Exploring the Beauty of Roses, Costa Brava: A 10-Day Vista By Coach Adventure
Our recent Vista By Coach journey took us to the stunning Roses on Spain’s Costa Brava, a destination renowned for its sparkling Mediterranean waters, charming streets, and unforgettable cuisine. Over 10 glorious days, our travellers experienced the perfect blend of scenic views, cultural excursions, and relaxation.
Day 1–2: Journey Begins – Dover to Calais and Overnight in France
Our adventure began with a scenic coach ride to Dover, where we boarded the ferry across the English Channel to Calais. The ferry offered panoramic views of the coastline, allowing travelers to relax and enjoy the sea breeze. After disembarking, we continued by coach through the beautiful French countryside, arriving at our overnight stop. Guests enjoyed a comfortable stay with a continental breakfast, providing a delightful start to our journey.
Day 3–9: Seven Nights at Prestige Sant Marks Hotel, Roses
Upon arrival in Roses, we checked into the Prestige Sant Marks Hotel, a modern beachfront hotel offering spectacular views of the bay. Guests enjoyed a buffet breakfast each morning and evening meals, allowing everyone to sample a variety of local and international dishes while soaking up the Mediterranean ambiance. The hotel’s prime location made it easy to explore Roses at leisure between excursions.
Excursion Highlights
Our itinerary included three unforgettable coach tours to Girona, Empuriabrava, and Cadaqués, each offering its own unique charm.
Girona: A Walk Through History
Our day in Girona took us through cobbled streets lined with pastel-colored buildings and historic architecture. Highlights included the majestic Girona Cathedral, with its stunning Romanesque and Gothic design, and the Jewish Quarter, a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with shops, cafes, and bars. We stopped at a charming local tapas bar, sampling patatas bravas and jamón ibérico while sipping on locally produced wines. A leisurely lunch in a sunny square allowed travelers to enjoy paella and freshly caught seafood, with waitstaff providing warm, friendly service that truly captured the essence of Spanish hospitality.
Empuriabrava: Venice of Spain
Next, we ventured to Empuriabrava, often called the Venice of Spain for its extensive network of canals. Guests were delighted by the sight of luxury villas lining the waterways and boats gently gliding through the channels. We explored the waterfront, stopping at a lively café for sangria and tapas while watching the boats pass. Local artisan shops offered handmade souvenirs, and some guests even opted for a short canal cruise, enjoying the town from a unique perspective.
Cadaqués: Artistic Charm on the Coast
Our final excursion took us to Cadaqués, a picturesque fishing village that inspired artists like Salvador Dalí. The narrow streets were lined with whitewashed houses and bright bougainvillea, leading to cozy bars and restaurants tucked around every corner. Guests sampled freshly grilled fish, pa amb tomàquet (Catalan-style tomato bread), and local wines at a cliffside terrace overlooking the turquoise sea. The relaxed atmosphere encouraged wandering, discovering hidden art galleries, and enjoying gelato from quaint cafes as the sun dipped below the horizon.
Leisure Days and Local Exploration
Between excursions, travelers enjoyed leisure days in Roses, strolling along the beach promenade, visiting local markets, or relaxing in the hotel’s pool area. Many discovered small family-run bars and restaurants along the coastline, savoring tapas, chilled sangria, and Mediterranean seafood while soaking in the views of the bay. Evening walks along the beach offered the perfect opportunity to capture stunning sunset photos.
A Journey to Remember
This 10-day adventure perfectly blended travel, culture, and relaxation. From the ferry ride across the Channel to the charm of Girona, Empuriabrava, and Cadaqués, every moment offered memorable experiences. Our guests returned home with sun-kissed smiles, a taste of Catalonia’s best cuisine, and memories of the scenic Costa Brava coastline that will last a lifetime.
At Vista By Coach, we take pride in crafting journeys that combine comfort, culture, and camaraderie—truly experiences worth savoring.