who won an Oscar in 1982 for the film "Starting Over".

In late summer 2015 a diving fair opened with plans for the following years. Given the area's passion for this activity, the Begur Aigua Sota (#begursotaaigua) is an event whose primary goal is to teach about the world of sea diving. With a wide range of materials and exhibits they try to educate residents and passersby about the exciting world of underwater discoveries. The event was also used to raise awareness of the seabed and its future. A general cleanup of waste on the beaches of Begur was organised.

The last Sunday of June the legendary race Baixa de Begur i Puja takes place. It is a popular march that covers the most emblematic parts of the area. Usually it’s about 15 km long and can be walked quietly, or for the more daring, run. The track can be quite demanding but it’s always fun and the atmosphere amazing. At the end, after the huge effort, participants are presented with refreshments and a commemorative shirt. In 2015 the website Runedia mentioned the race as one of the best national races which made the organisers, inhabitants and local runners proud.

“Carretons” are racing cars without an engine and manned by people. The route begins on Plaza Forgas where judges check the safety and appearance of the cars. Taking advantage of the slope of Calle de la Creu, their speed increases and people applaud on both sides of the street. Next comes a close curve which is difficult to take if participants don’t brake hard enough, then continue the last bit down Avenida del Onze de Setembre. Tradition calls for the carretons to be fully personalised with any subject so it’s not uncommon to spot a Viking ship or a papier mache replica of a Formula 1 car. The race is a fun outing for the whole family.