Cadaqués town, Catalunya
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Cadaqués - by Joaquin Aranoa from Pixabay
Description
Cadaqués is a small town nested along the Mediterranean coastline of the Cap de Creus Peninsula, in north-eastern Catalunya. It is known for its whitewashed houses and traditional feel, its large 20th century emigration to Cuba (many of whom later returned having been financially successful) and as a regular destination for artists such as Salvador Dalí (who had a house in Port Lligat next door), Picasso, Pitxot, Miró or Marcel Duchamp. Highlights for visitors include the Church of St. Mary (that can be seen on all pictures of the village), the Natural Park of Cap de Creus (covered under a separate review) and the Salvador Dalí House-Museum (1km walk).
Access & Transport
The closest town is Figueres, 35km / 40mins inland, there are some bus services running from there. Figueres is only 25km from the French border and it is on the train line and expressway linking Barcelona to Perpignan (FR) via Girona.
Instructions & Recommendations
We would recommend staying one or two nights in the village if you are in a slow travel mode. Otherwise, besides the main sights mentioned in the "description" section, a visit to Cadaqués can be complemented by a drive or hike up to the Sant Pere de Rodes Monastery and a visit of the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres. In addition, the ruins of Empúries are only 40km away and can be visited as a half day trip if you have your own car.
Environmental & Social
Environmentally neutral (no carbon footprint). Positive from a social perspective as tourism helps preserve the town's cultural heritage and provides economic activity to the community but there is an increasing issue of over-commercialization.
Conclusion
If you like seaside villages for their atmosphere and setting rather than their beach, then you have come to the right place but, in our opinion, it does get overly commercial in the summer season. The town is picturesque and the various cultural and outdoor activities backed by culinary tourism position Cadaqués as a strong candidate for a visit far longer than half a day.
Key positive
Amazing setting and surrounding scenery
A few charming lanes and great food options
Key negative
A little time consuming to get to without car
Too commercial and average beach
Suitability
The seafront and most of the village is accessible for visitors with reduced mobility but some streets are cobbled and a little steep whilst the surrounding countryside paths include stairs.
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h
est. visit time:4h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo