Costa del Maresme (Costa del Maresme) - this resort area of Barcelona is part of the Mediterranean coast of Catalonia, which stretches North-East from the capital of Catalonia, 60 km to the coast of the Costa Brava.
Wonderful sandy beaches, protected from the North winds of the coastal mountain range, clean and clear water resort towns or quiet and fresh, pine scent filled the air of mining towns is what brings on this coast, as locals and foreigners alike, making the resorts located here, the most prestigious in Europe. Every year thousands of people choose this area your permanent residence, or acquire vacation real estate.
For many centuries the warm Mediterranean climate and fertile soil allow the cultivation of a rich harvest from the orchards and plantations of strawberries, thanks to what locals have dubbed the coast of this beautiful name - Costa del Maresme, which translated from Spanish means COAST FRUIT.
Costa del Maresme has traditionally been a place of fishermen and peasant villages, whose inhabitants engaged in the cultivation of grapes. Since the mid-twentieth century on the shore began to appear the summer residence of the wealthy residents of Barcelona, as well as upscale hotels for rich Europeans. Since the late 80-ies of the last century Spain invested heavily in the construction and reconstruction of coastal cities. This led to the transformation of Costa del Maresme into a thriving international tourist center.
First of all, the attractiveness of the region is provided by a mild Mediterranean climate and rich nature. The Pyrenees protect the coastal strip from the winds, the sun shines about 300 days a year. The average temperature in summer is 25-28 °C, in winter +8-10 °C. because of this, the beach season on the Costa del Maresme lasts from may to October.
Areas of the Costa del Maresme are many opportunities for a comfortable stay. Modern hotels, most of which is located 250 meters from the sea, will appreciate the high service and reasonable prices. In addition to the numerous restaurants and taverns, which are in abundance spread throughout the coast, will allow you to taste delicious national dishes and wine, listen to traditional Spanish music.
The closeness of the Costa del Maresme, to Barcelona provides a great opportunity to see all the cultural and historical monuments, art galleries, museums and the legendary creations of the famous architect Antonio Gaudi or just enjoy a walk in parks, old streets and alleys.
Rich historical heritage of the Costa del Maresme and the abundance of ancient architectural monuments of the Mediterranean cities in a stunning and pristine form, preserved till our time. For example, the Church of St. Nicholas, the tower of Torre d'en Riera, watchtower of the XVI century, the Palace-castle can Rates, St. Mary's Church of the XVI century in Baroque style, the Palace can Helpi and much more.
Holidays in Costa del Maresme is located right near a noisy and fun party with modern tourist center with a calm and peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the modern city. Costa del Maresme attracts a huge number of fans of extreme entertainment. The pristine nature of national parks with scenic landscapes are ideal for Hiking and eco-tourism, and the warm sea, the depth of which is stored a secret, attracts to Costa del Maresme professional divers and fans of scuba diving from around the world.
This resort area has a well-developed tourist infrastructure. The network of highways connecting all the resort cities and towns, as well as allow quick and comfortable access to Barcelona and Girona.
Along the coast parallel to the beach is a kind of railway with small and neat trains. Trains run every 30 minutes and make stops in all the resort towns. Settling in one place, is not difficult to explore almost the entire coast. In the height of the tourist season along the coast runs a tourist boat.
Housing is mostly low-rise buildings. Beautiful, well maintained urbanization from middle class hotels to luxury colourful kaleidoscope of change each other throughout the Costa del Maresme.
Costa del Maresme is just 30 cities, each of which has its own special charm, long history, interesting traditions and deserves your time to study with him. Take a little trip on the Costa del Maresme and see in resort cities and towns.
The first city that we will meet on the way from Barcelona to the North-East, will be
El Masnou is a luxury seaside town on the coast of Costa Maresme, the nearest large village 22 km North from the city center of Barcelona, attracted by the favorable strategic position. The proximity to Barcelona, excellent connections by rail or highways, relatively low real estate prices (compared to the Catalan capital) provide a stable demand for housing. In addition, El Masnou is the closest to Barcelona yachting port, Balis, has long become a synonym of prestige and elegance.
