Camí de Ronda, Lloret de Mar, Catalonia, Spain

Camí de Ronda, Lloret de Mar, Catalonia, Spain

From the cliffs of Lloret de Mar in Girona, Catalonia, the Camí de Ronda winds along the Costa Brava, a coastline true to its name: wild, rugged and full of surprises. This historic route passes hidden coves, rocky outcrops battered by the Mediterranean and pine forests that reach almost to the sea. It was originally established so that customs officers could patrol the coastline and help prevent smuggling. Today, it is considered one of the most spectacular coastal walks in Spain.

Between Blanes and Portbou, the path alternates between wide-open horizon views and descents to beaches with waters so turquoise they seem almost dreamlike. In August, the evening light often turns the rocks a golden ochre, while gulls glide above a sea that shifts from deep blue to green depending on the depth of the water. Few Mediterranean routes combine history, nature and the simple pleasure of walking with no destination beyond the next headland so successfully.