Being that Olively celebrates all things Catalunya, we wanted to bring you a local expert’s guidance as to all the Costa Brava has to offer. For this reason we have partnered with Costa Brava Hotspots for a breakdown of food, drinks and what areas are definitely worth a visit…although it is hard to narrow it down to just a few. First though, we wanted to get to know our go-to Costa Brava guide a little better.
Lina ter Hennepe was well travelled from a young age. Having been born in France and four years later moving to the Netherlands and later exploring the city of Amsterdam whilst studying. As she grew up, Lina has been visiting Costa Brava since she was little and came to love it.
Having lived many years in Amsterdam, Lina found there were so many e-guides and blogs on where to go and what to eat. She did, however, notice a hole in the market when it came to Costa Brava and Catalunya. Lina remembers always having loved food, restaurants and discovering new hotspots, so it seemed only natural that this would become her dream job.
The business began to grow with time over the early days of Covid-19 and Lina grew a community of people also passionate about travel and exploring Costa Brava.
When discussing the food culture surrounding Costa Brava, Lina says, “I think gastronomy is so important during your vacation time. It’s the one moment to learn traditions and enjoy the cuisine of another culture. To meet people from there and to try their dishes at home! Trust me, I tried to make Paella and I still fail. But it’s about the idea.”
Lina has detailed some of her favourite local spots along Costa Brava for you to check out this summer.
Clara Restaurant in Begur - This restaurant is situated in the beautiful hotel Aiguaclara which is in the centre of Begur. Coming as strangers, and leaving as friends would be the best way to describe Clara Restaurant.
The variety of the food is great for those who want to taste lots of different dishes. And with each dish, you'll experience that wow factor. From traditional tapas like croquettes and tortilla de bacalao to fancy tapas like the oysters in ponzu sauce, there wasn't one that disappointed us. While you dine you can also enjoy a fantastic atmosphere complemented with their jazzy music selection.
Far Nomo in Llafranc - Located in the emblematic Far de Sant Sebastià, between the coasts of Llafranc and Tamariu (Costa Brava), Far Nomo presents one of the best fusion cuisines. This is probably the best place for a stylish and sunny lunch or a romantic dinner at sunset. Have dinner with spectacular views and you will enjoy this unique experience for sure. The menu is filled with authentic fusion dishes made with a modern Mediterranean twist.
Soca-rel in Llofriu - A favourite for many is SOCA-REL in Llofriu near Palafrugell. Here you will find everything we like in one place: sun, great food and a beautiful environment. This restaurant is perfect for a sunny Sunday and great in both summer and winter.
Ultramar in L’Escala - This beautiful restaurant has won a place in the heart of many visitors to L’Escala, many of whom return again for another round of the best cocktails accompanied by great music. A cocktail bar, restaurant, and jazz club, Ultramar is the best place to enjoy your evening in L’Escala.
Carbo in Begur - Most towns in Costa Brava region feel typically Spanish or Catalan in their look or feel, but the picturesque town of Begur shows something different in its Cuban-style architecture and culture. It's an excellent plan to wander through the old town of Begur and have lunch at Carbó Begur. Try different sorts of tapas while sitting in a really unique setting.
This place, the building and the environment give you a feeling of being in an old townhouse in Havana, Cuba. Another plus: it has a beautiful terrace that overlooks a square. This makes it a very romantic place and perfect for couples on a date night.
If you fancy an ocean dip during your Costa Brava travels, these are some favourites…
- Aiguablava
- Cala de S’alguer
- Platja Fonda
- Platja de Tamariu
- Cala Sa Tuna
When we asked Lina what she loved most about Costa Brava, she said, “The magic that it has with almost every village, the slow life, the beautiful Mediterranean sea and all the beautiful hotspots it has!”. You can discover these hotspots and much more on Lina’s website Costa Brava Hotspots and on Instagram.