Why it’s worth traveling for…
Set on a rocky, cliff-lined pocket of the Catalonian coast overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Hostal de la Gavina — a byword for Costa Brava luxury since the 1920s — exudes old-world Spanish glamor and romance. Owned and operated by the fourth-generation Ensesa family, the grand palace hotel has welcomed Spanish royalty, heads of state, Hollywood legends, and musicians. The hotel features a terracotta roof, and verdant gardens surrounded by fragrant pine forests, hidden bays, and winding coastal paths. A large seawater pool, enveloped by Grecian statues, overlooks Sant Pol Bay’s turquoise seas dotted with sailing boats and yachts; while interiors pay homage to the splendor of classical European design with Murano glass lamps, Sevres vases, 17th-century Bargueno desks, and Italian marble bathrooms. Dining is superb with Michelin-starred Chef Romain Fornell (who oversees the hotel’s three restaurants) putting Hostal de la Gavina on the map as a foodie destination. Walk to Sant Pol Beach, just steps from the hotel, or for more picturesque coves and secluded bays like Sa Conca beach, explore the spectacular Camino de Ronda coastal walking path.
THE DETAILS
Address:
17248 S’Agaró (Costa Brava)
Girona, España
Website:
Contact:
+ 34 972 32 11 00
Social:
Getting there:
Hostal de La Gavina is located one hour north of Barcelona. The closest airport — Girona-Costa Brava — is a 30-minute drive from the hotel.
Curated Experience
Visit one of the three Salvador Dali museums, stroll the cobblestone streets of Girona, and step back in time with a visit to the ancient Greco/Roman ruins. Dine your way along the region’s gastronomic trail — with no fewer than 12 Michelin starred restaurants. Return to relax on the beach or by the pool, dip into the spa for a signature Valmont facial, and partake in the perfume experience, delving into Catalonia’s long tradition of cosmetic production.
THE HIGHLIGHTS
Style
Great Estate, Historic Building, Elegant
Vibe
Sophisticated, Tranquil, Romantic
Setting
Coastal, Secluded
Rooms
74
Eat
Candlelight (Exquisite haute cuisine by Romain Fornell Michelin Star holder for Caelis in Barcelona. The wine cellar holds over 200 wines; dine on the intimate and very romantic outdoor terrace, with live piano music)
The Garbi (Poolside restaurant serving light, fresh Mediterranean dishes — fresh fish, rice dishes, salads. Don’t miss the famous dessert cart with homemade cakes)
La Taverna del Mar (Beach restaurant located on Sant Pol Beach, featuring fresh Mediterranean wild-caught fish, seafood, and rice dishes, with a stunning sea view)
Drink
El Barco Bar (A historic masterpiece and favorite haunt of Hollywood artists and celebrities. Wood-paneled, ocean-liner style design, and perfect for a late-night tipple)
La Taverna del Mar (Beach club and chill-out bar known for its classic cocktails, negroni, martinis and mojitos
Wellness
Spa by Valmont (Featuring Valmont signature treatments and beauty products; enjoy too the pool, whirlpool, hammam, and sauna)
Stunning outdoor swimming pool (Set high above the Mediterranean, featuring 1960s architecture and private rental cabanas)
Fully equipped gym
Yoga (Range of classes including hatha, nidra, integral, ashtanga, and vini, Pilates, and personal training)
Tennis (Two magnificent clay courts and two paddle tennis courts)
Standouts
- Expansive and magnificent hotel gardens and outdoor spaces with views of the Mediterranean Sea
- Rooms and suites form an important part of the historical and artistic heritage of the hotel; reserve a signature Superior Double Seaview room with terrace for the best views from the hotel
- Historic walking path of Camino de Ronda surrounds the property and stretches along the Costa Brava’s spectacular coastline
