Visiting Lloret de Mar
Lloret de Mar has a reputation as a high-energy party town. Located in the province of Girona, just a short distance from Barcelona, it is a staple on the European spring break circuit. Travelers flock here for bar hopping and sprawling beaches, but there is more to the area than just nightlife.
The Costa Brava, an ideal seaside destination
The beach is the primary draw for most visitors to Lloret de Mar. The town boasts 4.3 miles of sandy coastline that stays packed with locals and vacationers throughout the warmer months. The largest is Platja de Lloret, a one-kilometer stretch located right by the town center. It is set up for total convenience, offering jet-skiing, parasailing, kayaking, kids' clubs, and various snack kiosks. However, locals often prefer Platja de Fenals, which is tucked behind a rocky outcrop. Because it is sheltered from the wind, the water is calmer, making it a better spot for an all-day beach session. About two miles outside the center lies Platja de Santa Cristina. This scenic cove sits beneath a cliff topped by the chapelle de l'Ermitage (Hermitage Chapel). After a swim, head up to the chapel to see the garden and interior frescoes.
Local heritage worth exploring
Do not dismiss Lloret de Mar as just a beach resort. If you look past the party scene, the town has a distinct historical side. Start at the main square to see the 19th-century neoclassical town hall. From there, head to the église paroissiale de Sant Romà (Sant Romà Parish Church), which is easily spotted by its colorful tiled roofs. The structure has evolved significantly through various renovations between the 16th and 20th centuries. Finally, the jardins de Santa Clotilde (Santa Clotilde Gardens) offer a quiet escape with a park full of statues, fountains, and footbridges. The view from the top of the lookout point provides a great perspective of the surrounding coastline, which feels somewhat like the dramatic cliffs along the California coast near Big Sur.
When to go
Lloret de Mar operates on a summer schedule, dictated by the influx of tourists coming for the beach and the nightlife. If you want a high-energy atmosphere, visit during the peak summer months. If you prefer a quieter experience, aim for the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, provided you avoid school holiday periods. Winter is generally quiet and not recommended, as many hotels and restaurants shut down for the season.
How to get there
Lloret de Mar is about an hour drive from Barcelona, which is where you should fly into. If you are not renting a car, you can catch a bus from the city to Lloret de Mar, which takes about 90 minutes. If you are traveling from the south of France, the town is a 3.5-hour drive from Toulouse via the A61 and A9 motorways.
If you like to party, then this is the perfect destination for you. On the other hand, if you are with your family or looking for some peace and quiet, this is not the best city for you. Personally, I did not really enjoy it. The city must be quieter in the spring and fall.