Have you been to Cala Estreta? Wild nature in the heart of the Costa Brava
Have you been to Cala Estreta? Wild nature in the heart of the Costa Brava
Have you been to Cala Estreta? This wild and hard-to-reach beach is one of the most authentic along the Costa Brava coastline. Located between Palamós and Calella de Palafrugell, in the heart of the Castell-Cap Roig Natural Area, Cala Estreta is a gem for lovers of unspoilt nature and undeveloped places. Here there are no services or constructions: only sea, pines, rocks, and the breeze of the Costa Brava. It is a corner of the world that seems frozen in time, far from mass tourism.
A cove divided in two and united by calm
Cala Estreta owes its name to its long and narrow shape. It is divided by a large central rock that splits the cove into two halves, each with its own personality. The waters are crystal clear, the seabeds rocky and full of life, and the atmosphere is completely silent. Nudism is common here, although the cove is not exclusively for that. What is universal, however, is respect for nature and for other visitors.
From Cala Estreta itself, following the Camí de Ronda, you can walk to other equally unspoilt beaches such as Cala Roca Bona, Cala del Crit or Cala Sanià. The area is dotted with small corners and natural viewpoints that turn every step into a sensory experience.
How to get to Cala Estreta?
Access to Cala Estreta is exclusively on foot, which keeps it away from mass tourism. The most popular route starts at Platja de Castell (Palamós), where you can leave your car in a designated parking area. From there, a signposted path runs for about 2.5 kilometres through pure nature. The walk takes between 35 and 45 minutes and goes through pine forests, old farmland, and cliffs overlooking the sea.
The path is easy to follow, but proper footwear and water are essential. During the walk, if you pay attention, you will come across a small stone hut: the famous Salvador Dalí’s hut. It is said that the artist spent time in this humble construction, seeking inspiration in the solitude and the strength of the landscape. Dalí’s presence adds a magical touch to the excursion, which combines art, history, and nature.
Tips to enjoy Cala Estreta
- Bring water, some food, and a bag for your waste: there are no services or bins.
- Use sun protection and, if you plan to stay for several hours, a light umbrella.
- The environment is very fragile: do not pick plants, do not leave rubbish, and avoid making fires.
- If you enjoy snorkelling, this is an ideal spot to observe fish, sea urchins, and rocky seabeds.
- Avoid days with strong tramuntana winds: the cove is somewhat exposed to the north wind.
Do you like wild coves? We also recommend:
- Cala del Golfet: a hidden beach between cliffs and turquoise waters.
- Hiking routes in the Empordà: explore the coastline on foot.
- Cap Roig Botanical Garden: art, botany, and sea views.
Your perfect base to explore: Hotel Encís d’Empordà
The Hotel Encís d’Empordà is just 30 minutes by car from Cala Estreta. Located in a restored farmhouse, it is the perfect starting point to explore the Costa Brava coastline and discover its hidden treasures. Our adults-only accommodation offers peace, comfort, a Mediterranean garden, an intimate pool, and rooms with a soul of their own. In addition, we provide personalised recommendations for routes, restaurants, cultural experiences, and secret spots like this one.
If you dream of different, authentic holidays connected to the essence of the Empordà, this is your place. We are waiting for you with open arms.
📌 Follow our blog to discover more coves like Illa Roja or historical gems like the Palau de Casavells.