Cadaqués

Cadaqués is a former fishing village set on a bay in the middle of the Cap de Creus peninsula on Spain’s Costa Brava. With a population of around 3,000 the economy of the town is now primarily driven by tourism. The drive to Cadaqués from Barcelona is only about two and a half hours, making it a popular weekend destination.

Surrealist painter Salvador Dalí came from nearby Figueres and often visited Cadaqués in his childhood. Dalí later kept a home in Port Lligat, a short drive from Cadaqués.

Many other famous artists have visited or had ties with the town, including Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, Marcel Duchamp, Richard Hamilton, Albert Ràfols-Casamada, Antoni Pitxot, Henri-François Rey, Melina Mercouri and Maurice Boitel.

During the winter months, Cadaqués can experience the Tramuntana, a strong, cold wind that blows down from the Pyrenees, similar to the Mistral in France. This katabatic wind can reach speeds exceeding 100 km/h, shaping the rugged landscape and creating a wild, invigorating atmosphere along the Costa Brava.

The Tramuntana is known for clearing the skies to a deep blue and is often associated with a sharp, crisp climate. It can blow persistently for several days, sometimes up to a week, and has a powerful presence in the region’s weather and culture. Notably, Cadaqués is mentioned in Gabriel García Márquez’s story “Tramontana,” highlighting the wind’s significance beyond just meteorology.

Things to Do

Explore the Old Town

Wander through the narrow, winding, cobblestone streets lined with white houses and bougainvillea. The Old Town offers a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and discover hidden gems.

Once a fortified fishing village surrounded by walls, the only remnants of the ancient bastion remaining today are integrated into the Town Hall. The streets feature the distinctive “rastell” pavement—handmade slate stones arranged in a herringbone pattern designed to absorb water and prevent slipping, best preserved on El Call Street.

The old town’s architecture blends medieval, Gothic, Baroque, and modernist influences, with notable buildings such as the neoclassical Casino de la Amistat and Casa Rahola, as well as modernist houses inspired by Cuban styles along the seafront.

Visit Salvador Dalí’s House-Museum

The connection between Cadaques and Dalí is evident, with a seafront statue of the artist serving as a focal point. Located in nearby Portlligat, Dalí’s former residence is now a museum showcasing the artist’s life and work.

Salvador Dalí’s House-Museum is a unique and intimate window into the life and creative world of the renowned surrealist artist. Originally a modest fisherman’s hut, Dalí and his wife Gala transformed the property over decades into a labyrinthine residence, blending quirky surrealism with Mediterranean charm. 

The house, where Dalí lived and worked from 1930 until 1982, is filled with personal mementos, outlandish décor, and an eclectic mix of objects, all reflecting his artistic vision and eccentric personality. Visitors can explore Dalí’s studio, still equipped with his tools, as well as the private living spaces, gardens adorned with surrealist sculptures, and panoramic windows framing the iconic Portlligat bay. 

Preserved almost exactly as Dalí left it, the museum offers an immersive experience, allowing guests to walk through the spaces where masterpieces were conceived. Save time and book tickets online here.

Admire the Església de Santa María

The Església de Santa María in Cadaqués stands majestically at the highest point of the old town, offering sweeping views over the bay and the Mediterranean. Its origins trace back to a 13th-century temple, but the current structure was built after pirate raids destroyed the original church in the mid-16th century.

The reconstruction, funded by the local fishing community, began in the late Gothic style and was completed in the 18th century, resulting in a single-nave building with side chapels and a polygonal chancel. The church’s most remarkable feature is its monumental Baroque altarpiece, created by Pau Costa and Joan Torras in the 18th century, which stands 23 meters high and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary—Verge de l’Esperança.

The whitewashed façade, crowned by a distinctive bell tower, harmonizes with the town’s iconic architecture, while the interior preserves other treasures such as a historic organ from the late 17th century and several smaller Baroque altarpieces. Beyond its architectural and artistic significance, Església de Santa María remains a symbol of the town’s resilience and communal spirit, deeply woven into the cultural and spiritual heritage of Cadaqués.

Enjoy the Beaches and Coves

While Cadaqués’ beaches are small and pebbly, they offer crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. For a more secluded experience, explore the hidden coves (calas) west of the city.

Hike to Far de Cala Nans

This beautiful hike offers stunning views of Cadaqués and takes about 2 hours round trip.

Art and Culture

Cadaqués has a rich artistic heritage, having attracted notable figures like Picasso, Man Ray, and Einstein. Today, the town continues to be an artistic hub with numerous galleries and studios.

Dining and Nightlife

Sample the local cuisine, which blends Catalan, Spanish, and French influences with fresh seafood. Try specialties like Arros Negre and Taps Dolcos. For a special experience, consider the tasting menu at Es Balconet.

In the evening, enjoy a drink at one of the bars along the bay, taking in the beautiful views.

Shopping

Explore the town’s charming boutiques and shops:

• Ceràmiques Joaquim Saló for handmade ceramics.
• S’espardenya de Cadaqués for traditional espadrilles.
• Mo Cadaqués for stylish fashion and homeware.

Dalí’s house in Port Lligat has been converted into the Casa-Museo Salvador Dalí. The photo above shows the view out to sea from the house. Both the bay and the island have been represented in several of Dalí’s paintings, including The Madonna of Port Lligat, Crucifixion (Corpus Hypercubus), and The Sacrament of the Last Supper.

Where to Stay

Cadaqués offers a range of accommodation options, from chic boutique hotels in the town center to family-friendly villa-style hotels and tranquil, adults-only escapes set in the hills.

Luxury

• Hotel Playa Sol A four-star hotel located on the seafront, offering access to a quiet beach and spectacular views of the sea and town. The hotel provides renovated rooms and a heated outdoor pool.
• Hotel Villa Gala Each room or suite at this 4-star boutique hotel has a terrace with views over Cadaqués and the sea. Guests can also enjoy an outdoor swimming pool and private garden.

Mid-Range

• Hotel Octavia Comfortable rooms near the center.
• Hotel S’Aguarda Panoramic views of the bay.

Budget

• Hostal Marina Simple but clean accommodation.
• Hotel Can Pepin A family-run, two-star hotel situated in the center of Cadaqués, approximately 150 meters from the beach.

Best Time to Visit

While Cadaqués is beautiful year-round, it’s worth noting that the population can increase tenfold during summer months. Consider visiting in the shoulder seasons for a more relaxed experience.

Getting There

The best options to reach Cadaqués are by car or by bus as there is no train that goes to the town. The town can be reached by bus from Figueres or from Barcelona (‘Nord’ Bus Station). To get to the town by land, you must drive through winding hill roads. Its relative isolation has helped preserve its unique character and charm.

Final Thoughts

Cadaqués offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, this enchanting town has something for everyone.

🐉 See also: Hike from Cadaqués to Far de Calanans, Prettiest Towns in Catalonia