Costa Brava · Alt Empordà
Mas Santa Caterina sits at the foot of the Montgrí Massif, 10 minutes from the sea, and surrounded by flat agricultural land perfect for cycling. Whether you are looking for a challenging mountain trail, a gentle paddle along the coast, or the best anchovy in Catalonia – it is all within easy reach. Dogs are welcome almost everywhere.
Sport & Nature
From a stroll along the dunes to a demanding mountain ridge – the range of activities suits everyone in the family.
Trails begin right outside the gate. The Montgrí Natural Park offers routes of all difficulty levels through garrigue, rocky ridges and past medieval watchtowers, with sweeping views of the coast and the Pyrenees. Dogs must be kept on a leash in the park.
The flat farmland between Sobrestany and Bellcaire d'Empordà is perfect for cycling with children. Bike rental is available in Torroella de Montgrí (5 min by car). E-bikes make longer loops to Ullastret or L'Escala very accessible. The Ter river path is particularly scenic.
L'Escala harbour is the ideal base for sea kayaking along the rugged Costa Brava coast. Several rental operators offer kayak and stand-up paddleboard hire. More experienced sailors can rent boats from the marina. The calm bay is excellent for beginners and children.
The wide sandy beaches near L'Escala and the secluded coves towards Estartit are within 10–20 minutes. The official dog beach Platja del Rec del Molí in L'Escala welcomes dogs all year long. In summer, many beaches have lifeguards and water-sport rental directly on the sand.
Food & Culture
The Alt Empordà is one of Catalonia's great food regions: anchovies, seafood rice, wild mushrooms, artisanal cheeses, and a thriving DO wine scene.
L'Escala has been salt-curing anchovies for centuries. Visit one of the salaó workshops in the old town for a tasting and to buy a jar to take home. Anchovy-based dishes appear on nearly every restaurant menu in the region.
Torroella de Montgrí holds its weekly market every Monday morning – a lively mix of fresh vegetables, local cheese, charcuterie and artisan stalls. L'Escala market runs on Sundays. In summer, many towns have evening craft markets along the promenade.
The DO Empordà produces excellent whites, rosés and reds. Several bodegas near Garrigoles and Ullastret offer tastings. In Torroella and L'Escala you will find good restaurants with shaded terraces that welcome dogs – perfect for a long lunch after a morning hike.
For All Guests
We know that holidays mean something different when you travel with a dog or young children. The area around Sobrestany is exceptionally well-suited to both.
Day Trips
Sobrestany sits at the heart of one of Europe's most culturally and naturally rich regions. Here are some of our favourite day trips.
≈ 10 min
Greek and Roman city ruins on a beautiful bay. One of the most remarkable archaeological sites in Spain.
≈ 20 min
A protected marine reserve with exceptional snorkelling and diving. Boat trips from Estartit harbour.
≈ 30 min
The Dalí Theatre-Museum is one of the most visited museums in Spain – an unmissable surrealist experience.
≈ 35 min
Medieval walled city with a magnificent cathedral, Jewish quarter, and excellent restaurants. Walk the famous walls.
≈ 45 min
The easternmost point of the Iberian Peninsula. Wild, windswept and beautiful – a protected natural park with dramatic coves.
≈ 90 min
A day in the mountains: Núria, Ripoll or the Garrotxa volcanic zone make for spectacular contrast to the coastal landscape.
Book your stay at Mas Santa Caterina and make this your base for an unforgettable week on the Costa Brava.