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- Destinations
- Europe
- Spain
- Costa Brava
- Blanes
Blanes
The most southerly holiday resort on the Costa Brava, Blanes not
only attracts international tourists but is also frequented by
large numbers of Spanish holidaymakers. Like most coastal towns
Blanes has grown from a picturesque fishing village to tourist
boomtown. The resort has a two-mile (3km) long stretch of coastline
offering sandy bays and rocky coves, the main beachfront is lined
with high-rise hotels and apartment blocks.
Behind the seafront the town still retains some reminders of its
past, like the medieval castle of St Joan, several churches and
other ancient buildings, which attract hundreds of holidaymakers
each year. Pride of the town are two renowned botanical gardens,
which boast thousands of plant species. Along with all the
trappings of modern tourism, Blanes also prides itself in giving
visitors a taste of the real Spain, offering traditional street
markets, several fiestas and folk dancing fairs.
Information & Facts
Activities
Visit the renowned Marimirtra Botanical Gardens. Take the kids
to the Waterworld (Europe's biggest waterpark) near Lloret del Mar,
or to Marineland, a short drive south of Blanes. Barcelona, 60miles
(100km) south, is close enough for a day trip.
Language
Spanish is the official language, but English is widely
understood in areas frequented by tourists. Catalan, Galician and
Basque are spoken in the relevant areas.
Money
Spain's official currency is the Euro (EUR). One Euro is divided
into 100 cents. Money can be exchanged at bureaux de change and
major hotels, but banks give the best rates. All major credit cards
and travellers cheques are widely accepted at most hotels,
restaurants, and shops. ATMs are widespread and are generally the
cheapest and most convenient method of obtaining money.
Negatives
On peak summer days the beach and promenade gets very full.
Night Life
Although Blanes is not known for its nightlife, there are
several British-themed pubs and some decent bars that stay open
till late, but for quality nightlife visitors should head up the
coast to Lloret. That being said, at the end of July each year
Blanes hosts the Costa Brava International Fireworks Contest, the
seaside town comes alive with fiestas lasting late into the
night.
Restaurants
There are over 150 restaurants in Blanes, many located along the
promenade. Locals tend to frequent the smaller eateries behind the
promenade. Try the tapas at Café Terrassan near the corner of
Passeig de Dintre - widely considered the best in town. In general,
fresh seafood is the best bet to order, as are local Catalan
dishes.
Shopping
There are over 700 shops in Blanes, from boutiques and
supermarkets to small, traditional retailers. The Monday morning
market at Passeig de Mar is the best place to buy souvenirs and
various cheap clothing. Every afternoon, local fishermen sell off
the day's catch here. The daily Municipal Market in Mas Enlaire is
also worth a look for groceries and fresh goods.
Time
Local time is GMT +1 (GMT +2 between the last Sunday in March
and the Saturday before the last Sunday in October). The Canary
Islands: GMT (GMT +1 in summer).