In El Masnou, first mentioned in Roman documents, today harmoniously combines old traditions with modern infrastructure. Wide, not too busy beaches with cool clear water and fine sand, the luxurious port and infrastructure have made it a favorite resort of the Catalan bourgeoisie, as evidenced by the monuments and modernist villas of amazing beauty. El Masnou is surrounded by businesses that play an important role in the production of medicines and textiles, and large flower plantations is a hallmark of the city.
Real estate in El Masnou is ideal for those who wish to live next door to Barcelona, while enjoying all the advantages of country life – fresh air, clean beaches and quiet. The city has something to interest visitors, regardless of the time of year or purpose of stay. New apartments or chalets in the upper part of the city or in a prestigious urbanization in the surrounding area are considered to be an expensive pleasure, but their comfort and panoramic views of the port and the sea are a good compensation. In the Old town mainly offers secondary housing, which, however, is more economical and corresponds to the unique flavor of the city.
Two of these town, located 25 km from the centre of Barcelona, was formerly a fishing district of the city Award, which eventually grew, and in 1841 was divided into two independent municipality.
Premiá de Mar – today is the second largest city in Costa del Maresme after Mataro. Patron of the new city was St. Christopher (Sant Cristòfol), in whose honour a Church was built, which now is the main temple in the city. One of the most interesting buildings in the city – the Textile Museum (Museu de l'estampació Tèxtil). The textile industry and now is the basis of the city's economy, alongside horticulture.
As with any seaside town the most beautiful place is the promenade. Premia de Mar is no exception: wide beach, fine sand, picturesque boulders, palm trees and endless sea.
The city is known for the Center of rehabilitation of marine animals, primarily turtles.
Premia de Dalt is the twin brother of Premia de Mar, located in a mountain valley, which offers magnificent panoramic views of the sea and the coast.
Vilassar de Mar (27 km from the centre of Barcelona) is a typical seaside town surrounded by greenery and flowers. The coast is the coastal strip with sandy beaches. Vilassar de Mar is known as the centre of floriculture and the best producer of flowers and ornamental plants.
The proximity to Barcelona makes real estate in Vilassar de Mar is very popular with foreign tourists, since it is possible to see all historical and architectural monuments, visit museums and art galleries or just go shopping.
Vilassar de Mar has many attractions, such as Torre d'en Riera, the Church of St. Nicholas, the castle can Rates, St. Mary's Church and much more.
Apart from sightseeing, you can engage in active sports, enjoy Mediterranean cuisine, Spanish wine in restaurants and cosy bars.
Vilassar de Dalt was first mentioned in historical documents in the tenth century a Small mountain village has a rich history, preserved some of the monuments. Today, both settlements represent the area of private residential complexes. Beautiful villas and cottages nestled on the slopes of the mountains. From almost every window enjoy views of the picturesque valleys, mountains and the sea.
Cabrils (Cabrils)
Like other resort towns of Costa Maresme, is a small Cabrils has the historical charm and Mediterranean flare. Located 10 km from Mataro and 30km from Barcelona, in a valley covered with magnificent pine forests, and surrounded by high hills serrada del Litoral, the city seems to be hidden from all winds and has a special microclimate.
Tree-lined streets, maintains the architectural heritage of the Arabs and the Visigoths, are interspersed with orange groves and rose plantations, anciently erected by the locals. The nearest beaches of Vilassar de Mar are close by, just 3 km away.
Quiet Mallorca, far from the "tourist trail", perfect for permanent residence of those who work in Mataro or Barcelona, and for a summer residence. In recent years, the city is actively developed and built up, many new buildings are characterized by fashionable design, ultra-modern amenities and offering spectacular panoramic sea and mountain views.
Cabrera-de-Mar (Cabrera de mar)
This dazzling small town 30 km from the centre of Barcelona perfectly combines mountain and sea, famous for its mild climate and friendly atmosphere. Due to its charming beauty, Cabrera de Mar is very popular among vacationers. It is a city full of surprises and charming corners that will not leave You indifferent. As the most popular sights and lesser known places that will charm the traveler.
