L’Escala: Coastal Routes, Culture and Anchovies

The following places and activities can be grouped according to whether you are more interested in routes and beaches, historical connections or local food culture.

Coastal scenery and routes

The Litoral Route follows the coast of l’Escala, connecting built-up areas with natural landscapes. Along the way, it passes sandy beaches, coves, the old town and newer neighbourhoods such as Riells and Punta Montgó. It is 14.80 kilometres long, has a moderate difficulty level and takes about two hours by bike. This route description also notes that some sections cannot be cycled. Take this limitation into account along with the approximate duration when planning your time; terrain and cycling conditions may vary.

The Camí de Ronda pel poble is a linear route from Cala Montgó to Sant Martí d’Empúries and includes a section of the GR-92. Several bunkers from the area’s former military use can still be seen among the pine trees. The named start and end points give this route a clear direction, while the bunkers add a visible historical dimension to the walk.

At Rec del Molí, different coastal landscapes meet: the beach has fine sand, dunes and rocky scenery. Its features also include abundant underwater fauna. The beach’s character therefore extends beyond its sandy shore to include both the landscape on land and the underwater world.

Archaeology, salt and fishing

The Empúries Archaeology Museum preserves the original sculpture of Asclepius discovered at the archaeological site. The Museu de l’Anxova i la Sal (MASLE) offers a different historical connection: it is housed in l’Escala’s former slaughterhouse, a building dating from 1913. The museum’s name itself points to anchovies and salt as its themes. The Alfolí de la Sal adds to this connection with the history of salt: the building was constructed in 1697 as l’Escala’s large salt warehouse.

The Centre d'interpretació del peix (MARAM) is an interactive interpretation centre about the everyday lives of fishermen. Its themes include boats, traditional fishing methods and fish auctions. Group visits are available by prior reservation outside the other regular visiting times. If you are planning a group visit, arrange your reservation in advance.

Anchovies as part of local food culture

A guided tour combines the history of l’Escala and its defence against pirates with an anchovy tasting: the Ruta marinera + tastet d'anxoves brings these themes together with a boat trip. Storytelling and tasting are therefore both central to the tour. You can check reservation information when planning.

Anchovies are also part of the local food scene. Anchovies from l’Escala are traditionally served in all the municipality’s bars and restaurants with pa amb tomata or as creative tapas. Together with the museums and guided boat tour, they offer a distinct way to explore the fishing and anchovy tradition: through its history, its practical significance in fishermen’s daily lives and its role in food culture.

Discover more destinations: Les Corts, Agullana, Planoles, Camós, Crespià, Palafrugell, Pont De Molins, Rupià

For the overview of the wider region: Girona.