Empuriabrava in Girona stands out for its vast network of navigable canals, private moorings, and direct access to the Mediterranean. This residential marina, often compared to Venice, offers a rare blend of beach, nature, and medieval heritage.
From above, Empuriabrava looks unlike any other town on the Spanish coast. Located in the municipality of Castelló d’Empúries in Girona, this residential marina is defined by its extraordinary network of canals—24 kilometers in total—making it one of the largest of its kind in the world. Here, boats are as common as cars, and many homes have their own private mooring, allowing residents to step from their living rooms directly onto the water.
The town’s layout is what draws frequent comparisons to Venice. Instead of a single marina or port, the canals weave through residential streets, gardens, and neighborhoods, creating a landscape that is both striking and rare in Spain. According to local records, Empuriabrava was inaugurated in June 1967, and over the past five decades, it has developed a distinct identity as a Mediterranean enclave where water shapes daily life.
Life on the Water
Empuriabrava’s appeal goes beyond its canals. The town boasts a 1.5-kilometer sandy beach facing the Mediterranean, offering a classic Costa Brava experience with a twist. The combination of golden sand, blue water, and the sight of boats moored at private docks gives the area a unique atmosphere. For those seeking quieter or more traditional coastal destinations, Catalonia offers other options, but few match Empuriabrava’s blend of modernity and maritime character.
Nature and Wildlife
Just beyond the residential area, the landscape shifts dramatically. Empuriabrava borders the Parc Natural dels Aiguamolls de l’Empordà, a protected wetland since 1983 and one of the most important in Catalonia. Covering 4,720 hectares, the park is a haven for wildlife, especially birds—329 species have been recorded, with 82 nesting regularly. Visitors can explore the area on foot or by bike, discovering a side of the Costa Brava that is far removed from the region’s busier resorts.
Medieval Heritage Nearby
A short distance from the canals, the historic center of Castelló d’Empúries offers a striking contrast to Empuriabrava’s modern design. The town’s most prominent landmark is the Basílica de Santa Maria, often called the “cathedral of l’Empordà,” known for its Gothic architecture, three naves, and marble façade. The area also features the Museu d’Història Medieval de la Cúria-Presó, housed in a former judicial complex, and the Ecomuseu Farinera, both contributing to the town’s rich cultural offering.
Adventure Above the Coast
Empuriabrava is also known for its aerodrome, home to Skydive Empuriabrava, a major international skydiving center. The facility has hosted more than 2.5 million jumps, with tandem skydives taking place from around 4,000 meters. For those who prefer to stay closer to the ground, Windoor Empuriabrava offers the sensation of freefall in a vertical wind tunnel. This mix of water, sand, nature, history, and adventure activities sets Empuriabrava apart from other Mediterranean destinations.
Empuriabrava’s unusual combination of canals, beach, protected wetlands, medieval heritage, and aerial sports has made it a distinctive spot on the Costa Brava. While it may not have the centuries-old history of Venice, its unique design and lifestyle continue to attract visitors and residents looking for something different on the Spanish coast.
