Calonge, the perfect combination on the Costa Brava

This medieval village stands between the mountains and the coast, and it was built around a castle. Calonge has incredible beaches and its district of Sant Antoni lies on the famous Costa Brava. Are you ready to discover all there is to see in Calonge?

Planning your getaway to Calonge 

A wall of stone and a path along the sea

There are lovely paths and spots near Calonge. | Shutterstock

This little village holds a special charm. In addition, it’s the perfect destination to spend a day visiting some of the most popular spots and monuments in the area. For those who decide to stay there for a couple of days, they might go on a trip to places such as Palafrugell and Begur (to the north), and Sant Feliu de Guíxols (to the south).  Besides, it’s really close to two of the liveliest nightlife spots on Costa Brava: Playa de Aro and Palamós. For that reason, it could be an alternative option to stay and enjoy a more affordable getaway, not only for party lovers, but also for families.

What to see in Calonge 

A castle with towers seen from below

The castle of Calonge. | Shutterstock

In the middle of the main square, at the actual heart of Calonge, the walled castle proudly stands out. This is where our visit begins. Despite being an 8th century fortress which appears in Carolingian chronicles from the following century, the oldest part of the building is the so-called Torre Cuadrada (Square Tower), probably built in the 12th century. The present-day ensemble is still the structure of what was restored after the fire of 1485.

In the following century, this building became a palace with beautiful gardens and a parade ground. The walls have arrow slits, almost at ground level, and decorative triple rounded battlements at the top of the walls. The municipal archive is currently housed there.

It is also essential to mention its old quarter. In the Doma square we can find the church of San Martín, with just one nave and a surprising size. Besides, there is the Can Savalls, built in the 16th century, a noble house which stands out for its Jewish symbols and its impressive façade.

‘El Collet’ is also considerably attractive, mainly due to its relation with the remains of the monastery of Santa María del Mar. It was founded in the 12th century in a small hill which used to be occupied by a Roman village.  Nowadays, there is just a small hermitage in a ruinous state. Another remarkable place is the ‘Lloreta Tower’ which is located in the centre of Sant Antoni and whose role was to spot corsair ships in order to alert the population.

Finally, it’s impossible not to mention its marvellous beaches, such as Sant Antoni and Torre Valentina, as well as the other watchtower, Es Monestri. Furthermore, there are several coves which are located in the capes of Roques Planes y Cabo Roig or El Paller.

Beautiful Spanish village Sant Antoni de Calonge in Costa Brava.

Sant Antoni de Calonge in Costa Brava. | Shutterstock


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