mbCDQ | 19 Sep 2018
Cadaques is more than just another seafront Mediterranean village. Situated around a narrow, v-shaped bay, the distinctive geography means that Cadaques looks both out to sea and, narcissistically, inwards at itself. The east flank of Cadaques maintains a constant vigil over the west and vice versa. In the centre, the church of Santa Maria rises above the old quarter, providing the classic image of the village, with the coastal hills as a spectacular backdrop. Generally recognised as one of the prettiest villages in the whole of Spain, Cadaques is a photographer's delight, with stunning vantage points and an old town whose narrow streets and old townhouses ooze Mediterranean charm.
Here is our very quick overview of the main areas within the village and those just outside:
The oldest part of the village, the old walls have long gone, but the narrow streets and buildings have been well preserved, something that can't often be said of Spanish coastal towns. Clustered around, and below, the church of Santa Maria, the old quarter has a picture postcard charm to it, with whitewashed town houses lining narrow stone streets (not cobbles, but slate) which become a riot of colour in Spring when the bougainvillea comes to life. The old quarter is home to the majority of the town's galleries and artists, as well as a good many small, independent (and independently minded) boutiques and shops selling hand-made or original products.
Moving eastwards along the coast from the Platja Gran you find first the tiny beach of Es Poal and then the slightly larger Platja Pianc.The beach at Es Poal is popular as a starting point for local fishermen, and their small white wooden boats occupy most of the back of the beach in summer. Behind the beach you'll find a small but interesting cluster of restaurants and shops. Take a table on the terrace of the MF Enoteca and try one of the wines from their own vineyard in their own bar. The enoteca also makes a good starting point for a walk to the house of Dali in Port LLigat. Take Calle Miranda immediately to the right of the bar . It's 15 minutes by foot from here, though be aware that the first part is pretty steep. Art lover's might want come back in the evening and visit the galleries in Horta de en Sanés, the street parallel to Calle Miranda.
The area behind Es Poal is very similar to, but quieter than, the old quarter. It's quite easy to get lost in, but is well worth a stroll. Though some of the linking
A few hundred metres along the beach at Es Poal is the slightly larger beach at Es Pianc. Storms in recent years seem to have replenished the sand here, and entry to the water is easy. The Hotel Playa Sol is located directly behind the beach. It's southwest-facing rooms have arguably the best view in Cadaques.
A more prosaic part of the viallge, Sa Guarda nevertheless enjoys great views over the village (albeit from behind) and out to sea. It's also a great starting point for a walk or mountain bike ride on the many trials and dirt tracks in the Cap de Creus Natural Park.
The village's second pharmacy is here too, which is always useful to know.
Everything you need to know about Cadaques from the best beaches in the area, to walking routes in the Cap de Creus Natural Park and advice for visiting the Casa/Museu Salvador Dali.
Our guide to the many restaurants and bars of Cadaques, Spain. From former hippy hangouts to live music venues and sophisticated waterside dining, there are more than 100 bars and restaurants to choose from.
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