In ancient times in Cabrera de Mar was the village of laitance. The monuments used this people paleohispanic letters exhibited in the Museum, and some of them are dated VI century BC
One of the oldest surviving architectural monuments is Burriac castle (Castell de Burriac), built in 1017 and is named after the mountain on which it stands.
Cabrera de Mar is a secluded quiet place, perfect for permanent living or family holidays. To purchase real estate, you can find a comfortable home or a luxurious Villa.
Not far from the major cities such as mataró, Badalonaand resorts Vilasar de Mar, Cabrils, etc., to which train will take You in a few minutes.
Mataró (Mataró)
This is one of the fastest growing cities of Catalonia, 35km from the centre of Barcelona. Founded during the Roman Empire, modern Mataro is considered the capital of the Costa del Maresme. The city has preserved many monuments of antiquity, built by the Romans, as well as buildings in the Baroque or art Nouveau a later time. Here you can endlessly contemplate the monuments of different eras, and, tired of this endless beauty, it is advisable to go down to the sea and enjoy the view, inhale the fresh sea breeze, swim and sunbathe.
Mataro can be called an attractive place, both for holidays and as a permanent residence. Free from the crazy pace of Barcelona and characterized by moderate housing prices, Mataro, however, has all the advantages of a big city: well-developed infrastructure, convenient transport communications, construction of new areas, active industry, etc.
Sant Andreu de Llavaneres (Sant Andreu de Llavaneres)
Sant-Andreu-de-Llavaneres (42 km from the centre of Barcelona), a small but very cosy town is located in a very privileged area of the Costa Blanca - between the sea and the natural Park. Most of the territory of the municipality is occupied elite residential complexes and private villas and mansions. Sant Andreu de Llavaneres famous for its Marina "Port Balis", tennis club and Golf club. In the nearest time the city authorities plan to build a new modern sports complex which will give a new serious impulse to the development of sport in this corner of the coast. Here you will find the use of the clubs fans of football, tennis, Golf, horse riding, sailing, "marine extreme", as well as supporters of walking and Cycling, both among locals and Spanish tourists and foreign residents, who are happy to migrate to this coast, finding here not only great natural Paradise but also full of opportunities for interesting, socially active life.
Sant Vicent de Montalt (Sant Vicente de Montalt
Sant Vicent de Montalt - sprawling green hills is a romantic medieval town, which is preferred by fans with exclusive properties in quiet neighborhoods, far from mass tourism areas. The city is located in the heart of Maresme, just 2 km from Golden beaches and 45 km from Barcelona. The turquoise sea and deep green velvet piny mountains creates unforgettable scenery makes this place one of the most attractive for living and relaxing. The stylish chalets and townhouses with ultra-modern urbanization with sea and mountain views, built in two steps from the maze of shady alleys of the historical centre, always popular with those wishing to buy property here
For the first time mentioned in Chronicles of 10th century, Sant Vicente de Montalt is still keeping under the shelter of your home picturesque views, luxurious mansions and impressive fortresses. The development of winemaking and tourism "awarded" this charming town is active with urban planning, which resulted in the active development of the scenic area of town, but it had no effect on his quiet nature and measured pace of life of the inhabitants. Here you can enjoy silence and comfort, without giving up modern comfort.
Sant Vicent de Montalt has a mild climate and a privileged geographical position. Transport links will allow you to reach Barcelona in half an hour by bus, train or car. In just a few minutes drive to the famous beaches or to wine-producing zones. Golf enthusiasts can play at nearby courses, famous throughout Europe, and a 5-minute drive away are the famous thermal springs of the town of Caldes D'estrac.
Arenys de Mar (Arenys de Mar)
Arenys de Mar is a large centre of the coast of Maresme, a typical seaside fishing town, hidden in the folds of the hills of the nature reserve of Montseny. It wonderfully combines the artistic heritage of 400 years of history, the beauty of its wide beaches and modern amenities. The proximity to Barcelona, which is only 44 km, and a rapidly growing infrastructure, almost no impact on quiet character of the town, the comfort of its streets and the hospitality of the locals.
