A walk through the history of Rosas and its wonderful bay

The town of Rosas has an exciting history and is located in a privileged and unique environment on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. The symbiosis between its rich cultural and historical past and its natural landscapes that have overwhelming beauty, make this town one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Costa Brava. 

The first human settlements in Rosas date back to the Neolithic period. However, it was not until the 4th century BC when it was founded under the name of Rhode by the Greeks who came from Massalia (Marseille). A little more than a century later the Romans populated it and after them the Visigoths, leaving an important legacy that still lasts. 

This beautiful Girona municipality with approximately 20,000 inhabitants is located on the northeastern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, in the Catalan region of Alto Ampurdán. Its strategic geographical location, straddling the sea and the Pyrenees and just 30 kilometers from the border with France, has historically served as a gateway to Spain. In addition, it has a very pleasant climate with mild winters and not too hot summers. 

What to see and visit in Rosas

Much of its spell revolves around the enchanting bay of Rosas, which is part of the exclusive and small group of the most beautiful bays in the world. Located between two of the most important natural parks in Catalonia, such as Cap de Creus and the Ampurdán marshes (Aiguamolls de l'Empordà), it proudly boasts its captivating Mediterranean and seafaring essence.

A visit to the Citadel of Rosas is essential to know the origin of this town and the evolution of the civilizations that have inhabited these lands. Built in medieval times as a fortified enclosure to defend against invaders, it contains important archaeological sites with more than 25 centuries of history. 

Another inescapable tourist spot is to make a stop at the castle of La Trinidad. This unique building, built in 1508 in the shape of a five-pointed star and located at the Punta de la Poncella, next to the Rosas lighthouse, offers the most spectacular views of the natural refuge of Rosas Bay.  

Also, Rosas has a beautiful old town. It is worth discovering its narrow irregular streets, parallel to the sea and full of shops, bars and restaurants, where you can taste a succulent fish suquet, the traditional dish of the region. Although the area is also internationally recognized for its prestigious products, such as fresh fish and seafood, its extraordinary olive oil, vegetables and fruits from the garden, select meats and wines under the name of Empordà origin, which have a great reputation. 

Flanked by two important ports

A few steps from the old town is the most important fishing port on the north coast of Catalonia by number of catches and living testimony of the strong fishing tradition of the population. 

On the other side, at the end of Santa Margarita beach and at the mouth of the river Grau, there is a modern marina inaugurated in 2004 - Santa Margarita. It is located in a privileged location, surrounded by a great labyrinth of navigable channels where recreational boats have moorings in front of housing estates with luxurious chalets and residences, similar to the neighboring town of Ampuriabrava. 

It is not surprising then that, in recent years, many foreigners have established their second residence here, since the purchase of houses in Rosas has grown exponentially mainly due to the quality of the infrastructures and its particular quiet and peaceful lifestyle. Visit the property for sale in Rosas that you have always dreamed of! 

Things to do in Rosas

Undoubtedly, most of the visitors who come to the town do so attracted by its excellent beaches. In front of the promenade, in the urban center, is located the Rosas beach, the most familiar, extensive and crowded of all, with about 2 kilometers of coastline.

Many travelers also choose Rosas as a destination for cycling, hiking or various water sports throughout the year. The region is a paradise for all lovers of these modalities, as it is located in a dreamy enclave full of charm.

The best way to get to know the coastline of the Costa Brava and the Gulf of Rosas is by walking its coastal paths known as Caminos de Ronda. From these beautiful routes you can glimpse exciting sunrises and sunsets, discover the value of an incalculable landscape surrounded by secluded coves, marvel at the vertiginous cliffs, feel the powerful tramuntana wind, enter the sea with crystal clear waters, admire the rocks of unlikely shapes or the sand of the beaches and rest under the Mediterranean pine trees with their characteristic aroma. In short, enjoy nature in its purest form!

One of the most spectacular coastal paths there is is the one that goes from Rosas to Cala Montjoi. The route has a distance of 9.5 kilometers and passes through the Natural Park of Cabo de Creus, crossing the Almadraba beach, and ending in Cala Montjoi. This last cove is known for hosting one of the most famous restaurants in history, El Bulli bythe famous Catalan chef, Ferran Adrià. El Bulli closed its doors in 2011, but Adrià has already announced that he is returning to Cala Montjoi and will soon open a gastronomic exhibition and research center in this sensational location on the Costa Brava.

Do you want to buy a property in Rosas to spend a few months of holidays during the year or to settle there permanently? Please contact our real estate agency in Rosas and we will help you find the apartment, house or villa of your dreams.