Staying at a casa rural in the Costa Brava allows you to fully embrace the region’s nature, culture, and tranquillity
The Costa Brava is often associated with vibrant coastal towns and busy tourist hotspots, but for those seeking something quieter and more authentic, the region’s rural side offers a different experience. A stay in a casa rural allows travellers to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of the region at their own pace, whether it’s relaxing in a peaceful countryside setting, exploring picturesque villages, or hiking in the nearby hills.
For many, traditional holiday destinations can feel overwhelming—overcrowded beaches, noisy accommodation, and a sense of being disconnected from the local culture. A casa rural in the Costa Brava offers seclusion, relaxation, and a deeper connection to the area’s heritage. These rural homes are often nestled in scenic landscapes, giving visitors the opportunity to unwind while still being within reach of the Costa Brava’s natural and cultural highlights.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top options in the Costa Brava, helping you find the perfect place to stay. Whether you’re after a cosy cottage in the mountains or a traditional farmhouse near the coast, this article will help you discover the ideal retreat for your next getaway.
Why choose a casa rural in the Costa Brava?
If you’re searching for a holiday that goes beyond the typical tourist trail, a casa rural in the Costa Brava affords you the opportunity to unwind in peaceful surroundings and explore the region’s rich heritage.
Escape the tourist hotspots
While the Costa Brava’s coastline is famous for its vibrant beaches and resorts, the region’s rural areas offer a more peaceful and authentic alternative. Staying in a casa rural allows visitors to escape the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots and enjoy a slower pace of life. These rural homes are often tucked away in scenic countryside, surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and hills. For those tired of crowded hotels and noisy environments, a casa rural offers a retreat where tranquillity and relaxation are central.
Cultural immersion
Choosing a casa rural in the Costa Brava also brings you closer to the region’s traditions and way of life. Many rural homes are run by locals who share their knowledge of Catalan culture. Guests can enjoy traditional cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients, learn about regional customs, and experience hospitality that comes from small, family-run establishments. Whether it’s participating in a local festival, visiting nearby farms, or enjoying a home-cooked meal, a stay in a casa rural allows travellers to immerse themselves in local culture.
Nature and adventure
For outdoor enthusiasts, staying in a casa rural offers easy access to the Costa Brava’s landscapes. From the rugged Pyrenees to the vineyards of Empordà, the countryside is full of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching. Many rural homes are near nature reserves, forests, or mountains, making them perfect bases for exploring the region. Whether you’re looking for adventure or simply want to relax in a peaceful setting, a casa rural places you in the heart of nature.
Best regions in the Costa Brava for casa rural stays
The Costa Brava isn’t just about the coastline; its inland regions are home to some of Spain’s most beautiful countryside, offering the perfect backdrop for a casa rural stay. Whether you prefer the rolling hills of Empordà or the volcanic landscapes of Garrotxa, each area offers a unique combination of nature, history, and culture. Here are some of the best regions for a rural retreat.
Alt Empordà
Alt Empordà is a diverse region where coastal and mountainous landscapes meet, offering an ideal backdrop for a relaxing stay in a casa rural. Staying in a rural home here allows visitors to enjoy the best of both worlds: the rugged beauty of the Cap de Creus peninsula and the tranquillity of the Albera massif. Many of the accommodations in Alt Empordà are surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, making them perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in the region’s agricultural traditions.
Villages like Sant Llorenç de la Muga and Garriguella offer charming, historic surroundings, with accommodation provided in centuries-old stone buildings. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby mountains provide excellent hiking opportunities, while those interested in culture can easily visit Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí. Whether you’re exploring the coastline or enjoying a glass of local wine at your rural retreat, Alt Empordà offers a peaceful yet enriching experience.
Recommended accommodation in Alt Empordà
- Masos Can Sot
Located in a peaceful countryside area near Figueres, this casa rural is perfect for families or couples seeking a rural retreat with access to both the coast and the Albera massif. The property features spacious accommodations surrounded by olive groves and vineyards.
Booking.com - Mas Renart
This beautifully restored 17th-century farmhouse is surrounded by vineyards and offers luxurious rural accommodations. The property is perfect for those interested in wine tourism and exploring the nearby cultural sites, such as Peralada and Figueres.
Booking.com - Mas Palou (Roses)
Situated close to the town of Roses, Mas Palou is a rural hotel housed in a traditional Catalan farmhouse. It offers a tranquil setting with easy access to both the beaches of the Costa Brava and the countryside. It’s perfect for guests who want to explore the nearby Cap de Creus and the cultural heritage of Alt Empordà.
Booking.com
Baix Empordà
Baix Empordà is renowned for its picturesque medieval villages, and staying in a casa rural here offers a unique opportunity to experience the region’s rural charm first-hand. Many rural homes are located near villages such as Pals, Peratallada, and Monells, giving visitors the chance to explore these beautifully preserved historical sites while enjoying the comforts of a traditional farmhouse or countryside villa.
Rural accommodation in Baix Empordà is often set amid rolling hills, farmlands, and olive groves, making them perfect for those seeking a tranquil and scenic holiday. Some properties even provide access to hiking and cycling routes, allowing guests to discover the surrounding countryside. Additionally, the proximity to the coast means you can enjoy both inland tranquillity and easy trips to the nearby Mediterranean beaches. Whether you’re interested in the region’s culinary delights, local markets, or simply relaxing in a serene environment, Baix Empordà provides a well-rounded rural experience.
Recommended accommodation in Baix Empordà
- Can Bassa
This 14th-century rural house in the medieval village of Madremanya offers a peaceful setting with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. The house blends rustic charm with modern comforts and is an excellent base for exploring both the inland villages and nearby coast.
