Tossa de Mar - Spain
Tossa De Mar is actually called the flower of Costa Brava owing to its rugged beauty and peaceful atmosphere. It is located on the Northeast coast of Spain just 100km from the French border. Tossa de Mar is a quintessential part of the autonomous community of Catalonia.
Although it is not as popular or crowded than it’s equally charming counterpart Loret de Mar, it manages to hold its own in terms of scenic beauty, history and entertainment.
Only three of the five towers that once protected this city remain along the walls built in the 12th century. Most of the fortifications were destroyed during the construction of a necessary light house in the 20th century.
The Entrance Tower, the Homage Tower and the Jonas Tower are the only ones that remain and have been retained for tourist interest within the city. The part of town that actually exists within the confines of these walls is aptly called the “Vila Vella” or old town in simple terms.
The Villa Vella area of Tossa de Mar was inhabited during the Neolithic period until the end of the 20th century. Although the origins are untraceable it is believed to be founded by the Romans. Most tourists visit in June, July and August as the climate is suitable day or night and less windy compared to that in September.
The town was established in the 12th century and that is when the castle was built. Later, it was replaced by a windmill and at the end, replaced by the lighthouse. The old town typically boasts of medieval narrow cobbled streets and houses made of stone within a labyrinth of flowers on balconies, Plazas and architecturally rich old historic buildings.
The newer part or the Villa Novae is modernized beyond comprehension with some of the best restaurants that serve an array of delectable Catalonian cuisines along with regular western dishes. Here you will find plenty of shops, cafes and great nightlife. Hotels on the contrary are found in the older part of town due to a restriction on high rise buildings in the area.
There are three popular beaches in Tossa de Mar. The most frequented beach called the Tossa Beach lies closest to the city centre across the walls. The beach is about 380 meters long and has a significantly rocky coastline and deep blue waters that are perfect for scuba diving. The El Codolar a smaller beach is still used by fishermen for fishing and harboring their boats. May Menuda the third beach is about 200m wide and is located on the other side of the bay.
Tossa de Mar has no really significant activities for children or lively adults but the restaurants, night clubs and bars do offer some scope in that respect. Alternatively it’s the best locale for a quiet and peaceful holiday on the coast.
M.A.H.
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