The most important port of Arenys de Mar, long time former only on the coast of Costa Maresme, and today fishing remains the main base for the coast (local prawns and squid are famous all over the Europe!), and provides a whole array of possibilities to practice water sports or boat trips on the yacht. Don't miss this colorful action, daily fish market or relax on its large beaches with white sand.
In the rapidly growing city has all the necessities of life for permanent residents and those who wish to purchase a property for summer activities: medical institutions, schools and colleges, the thermal baths and hotels, as well as its own municipal station.
The symbol of the city – a picturesque Avenue Riera (Riera), in a dry riverbed and planted with centuries-old trees, the main commercial artery of the city and the epicenter of its social and cultural activity; namely, there are jazz festivals, art events and favoured by the locals lush holidays.
Here, in the square Plaça de l Eglésia, is the Church of the Holy virgin Mary (Eglésia parroquial de Santa Maria), built in 1583-1628, in the Renaissance style with Gothic elements. Inside is the incredible beauty of the altar 1636 the work of Antoni Riera Joan (Joan Antoni Riera). Also interesting a unique Museum of lace and the Museum of marine minerals. Preserved defensive tower, built in the days of the raids of the Berber pirates, impart to the city a special seaside charm. Arenys de Mar has several warm mineral springs. The temperature in the popular Spa resort of Titus - 38°C.
Arenys de Mar is an excellent example of the Mediterranean resort, where for a short period of time to get a lot of bright impressions and to restore health. Due to good transport links, by train or by car, You are in just 40 minutes you reach the center of Barcelona, an hour's drive from the mysterious monastery of Monserrat and 30 minutes to historic Girona.
Canet-de-Mar (Canet de Mar)
Boom of recent years in the real estate market of Spain gave a tangible impetus to the development of this Catalan village, located 53 km from the centre of Barcelona. Tourism and the related construction sector, followed by agriculture (cultivation of flowers and strawberries) – the main directions of economic activity of the municipality. Within the city limits are two beaches, the rapid pace of the construction of the seafront promenade and parks.
Sant-Pol-de-Mar (Sant Pol de Mar)
In Sant Pol de Mar (54 km from the centre of Barcelona) is situated the most cozy family hotels in the Costa Maresme. This city is famous for some of the most interesting old churches in Catalonia, but also in its gastronomy and confectionery. On the main street is the restaurant "Sant Pau" owned by Carme ruscalleda the world – famous chef.
Calella (Calella)
the largest resort on the Costa Maresme , and one of the largest tourist centers of the province, located in 57 km from the centre of Barcelona and 50 km from Girona. The resort has a unique climate, because protected from cold winds by a mountain range of Montnegre-Corredor.
Due to good location and good beaches, holiday in Calella for many years attracts tourists from different countries, and also gives the opportunity to purchase affordable place for temporary or permanent residence. Well-developed communication tools, having a home here, to live the cultural life of both capitals of Catalonia, and to travel freely in the region or in neighbouring France. City, leading its history since the 1st century BC, is a good combination of interesting "layered" architecture and excellent infrastructure with numerous shops, bars, restaurants and discos. Among other advantages of the town – a vast pedestrian zone in the centre with a proprietary "direct".
Luxurious 3 km-long sandy beach, picturesque coves and cliffs, the clear sea is the basis of tourist attractiveness of the city. Calella is ideal for outdoor activities. There is a club of scuba diving, you can do all sorts of beach and water sports. The city has many modern hotels, bars, restaurants and shops for every taste and budget.
Real estate in Calella attracts those who seek the residence in dynamic tourist city only one hour drive from Barcelona. If You need a quieter place, it is better to concentrate on finding prestigious homes in rural areas or villas in the surrounding area.
Pineda-de-Mar (Pineda de Mar)
Sea and pine trees, numerous green parks, a beautiful promenade, sandy beaches, cafes and restaurants with outdoor terraces is what makes the city Pineda de Mar (60 km from the centre of Barcelona) so attractive to tourists. The city is divided into the historical part, is formed around the parish Church and a tourist promenade, along which are hotels, shops and restaurants.
