10 Best Things to Do in Roses

La Punta is one of the main urban beaches in Roses, with around 550 meters of sandy shoreline. Set close to the fishing port, you can enjoy a day at the beach while within walking distance of the center of town.

La Punta is popular during the peak season, especially with families. Everything you need for a day out on the beach can be found here, from lounge chairs, sunshades and restroom amenities to pedalboat and kayak rentals. There are plenty of drinks and ice cream stands, along with restaurants if you need a quick refuel before continuing to work on your tan.

A hike from Roses to Cala Montjoi offers beautiful landscapes through the Natural Park of Cap de Creus. This 2-part walking trail skims the coastline along the Costa Brava. Most of the trail is at water level, tempting you to take a dip to cool off in the summer heat.

The path will take around 4-5 hours to complete (one way), beginning at the lighthouse of Roses. The first section takes you from Roses to Almadraba, a beautiful bay with crystal clear waters and a sandy beach. The second stretch is a little more challenging, passing through pine forests and several coves before finishing at Cala Montjoi.

Discover an impressive megalithic complex on the Cap de Creus mountains. The site is one of the most complete megalithic sites in Costa Brava. One of its most outstanding landmarks is Dolmen de la Creu de Cobertella, an enormous prehistoric funeral monument dating back to 3,000 BC.

You can explore this complex of dolmens, menhirs (standing stones), cists and petroglyphs on your own. If you prefer to delve deeper into its history, the local tourist office organizes guided tours covering 2 km of the megalithic site.

The massive fortress of Roses, La Ciudadela, is one of Costa Brava's most famous and visited monuments. Once a trading center, it hosted Roman, Greek and Visigothic settlements. The site dates as far back as the 4th century BC.

During the 11th century, a wall was added to protect the monastery of Santa Maria de Roses. Further additions were made to protect La Ciudadela against pirate attacks. You can join a guided tour of the fortress walls and facilities.

Cala Murtra offers a secluded getaway from the crowds of the urban beaches of Roses. Located around 7 km southeast of central Roses, you can easily get to the horseshoe bay by traveling on Cala Montjoi road. The remote beach lacks modern conveniences such as bars and restaurants, so it’s a good idea to pack a picnic before heading there.

Cala Murtra’s surface is mostly pebbly, unlike some of the sandier beaches of Roses. Its aquamarine waters offer an excellent opportunity for swimming, while rugged cliffs and pine forests surrounding the cove result in a secluded atmosphere.

Trinidad Castle is a beautiful 16th-century fortification with an irregular star-shaped floor plan atop Poncella. It once accommodated up to 350 men along with ammunition to withstand long sieges. In 2002, the renaissance castle underwent restoration after most of it was destroyed during the War of Independence.

A visit to Trinidad Castle will reveal its significant role in Roses, mostly through its exhibition of old photographs of Roses and the Costa Brava. One of the most splendid features you can enjoy while touring the premises, especially at sunset, is the panoramic view of the Bay of Roses.

Strolling along the extensive promenade of Roses can be one of the best things you can do close to the center of town. Lined with restaurants and sculptures alongside 2 ports (one for fishing and the other for yachts), the promenade offers brilliant views across the Mediterranean. Roses is a comfortable seaside town that enjoys natural beauty in a relaxed and warm atmosphere.

There are several points of interest along the promenade, including 2 naval artillery guns and a Roman anchor. Make the most out of Roses’ cooler temperatures with an evening walk before settling into one of the restaurants for dinner.

A day at the Cabo de Creus National Park often results in stunning vistas and a sense of seclusion. The landscape is dramatic and captivating, with rock formations shaped by wind and the sea. This spot is where the Pyrenees meet the Mediterranean.

Take your time exploring idyllic beaches such as Cala Culleró and Cala Jugadora, both of which have inspired renowned artist Salvador Dalí. Take a dip in the sea that skirts the rugged coastline and walk along pathways that crisscross the national park.

Castillo Perelada has a wine museum where you can uncover the ancient art of winemaking that dates back to the Middle Ages. Located within the castle’s monastery, it has elements of the original wine cellar and a collection of historical pieces on winemaking throughout history.

Beyond its wine-producing origins, Castilla Perelada is a stunning architectural emblem of the Empordà. With 2 impressive towers at its east wing, the castle sits beside a picturesque lake. Enjoy a pleasant stroll of the grounds and bask in the divine surroundings. Castillo Perelada is within a 25-minute drive from the center of Roses.

Located next to Port de Roses, La Nova is separated from the town’s main beach by a double breakwater near Ginjolers River. You can find around 450 meters of fine sand to lay down your towel for a day of sunbathing in Roses.

The beach is within walking distance of many restaurants and bars if you want to refuel throughout the day. La Nova also has all the essential facilities for a fun beach day, including lifeguards, shower and restroom amenities, as well as hammock and boat for rent. The beach offers a range of ramps and walkways for those with limited mobility.