Visiting Marimurtra, the Costa Brava's clifftop garden
Perched on the rugged cliffs of Blanes, the Marimurtra Botanical Garden is more than just a plant collection. It is a constant dialogue between land and sea, a landscaped masterpiece where botany brushes against the endless horizon of the Mediterranean.
Why is this garden a Costa Brava icon?
This exceptional site is the product of the vision and personal wealth of Carl Faust, a German businessman with a passion for natural sciences. Starting in 1924, he dedicated his life to transforming this rocky promontory into a sanctuary for plants from all over the world, while providing visitors with views across the coastline.
Today, Marimurtra is recognized as one of the most important botanical gardens in Europe, housing more than four thousand species in a dramatic natural setting. It is a place that nourishes both the scientific mind and the contemplative soul.
A three-part journey facing the sea
The visit is organized into three distinct zones that take you through the globe's climates, with the blue of the sea remaining a constant backdrop. Every step reveals a new atmosphere, new scents, and new colors.
The subtropical garden
This first section immerses you in tropical exuberance. Towering palms, giant bamboos, and prehistoric cycads create a lush maze where sunlight struggles to pierce the dense canopy. The calls of exotic birds that have found refuge here add to the feeling of being far from home.
The temperate garden
The atmosphere shifts as you enter the temperate zone. You will find collections of plants from Asia, America, and Europe, along with coniferous forests and flower beds that change with the seasons. This section is more open, offering clear, dramatic views of the coast.
The Mediterranean garden
Here, the garden blends into its natural environment. Fragrant pines, rosemary, lavender, and rockrose compose a landscape typical of the Costa Brava. This is the most arid section, descending furthest toward the cliffs.
The Linnaeus Temple, a window to the blue
The highlight of the visit is undoubtedly the Linnaeus Temple, a small classical-style structure dedicated to the famous Swedish naturalist. Its white columns stand out against the deep blue of the sea, framing an unforgettable panorama of the crique de Sa Forcanera (Sa Forcanera Cove) below. It is an incredibly photogenic spot, where you will instinctively stop to contemplate the perfect fusion of human architecture and natural majesty.
Insider tip: To avoid the steep hike up from the harbor, especially in the heat, take the bus botànic, a small tourist shuttle. The ride is convenient and drops you right at the garden entrance, allowing you to save your energy for the walk through the grounds.
Opening hours
*Information subject to change
What a lovely garden! There is an entrance fee so I only visited once, but we were all won over by what we saw. The plants, the flowers, the overall layout of the paths, the views of the sea, truly the most beautiful spot in Blanes.