Of the attractions in the city you can highlight the Church of Saint Maria of the XVI century, interesting for its unusual façade in Baroque style, the Palace can Jalpi, built in the XV-XVI centuries, as well as archaeological artifacts, such as ancient Roman aqueduct and guard towers.
In winter, the life here stops, that is not a disadvantage. In such a hectic lives most resort towns: fast-paced, fun and active summer, and slowly, calm and quiet in the winter.
Santa Susanna (Santa Susanna)
the historic Spa town (62 km from the centre of Barcelona) surrounded by pine forests. From almost any point of the city offer panoramic views of the sea, coastline and mountains.
Santa Susanna is the center of family tourism. There are wide sandy beaches, the sea has a gentle slope, equipped areas for children, a diving school. The resort area of the city is located along the coast and seamlessly connects with the neighbouring resort of Malgrat de Mar with a lively tourist promenade where shops, malls, bars, restaurants, cafes, discos and night entertainment centers. The historical part of the city lies above the highway, on the picturesque hills covered with dense vegetation. Here you can see the impressive watchtower of the 16th century and renovated Palace-castle Castell de Can Rates, on the territory which is now the cultural and artistic center. Next to the old town is a beautiful Park Parque Natural de la Font del Boter with healing springs and one of Europe's best dolphinariums. Alpata valley, bounded on one side by the ocean and rocky cliffs, provides a particularly mild Mediterranean climate.
Santa Susanna is a relatively young resort, having the most modern infrastructure on the coast. In the city there are many old castles, churches, towers and modernist villas, which is so nice to open, walking in the streets, open to the sea breeze.
Unlike resort areas, the town centre, where are located the city hall, institutions, supermarkets and sports facilities, is located on a hill 1 km from the sea and consists entirely of private houses and villas, both old and new, all with gorgeous views of the coast. Prevail stylish single-storey cottages, high-rise buildings is almost there. Santa Susanna is considered a city for connoisseurs of nature and the serene life by the sea and an ideal base for travel – pass through the city national road N-II from Madrid to France, connecting it with the rest. To Barcelona and Girona, is located at an equal distance from the resort, less than an hour to reach by car, bus or train, following along the coast.
Malgrat-de-Mar (Malgrat de Mar)
the last village of the Costa Maresme (68 km from the centre of Barcelona).
Malgrat de Mar is a charming town, well-developed tourist centre in the North of the province of Barcelona, on the border with the province of Girona. The beaches of Malgrat de Mar, which stretches for 4 km – one of the most frequented of the coast. Merging with the nearby town of Santa Susanna, Malgrat de Mar, forms a coastal resort area with the developed infrastructure, numerous shopping centers, schools sailing and Windsurfing, restaurants, bars and open-air disco. Near the town is the famous water Park "Marineland" with lots of water attractions for adults and adolescents. There in the Park and a special children's area with three pools and attractions for young children. The Park regularly hosts shows featuring dolphins, sea lions and parrots. You can watch the life of seals and penguins, living in spacious enclosures. Daily to the Park dozens of buses arrive with tourists from all over the coast.
Malgrat de Mar is the most fast-growing developments in the city. From him almost to the Barcelona along the coast, along the famous strawberry plantations and fruit groves, stretches a continuous line of pretty villages, luxury residences and entire blocks of beautiful villas with underground garages, swimming pools and extensive gardens. It was here purchase property those who for those looking for stunning sea views, tranquility and remoteness from Barcelona. The town itself is divided conditionally on two parts: the old, whose narrow streets keep the memory of its ancient origin (here are located the city hall, schools and kindergartens, many old bars and a number of modernist palaces and villas), and a new, wide promenade, modern quarters, hotels, boutiques and entertainment centers. Vibrant cultural life with an abundance of events, festivals and fairs will not get bored and after the end of the season, but just 1-1,5 hours reachable by bus or train to Barcelona and Girona.
