When we think of Malgrat de Mar, the first thing that probably comes to mind is its long stretches of beaches with fine, golden sand. It’s no surprise: this coastal town located north of the Maresme and close to the Costa Brava, has been an iconic summer getaway destination for decades. But Malgrat de Mar is much more than that. With certified family-friendly tourism and a genuine commitment to sustainability, this town, with a long seafaring and farming tradition, deserves to be rediscovered from a slower, more active, and mindful perspective.
Sun, sea, and much more
With nearly 4.5 km of wide, well-equipped beaches, Malgrat de Mar offers an ideal setting for those looking to relax and enjoy the sea, but also for those who want to play sports, go for a walk, or simply connect with nature. Indeed, among its chief attractions are the natural areas that surround the town, harbouring a wealth of valuable ecological resources.
The Tordera river delta, between Malgrat and Blanes, is one such place. As a refuge and resting spot for many migratory birds, it is one of the most biodiverse points along the Catalan coast. The mix of fresh and brackish waters creates a habitat rich in fauna and flora, constantly transformed by the action of the sea and the river. Nearby, La Conca beach stands out for its dune area and psammophilous plants, made up of species adapted to extreme conditions, some of which have medicinal and culinary uses. Some unique animals have also been observed in this natural setting, such as the loggerhead turtle—a species at risk of extinction that lives in the open sea and comes ashore at night only to lay its eggs—and the Kentish plover, a protected bird known for being very noisy during breeding season.
A return to origins
As well as the coast, Malgrat de Mar features agricultural areas inherited from a long local farming history that is still alive today, allowing us to taste products like Ganxet beans, which have protected designation of origin status. Walking or cycling along the paths that wind through the Pla de Grau fields, you can immerse yourself in this agricultural tradition and see first-hand how Malgrat has managed to preserve its rural environment by integrating it into its tourism offer.
The town, completely flat and accessible, invites you to stroll through its old quarter, whether walking around its markets and terraces or by following one of the urban routes designed to showcase its historical and architectural heritage. From modernist houses to the Castle hill —the town’s only high point, and connected to the centre by an inclined lift—Malgrat surprises with the variety of cultural and scenic elements it offers. With guided tours organized by the Town Council, you can discover the Roman legacy, 19th-century summer architecture, or the traces of the Civil War in the town.
A sea of possibilities
If you’re a fan of active tourism, Malgrat de Mar’s potential is enormous: long-distance trails (GR), local routes, and paths linking the sea with Montnegre allow for hiking, cycling, or simply spending time outdoors in a safe, well-signposted environment.
With good connections to Barcelona and Girona, a wide range of family-friendly accommodation, and a clear commitment to sustainability backed by the Barcelona Destination Sustainable Tourism Commitment, Malgrat de Mar is consolidating itself as a destination that goes beyond just sun and beach tourism. It’s a town that invites you to rediscover and enjoy it all year round.
