The beautiful Costa Brava town that hides a water park with waterfalls and friendly dolphins

The Costa Brava is full of charming little towns that captivate all who visit them. Tossa de Mar, Cadaqués, Tamariu, Callela de Palafrugell, and Blanes are some of the best-known towns along the Girona coast, and just a few kilometers from the latter, on the edge of this region on the Mediterranean, lies a town that often goes unnoticed by tourists but is ideal for spending summer holidays with the family.

This is the beautiful town of Palafolls, a town of almost 10,000 inhabitants located in the province of Barcelona (although bordering Girona), which is home to some truly unique gems in its historic center. Although it's not located right by the sea, it's an ideal destination for the summer months, just five kilometers from the crystal-clear Mediterranean waters and boasting one of the best water parks in all of Catalonia.

What to see in Palafolls, the hidden treasure of the Costa Brava

Palafolls is undoubtedly one of the most special towns in the Maresme region. Located on the northwestern edge of the region and crossed by the Tordera River, this town has been one of the most important in the entire area for many centuries, as evidenced by its extraordinary architectural heritage, which includes its magnificent and impressive castle.

The fort, built in the 13th century on a 200-meter-high hill near the town center, has dominated the municipality ever since, although other gems can also be found in the historic center, such as the Church of Santa Maria Assumpta. At first glance, it might not seem like a particularly attractive place for children, who are not very familiar with architecture and history, but in the town itself, there is a marvel that will captivate them (as well as adults).

Marineland Catalunya: a water park with dolphins

Just outside the town is the Marineland Catalunya water park, one of the best in the entire autonomous community. Here, both young and old can enjoy incredible attractions to cool off on the hottest summer days, as well as magnificent pools and waterfalls. However, what attracts visitors the most is something much more special: the dolphins.

The complex hosts numerous exhibitions featuring these animals, which you can also learn about, making this park a fantastic option for the whole family to visit and have a fun experience this summer. One-day tickets cost 32 euros and can be purchased through their website.

How to get to Palafolls

The town of Palafolls is located just an hour from Barcelona, and to get there from Barcelona, simply take the C-32 motorway and, just before reaching the town, exit onto the N-II motorway and take the detour onto the B-862. It's also just 40 minutes by road from the city of Girona, from which you can reach it by taking the A-2 and N-II motorways, then turning onto the GI-600 and GI-682, which lead to the town center.