Hidden Gem: L'Escala, the Underrated Town on the Spain-France Border

When planning a holiday, many people choose well-known destinations like bustling cities or popular beach resorts. While these places are famous for good reasons, exploring lesser-known spots can offer a more authentic and quieter experience.

Europe is dotted with beautiful, lesser-known destinations. One such gem is L'Escala, a charming Spanish beach town near the French border. Located just 50 minutes from France in Catalonia, L'Escala provides an inspiring yet relaxing getaway.

Originally a fishing port, L'Escala is famous for its anchovies and still has a working fleet today. Modern visitors, however, are drawn to its beautiful beaches and stunning turquoise waters.

Travel blog iEscape describes L'Escala as a "fashionable seaside retreat" and lists it among Europe's best beach towns. The blog highlights the town's recent development into a trendy destination due to its pretty beaches and clear, pristine waters. The old town features quaint cafes, boutique patisseries, and trendy restaurants that spill onto the streets, creating a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.

The main beach, Riells, is ideal for safe swimming. For a quieter option, Empúries Beach fronts an ancient Greco-Roman archaeological site, the oldest of its kind in Spain. The area is also popular for diving, with several good dive sites and wrecks just off the coast. Visitors can explore hidden coves by jet ski or glass-bottom boat, adding to the adventure.

According to Spain-holiday.com, locals would like to keep L'Escala a secret. However, independent holidaymakers are beginning to discover its charm. The site praises L'Escala as a wonderful place to stay, rich in history and close to some of Costa Brava's most beautiful family-friendly beaches. The town boasts a continuous sandy beach stretching north for about 20 kilometers, with stunning coves and bays perfect for exploring and snorkeling.

L'Escala is conveniently located just under two hours from Barcelona and 45 minutes from the city of Girona, both of which have international airports, making it easily accessible for travelers.