Booking.com - Mas Petit
Situated in the heart of Baix Empordà, this casa rural offers traditional stone houses surrounded by beautiful gardens and farmland. The location is ideal for those wanting to explore the nearby beaches and medieval villages like Pals and Peratallada.
Mas Petit - Can Puigmiquel
A beautifully restored stone farmhouse in the heart of the Baix Empordà countryside, Can Puigmiquel offers a rustic yet comfortable stay. Its location is perfect for exploring medieval villages like Monells and Peratallada, as well as enjoying the nearby natural landscapes.
Can Puigmiquel
Garrotxa
The Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park is a landscape shaped by more than 40 dormant volcanic cones and ancient lava flows, making it one of the most unique natural areas in Catalonia. The park showcases diverse terrain, from rugged volcanic formations to lush forests. One of its most remarkable features is the Fageda d’en Jordà, a beech forest that grows on solidified lava from past eruptions. This high-altitude forest provides a special hiking experience, where towering beech trees rise from volcanic soil, creating a serene and unique environment.
The park offers numerous trails that lead to the craters of extinct volcanoes like Santa Margarida and Croscat, where visitors can appreciate panoramic views and gain insight into the area’s volcanic history. Whether you’re hiking, cycling, or simply soaking in the landscape, the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park provides an ideal setting for exploring nature at its most diverse.
Staying in a casa rural here means easy access to these natural wonders, making it an ideal base for discovering the raw beauty and volcanic legacy of the region.
Recommended accommodation in Garrotxa
- Mas Ombravella
This rural house is nestled in the Garrotxa countryside, surrounded by forests and meadows. Located close to the volcanic park, it offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling, making it ideal for families or nature enthusiasts.
Booking.com - Mas Planadevall
Located in the picturesque Vall d’en Bas, Mas Planadevall is a traditional Catalan farmhouse offering rustic charm and modern comfort. The property is surrounded by lush greenery and provides easy access to the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, making it perfect for those who want to explore the unique volcanic landscapes and nearby hiking trails. It’s an ideal retreat for families, couples, and nature lovers looking to immerse themselves in the tranquillity of the region.
Booking.com - Casa Rural Anna
Located in the quiet village of Mieres, Casa Rural Anna offers a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for families or couples looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone. The house is fully equipped and offers a private garden, making it perfect for relaxation after a day of exploring the nearby hiking trails or visiting the Fageda d’en Jordà beech forest. Its central location provides easy access to the park’s volcanic cones, as well as other nearby attractions like Santa Pau and the Besalú medieval town.
Booking.com
La Selva
La Selva is an underrated gem, offering a blend of coastal and countryside experiences. Known as la terra dels castells – the land of castles – La Selva is home to several medieval fortresses, and staying in a casa rural here provides visitors with a unique perspective on the region’s history and culture. Many rural accommodations are located in or near historical towns such as Santa Coloma de Farners, where visitors can explore local traditions, weekly markets, and festivals.
Rural accommodation in La Selva is often surrounded by lush forests, olive groves, and fertile farmland. The region’s natural beauty makes it ideal for those who want to combine outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling with cultural exploration. For those seeking coastal experiences, La Selva’s rural homes also offer easy access to the nearby beaches of the Costa Brava. The region provides a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, or solo travellers looking for an authentic rural retreat.
Recommended accommodation in La Selva
- Can Vila
Located just outside the historic town of Santa Coloma de Farners, this rural house offers a peaceful escape with views of the surrounding countryside. It’s a great base for exploring La Selva’s castles and enjoying both coastal and inland adventures.
Booking.com - Masía El Buxaus
This rustic casa rural is located in the Montseny Natural Park, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Perfect for those who love nature and hiking, it’s also close to the medieval towns of La Selva and the nearby Costa Brava beaches.
Booking.com - Mas Duc
Set in the peaceful countryside near Brunyola, Mas Duc is a beautifully renovated 18th-century farmhouse offering comfortable accommodations. With its large garden, swimming pool, and proximity to both the coast and the medieval towns of La Selva, it’s an ideal retreat for families and couples alike.
Tripadvisor
Key factors to consider when choosing a casa rural
Choosing the right casa rural in the Costa Brava can significantly shape your holiday experience. From location and amenities to sustainability and the type of travellers you are, there are several important factors to consider before making your choice.
- Location and accessibility: When selecting the perfect casa rural in the Costa Brava, location is key. Some travellers may prefer total seclusion, nestled in the countryside, while others might want easy access to nearby towns or major attractions. It’s important to consider how accessible the casa rural is—many rural properties are best reached by car, so if you’re relying on public transport, check how far it is from the nearest station or town.
- Amenities and comfort levels: Not all casa rural stays offer the same level of comfort. Some properties maintain their rustic charm with basic amenities, while others offer more luxurious touches, such as private pools or modern interiors. Consider whether you need amenities like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, or a fully equipped kitchen, or if you’re happy to embrace a simpler, more traditional rural experience.
- Sustainability and eco-friendliness: As sustainable tourism grows, many casa rural options in the Costa Brava have adopted eco-friendly practices. These include solar power, water recycling systems, and sourcing food locally. If you value eco-consciousness, look for houses that are part of the eco-tourism movement.
- Family, couple, or solo traveller?: Consider who you’re travelling with. Families may need extra space and child-friendly amenities, couples might prefer intimate settings with romantic views, and solo travellers may seek wellness retreats. Tailor your accommodation choice to fit your group’s needs.
Your casa rural on the Costa Brava awaits
Staying in a casa rural in the Costa Brava offers a peaceful and immersive way to experience the region’s beauty and culture. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, the Costa Brava has a casa rural to suit every type of traveller. By considering location, amenities, and the type of experience you want, you can find the perfect casa rural for your next getaway.
